almond tree

The almond tree is named also Prunus dulcis or Prunus amygdalus. It is a deciduous tree native to the Middle East and South Asia. It is part of Rosaceae family like peach tree, cherry tree, medlar tree and apricot tree: relative images are found in the site. Though the tree is native to the Mediterranean climate, it spread in many other countries, most of all in California. The plants are white or pale pink. The fruit is a drupe covered by an outer hull and a hard shell. Fruits are generally sweet, but a few bitter ones are found. These bitter fruits are used to prepare Italian biscuits named amaretti; in big quantity they are toxic. The oil is extracted from the fruits; it is emollient, it is used for massage and to prevent skin ageing. Almonds are a rich source of vitamin E, they can lower LDL cholesterol. You can find many pictures of sweets made with almonds: they are typical of Europe regions like Sicily and Turkey.

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