Apricot Aquarius

Seedling of the 'Lel' variety from open pollination. Selected in 1996 by L. A. Kramarenko. Originating institution — Main Botanical Garden. Included in the State Register in 2004 for the Central Region.

Tall and robust tree (5-6 m). One-year-old shoots are weakly branched. Flowers are small, 2.5-2.8 cm, white.

Fruits are round, with a distinct seam, weighing 25-30 g. Fruits are not as shiny as those of the 'Lel' variety, yellow with a barely visible blush. Flesh is orange, tender, medium density. Taste is tangy-sweet, harmonious, tasting score 4.5 points. Chemical composition: dry matter 14.2%, sugars 7.6%, titratable acids 2.7%, potassium content 345 mg/100g. Pit is small (8.5%), separates easily.

Fruits of this variety are suitable for fresh consumption, and jams and compotes made from them are of high quality. Fruit storability is poor.

Ripening period is medium, similar to 'Gravini' — in the second decade of August. Yield is regular and high. Winter and frost resistance is good. Fruit production occurs on all types of shoots. Grafted plants begin fruiting on the 3rd-4th year after grafting.