Scientific NameMalus domesticaGeneral InformationApple trees are deciduous, attractive trees native to central Asia and cultivated worldwide. There are hundreds of cultivars, including many familiar names like 'Fuji' and 'Granny Smith.' Most apples need 500 to 1,000 chill hours in winter, although some…
Scientific NamePrunus armeniacaGeneral InformationApricots bloom in February and early March, which can coincide with cold rain storms. As a result, consistent crops are unlikely in Marin. However, when one does get a crop it's worth the wait. Apricots perform best where spring weather is dry. They are…
Scientific NameRubus sppGeneral InformationBlackberries and raspberries are deciduous vines that do best when trellised. Boysenberries are a hybrid cross of blackberries and raspberries. These plants have perennial roots and biennial shoots or canes that give us fruit in the second year.When to…
Scientific NameVaccinium sppGeneral InformationBlueberries belong to the Ericaceae family, which includes azaleas and rhododendrons. They have pinkish flowers in the spring, berries in summer, and often brilliant red and yellow foliage in the fall.Blueberries have pinkish flowers in the spring, berries…
Scientific NamePrunus avium (sweet) Prunus cerasus (sour)General InformationCherries are deciduous trees available in sweet (for fresh eating) or sour (for preserving or jams) varieties. Most require between 600 to 900 chill hours (below 45 degrees Fahrenheit). High temperatures contribute to…
Scientific NameCitrus spp.General InformationCitrus are evergreen shrubs or trees native to Asia and belong to the Rutaceae family. One of California’s most common backyard fruit trees.When to PlantCitrus can be planted any time of the year in frost-free zones. Otherwise, plant in spring…
Scientific NameFicus caricaGeneral InformationFig trees are deciduous, easily-grown, and don't require pollination to yield fruit. Most bear two crops per year: early summer and late summer/early fall. Native to western Asia and eastern Mediterranean, figs thrive in warm climates but also grow in more…
Scientific NameVitis vinifera (wine grapes) Vitis labrusca (table grapes)General InformationGrapes are divided into table grapes and wine grapes. Many varieties available. Some have multiple or secondary uses, ie juices or jellies. Hybrids are typically grown for table grapes, juice, or jelly…
Scientific NameOlea europeaGeneral InformationThe olive is a subtropical evergreen tree with gray-green elongated leaves that are hairy on the undersides to slow the rate of transpiration -- a useful trait in dry climates. Most olives are grown for their edible fruit, but fruitless varieties are…
Scientific Name(Prunus persica)General InformationKnown as the “queen” of summer fruit, peaches feature fuzzy skin and sweet juicy yellow or white flesh. The trees are easily grown. Peach trees are self-fruiting, with flowers borne on one year old shoots. The trees can live for up to 20 years and adapt…
