Nectarine Prunus persica var. nectarina 'Lord Napier' (F)
ABOUT
The 'Lord Napier' nectarine is a variety of fruit tree that produces smooth-skinned fruit, akin to peaches but without the fuzz. The tree blooms with beautiful flowers early in the spring, often in shades of pink, which adds ornamental value before the leaves fully unfurl. The leaves are lance-shaped, with a pointed end and usually a glossy green hue, forming a pleasing foliage backdrop for the blossoms and fruit. As the season progresses, the flowers give way to the nectarines. The fruit is typically characterized by its vibrant red to yellow skin, which can be mottled or blushed, depending on sunlight and ripeness. The flesh of the 'Lord Napier' nectarine is usually white or yellow, known for being juicy, sweet, and richly flavored, with a singular stone or pit in the center. Throughout the growing season, the tree maintains a lush appearance, with its leaves and branches creating a canopy that is not only functional for fruit production but also aesthetically pleasing. The overall visual appeal of the 'Lord Napier' nectarine tree is a combination of its attractive spring blossoms, green foliage, and colorful, appetizing fruit.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Lord Napier Nectarine, Nectarine 'Lord Napier'
Common names
Prunus persica var. nectarina 'Lord Napier'.
ToxicityTo humans
The most common common name for Prunus persica var. nectarina 'Lord Napier' (F) is nectarine. Nectarines themselves are not toxic to humans and are in fact edible and nutritious. However, like other members of the Prunus genus, the plant contains cyanogenic glycosides, primarily in the leaves, stems, and seeds (pits). If ingested in large enough quantities, these glycosides can hydrolyze to release cyanide and may lead to cyanide poisoning. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and possible convulsions and loss of consciousness in severe cases, which can be lethal. It is important to avoid consuming the pits, leaves, and stems of the plant.
To pets
The most common common name for Prunus persica var. nectarina 'Lord Napier' (F) is nectarine. Similar to their toxicity in humans, the nectarine flesh is not toxic to pets, but the pits, leaves, and stems contain cyanogenic glycosides which can be harmful. If pets ingest these parts, they may be at risk of cyanide poisoning. Symptoms in pets can include dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, panting, and shock. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to seizures, coma, and even death. Care should be taken to ensure pets do not have access to the pits or parts of the plant that contain these compounds.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
12-15 feet [3.7-4.6 meters]
Spread
10-12 feet [3-3.7 meters]
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Ornamental: The Nectarine 'Lord Napier' is known for its beautiful pink blossoms in spring, which provide ornamental value in landscaping.
- Fresh Fruit Production: It produces delicious nectarines that can be eaten fresh, adding to homegrown food sources.
- Shade Provider: As a fruit tree, it can offer shade in gardens and outdoor spaces during the warm months.
- Pollinator-friendly: The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers a change in landscape with seasonal blossoms, fruit, and autumn leaf color.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can be fairly drought-tolerant, requiring less water compared to other plants.
- Home Value Increase: Fruit trees like the Nectarine 'Lord Napier' can increase property value by enhancing the aesthetic of the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Nectarine wood can be used for smoking meats, imparting a sweet and fruity flavor similar to other fruitwoods like apple or cherry.
- The blossoms can be used as a natural decorative element in salads or as edible garnishes on desserts.
- Nectarine leaves can be steeped to make teas, which are enjoyed for their unique flavor.
- When dried, the petals and blossoms of nectarines can be used in potpourri to add a pleasant aroma to indoor spaces.
- Nectarines can be pureed and used as a natural sweetener in smoothies, yogurt, or baking, offering an alternative to processed sugars.
- The fruit pulp can be used to make a natural facial mask, providing vitamins and antioxidants to the skin.
- Nectarines can be used in the production of homemade fruit leather, a healthy and natural snack option.
- Nectarine pits can be cleaned and used as a component in creating beads for jewelry or decoration.
- The peels of nectarines can be fermented and distilled to produce a fruit brandy or infused into vinegars for a fruity zing.
- The fibers from nectarine tree bark can be used in papermaking or as a natural textile in craft projects.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Nectarine tree is not specifically used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Nectarine tree is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Youth and Longevity: Peaches, in general, are often associated with eternal youth due to the longevity of the peach tree and the rejuvenating properties the fruit is believed to possess in Chinese mythology.
- Love and Romance: The soft and sweet nature of the peach fruit lends itself to symbolize love and affection in various cultures.
- Fertility: Peaches are commonly seen as a symbol of fertility and abundance due to their luscious fruit and the plentiful harvest that a peach tree can provide.
- Luck: In many cultures, the peach is considered a lucky fruit, bringing good fortune to those who consume it or plant the tree.
- Marriage: In Chinese tradition, peaches are sometimes associated with marriage and bridal hopes, possibly due to their connection with longevity and love.
- Immortality: In Chinese mythology, peaches are specifically tied to the concept of immortality and arethought to be consumed by immortals due to the belief that the peach tree blossoms once every thousand years and grants eternal life to those who eat its fruit.
WaterThe Nectarine 'Lord Napier' requires deep, infrequent watering to encourage a strong root system. During the growing season, watering once every week or two with about 1-2 gallons of water per session should be sufficient, but this can vary based on climate and soil conditions. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During periods of drought or extreme heat, increase watering frequency. In fall and winter, reduce watering as the tree becomes dormant.
LightNectarines like 'Lord Napier' thrive best in full sun, which means they need at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot would be an open area away from taller trees or structures that could block sunlight. Full sun exposure is critical for fruit production and overall plant health.
TemperatureNectarine 'Lord Napier' grows best in a temperature range of 75°F to 85°F during the growing season. It has a chilling requirement and can withstand winter temperatures as low as 0°F. The plant will likely not survive in temperatures below -10°F. Nectarines also benefit from fluctuating temperatures between day and night to support fruit set and flavor development.
PruningPruning the Nectarine 'Lord Napier' is crucial for encouraging fruit production and maintaining a strong, healthy tree structure. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts, removing dead or overlapping branches to promote sunlight penetration and air circulation. Thin out the fruit in early summer to allow for larger, healthier nectarines. Pruning should be done annually for best results.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for a nectarine tree is well-draining loam with ample organic matter. It should have a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingNectarine trees, being larger fruit trees, aren’t typically repotted. Instead, they are planted directly in the ground and may require transplanting only every few years if necessary.
Humidity & MistingNectarine trees prefer moderate humidity levels; they thrive outdoors where natural humidity is present but excessive moisture can be detrimental.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not ideal for indoors; needs full sun, large space.
Outdoor
Plant in a sunny spot with well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe nectarine 'Lord Napier' begins its life cycle with the germination of the seed, which, when provided with the right conditions of warmth and moisture, will sprout and establish a small seedling. The seedling grows through vegetative states, establishing roots, stems, and leaves, and eventually becomes a young tree. As it matures, the nectarine tree enters a phase of flowering, typically in the spring, where it produces blossoms that are pollinated by insects. Following successful pollination, the flowers develop into fruit, which ripen over the summer months, signaling the tree's reproductive stage. Once the fruit is mature, it is harvested, and the seeds within the nectarines are dispersed, either by human action or naturally, to propagate the next generation. The nectarine tree is a perennial plant, so this cycle of flowering and fruiting continues annually, while the tree itself can live and bear fruit for many years with proper care and environmental conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The nectarine 'Lord Napier' is typically propagated by grafting, which is the most popular method for this type of fruit tree. This process involves taking a piece of a mature, disease-free nectarine tree that includes a bud—known as a scion—and attaching it to a rootstock that has been specifically chosen for its hardiness and compatibility with the scion. The best time for grafting nectarines is in late winter or early spring, when the tree is still dormant but just about to enter its active growth phase. Grafting involves making precise cuts in both the scion and the rootstock and fitting them together so that the cambium layers—the growing parts of each—align as closely as possible. The joined pieces are then securely wrapped to keep them in place and to ensure that they do not dry out, which would prevent the graft from taking successfully.
