Description
About the Tilton Apricot Tree
The Tilton Apricot Tree is a classic American variety prized for its reliability, rich flavor, and exceptional performance in the kitchen. Long considered one of the best apricots for canning and drying, Tilton also shines when enjoyed fresh, offering sweet, fine-textured flesh with a balanced apricot flavor.
This vigorous, productive tree produces medium to large, heart-shaped fruit with golden-yellow skin and a soft red blush. Apricots ripen in mid to late summer, providing a dependable harvest window and generous yields once established. Tilton is self-pollinating, though planting a second apricot nearby can help increase production.
Discovered as a chance seedling in California in the late 1800s, Tilton quickly became a commercial standard thanks to its consistency, strong flavor, and ability to hold color and texture when preserved. Today, it remains a favorite for home gardeners who want a time-tested apricot that performs well across a wide range of climates.
With good resistance to brown rot, dependable cold hardiness, and fruit that excels fresh or preserved, Tilton Apricot stands out as a hardworking, versatile choice for home orchards.
Survival Guaranteed!


Since 1816, Stark Bro’s has promised to provide customers with the very best fruit trees and plants. It’s just that simple. If your trees or plants do not survive, please let us know within one year of delivery. We will send you a free one-time replacement, with a nominal shipping fee of $9.99. If the item in question is not available, we can issue a one-time credit to your account equaling the original product purchase price or issue you a refund. Read more about our warranty policy.
Characteristics
| Bloom Color | Pink, White |
| Chill Hours | 600 - 700 |
| Fruit Color | Yellow |
| Fruit Size | Medium |
| Hardiness Zone Range | 4 - 9 |
| Pollination | Self-Pollinating |
| Ripens/Harvest | July |
| Shade/Sun | Full Sun |
| Soil Composition | Loamy |
| Soil Moisture | Well Drained |
| Soil pH Level | 6.0 - 7.0 |
| Taste | Sweet |
| Years to Bear | 2 - 5 |
Size & Spacing
Mature Size
Recommended Spacing
Zone Compatibility
Pollination
This variety is self pollinating.
Tools & Supplies
Planting & Care
Learn all about how to grow apricot trees in The Growing Guide. An entire section of our website dedicated to your growing success.






