Sweet Almond can be a bush or tree. Its flowers have a lovely fragrance and attract butterflies with their nectar. One butterfly that is especially attracted to its flowers is the rare Atala Butterfly. It is also relatively drought tolerant, making it a good option for xeriscaping.
How to care for Sweet Almond Bush
Light. Full sun.
Water. Water generously for the first couple of years; without enough water it skips flowering and the leaf edges curl. Once established it is very drought tolerant and does well with summer rain or watering once or twice a week.
Soil and feeding. Prefers average to dry, well-drained soil. Soggy soil can cause root rot.
Size. A fast-growing large shrub or small tree, usually about 10 ft; it can reach 15 ft tall and 8 ft wide. Give it room.
Pruning. Flowers form on new growth, so pruning increases blooms while controlling size and shape. Removing spent flowers brings more.
Problems to watch. It is generally problem-free outdoors.
Good to know. Almond-scented white flowers appear from March to November and draw butterflies, bees, wasps and hummingbirds.
Sources: NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Aloysia virgata · UF/IFAS Extension Lake County: Aromatic Sweet Almond Bush
