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[Almonds]

#61

Walking in Arillas and north west Corfu / Re: Walking around corfu

Last post by kevin-beverly - May 21, 2025, 10:04:14 AM

Almonds

Prunus amygdalus, syn. Prunus dulcis

The fruit of the almond is a drupe, consisting of an outer hull and a hard shell with the seed, which is not a true nut.
 Shelling almonds refers to removing the shell to reveal the seed. Almonds are sold shelled or unshelled. Blanched almonds are shelled almonds that have been treated with hot water to soften the seedcoat, which is then removed to reveal the white embryo. Once almonds are cleaned and processed, they can be stored for around a year if kept refrigerated; at higher temperatures they will become rancid more quickly. Almonds are used in many cuisines, often featuring prominently in desserts, such as marzipan.
The almond tree prospers in a moderate Mediterranean climate with cool winter weather. It is rarely found wild in its original setting. Almonds were one of the earliest domesticated fruit trees, due to the ability to produce quality offspring entirely from seed, without using suckers and cuttings. Evidence of domesticated almonds in the Early Bronze Age has been found in the archeological sites of the Middle East, and subsequently across the Mediterranean region and similar arid climates with cool winters.

Kingdom:   Plantae
Clade:   Tracheophytes
Clade:   Angiosperms
Clade:   Eudicots
Clade:   Rosids
Order:   Rosales
Family:   Rosaceae
Genus:   Prunus
Subgenus:   Prunus subg. Amygdalus
Species:   P. amygdalus
Binomial name
Prunus amygdalus

The almond is a deciduous tree growing to 3–4.5 metres (10–15 feet) in height, with a trunk of up to 30 centimetres (12 inches) in diameter. The young twigs are green at first, becoming purplish where exposed to sunlight, then grey in their second year. The leaves are 8–13 cm (3–5 in) long,[9] with a serrated margin and a 2.5 cm (1 in) petiole.
The almond tree, which has existed in Greece since the antiquity, is the first deciduous tree to flower, usually in February or even January if the weather is mild; it has thus been particularly associated with the rebirth of nature and undying hope, giving rise to myths linked to its early bloom.
The fragrant flowers are white to pale pink, 3–5 cm (1–2 in) diameter with five petals, produced singly or in pairs and appearing before the leaves in early spring in uk

HABITAT
Almond trees thrive in Mediterranean climates, including areas of Greece, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. They prefer sunny locations with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily and well-draining, moderately fertile soil. They also require a period of chill time (300-600 hours below 7°C) to break dormancy and begin flowering, according to Gardenia.net.
Will grow in the UK
 they are usually found in gardens or orchards, especially in more sheltered and sunny locations.

HISTORY
The Greek almond tree has a rich history, dating back to ancient times when it was considered a symbol of fertility and rebirth. It's been cultivated in Greece for centuries, with evidence suggesting it was introduced from Western Asia around the 5th century BCE. Almonds have been associated with Greek mythology, like the story of Phyllis and Demophon, where the tree blossoms in a miraculous way. In Greek culture, the almond tree symbolizes love, hope, and eternal hope.
Demophon, duty bound to Greece, returns home to help his father, leaving Phyllis behind. She sends him away with a casket, telling him that it contains a sacrament of Rhea and asking him to open it only if he has given up hope of returning to her. From here, the story diverges. In one version, Phyllis realizes that he will not return and commits suicide by hanging herself from a tree. Where she is buried, an almond tree grows, which blossoms when Demophon returns to her. In another version, Demophon opens the casket and, horrified by what he sees inside, rides off in such great haste that his horse stumbles and he accidentally falls on his own sword
Almonds are often used in Greek weddings and baptisms, representing good luck and prosperity.

The word almond is a loanword from Old French almande or alemande, descended from Late Latin amandula, amindula, modified from Classical Latin amygdala, which is in turn borrowed from Ancient Greek amygdálē (ἀμυγδάλη) (cf. amygdala, an almond-shaped portion of the brain). Late Old English had amygdales 'almonds'

The adjective amygdaloid (literally 'like an almond, almond-like') is used to describe objects which are roughly almond-shaped, particularly a shape which is part way between a triangle and an ellipse. For example, the amygdala of the brain uses a direct borrowing of the Greek term amygdalē



Yes, certain parts of the almond tree can be poisonous, particularly the seeds of bitter almonds. Bitter almonds contain a compound called amygdalin, which releases cyanide when ingested, making them potentially dangerous, especially for children.
While sweet almonds, which are commonly eaten, are not considered poisonous, the seeds of bitter almonds should be handled with caution and not consumed.

In large gardens parks in landscapes
Because of their sweet but mild flavor, you can use them in everything from brownies to ice cream. Chopped almonds, slivered almonds, almond milk and almond sauce are just a few of the many ways you can go about adding them to your dessert. And because they're a nutritious snack, you can enjoy them guilt free!
Almonds have a variety of uses, from being eaten as a healthy snack to being incorporated into various culinary creations and skincare products. They are also a valuable source of nutrients, including healthy fats, fiber, protein, and vitamins.


Nutrient Source: Almonds are packed with essential nutrients, including healthy fats, fiber, protein, magnesium, and vitamin E.
Heart Health: Almonds can support heart health by reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol and blood pressure.
Weight Management: Almonds can aid in weight management by promoting satiety due to their high fiber and protein content.
Blood Sugar Control: Almonds can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Bone Health: Almonds contain calcium and phosphorus, which are important for bone health.
Brain Function: Almonds are rich in nutrients that can support brain health, including vitamin E and other antioxidants.
Immune System: Almonds contain antioxidants that can support the immune system.
Digestive Health: Almonds can improve digestion by promoting healthy gut bacteria.
Skincare: Almond oil can be used for skincare, particularly for dry or sensitive skin conditions.
Exfoliation: Almonds can be used as a gentle exfoliant to remove dead skin cells.
Hair Health: Almond oil can nourish and strengthen hair.



       

 

[DEADSTOCK]

#62

Photo Gallery Board / Re: A to Z - Photographs of Ar...

Last post by kevin-beverly - May 21, 2025, 08:46:18 AM

                                   DEADSTOCK  

In the context of farming equipment "deadstock" refers to farm tools, equipment, and machinery, as opposed to livestock. It's essentially the non-living assets used in farming operations. This can include things like tractors, harvesters, hay balers, and other machinery, as well as fertilizers, seeds, and other consumable stores.


KEV SEP 2024
ON THE WAY TO NIGH OWL

#63

Arillas general information / Re: An other Holyday reading b...

Last post by P.G. - May 20, 2025, 06:21:32 PM

Will definitely look out for that one....

I would like to warmly thank in advance everyone who has purchased my novel. Your reviews and thoughts would be truly appreciated

#64

Currency, cash and exchange. / Re: Possible Greek ATM cash w...

Last post by turkeyfoot - May 19, 2025, 11:51:25 AM

Hi Negg

You may have to upgrade your 18yr old Samsung Digimax. lol

Geoff

#65

Currency, cash and exchange. / Possible Greek ATM cash withd...

Last post by turkeyfoot - May 19, 2025, 10:41:58 AM

Hi

Greek banks looking at offering   ATM withdrawals a contactless option

https://www.keeptalkinggreece.com/2025/05/18/greek-banks-atm-cash-card-withdrawal-nfc/

Geoff

#66

Photo Gallery Board / Re: A to Z - Photographs of Ar...

Last post by Eggy - May 19, 2025, 09:51:43 AM

CHAIR



All re-cycled materials used. WOTASHAME our Arillas Centre had to close.

Cheers
Negg

[BEER]

#67

Photo Gallery Board / Re: A to Z - Photographs of Ar...

Last post by kevin-beverly - May 19, 2025, 08:47:03 AM

                          BEER

                  KEV AUG 2023

#68

Arillas general information / Athina Closure Day

Last post by turkeyfoot - May 18, 2025, 03:46:43 PM

Hi
Athina have announced they are to be closed on Mondays

Geoff

[AMAZING VIEWS]

#69

Photo Gallery Board / Re: A to Z - Photographs of Ar...

Last post by kevin-beverly - May 18, 2025, 09:38:51 AM

                                AMAZING VIEWS

                            KEV SEP 2008

#70

Arillas general information / Re: Brouklis Sunday Opening?

Last post by Teresa - May 17, 2025, 12:02:29 PM

Thanks all.

It will definitely make booking more important, especially at peak times.

In larger resorts it wouldn't be quite as much of a problem, but Arillas is quite 'condensed' with relatively few Tavernas to Holiday makers.

I suppose it will save us walking up and down the sea front trying to decide!!