Apricot tree--Earli Sun cultivar

Abstract

A new and distinct variety of apricot tree is provided which originated as a single bud sport or limb mutation of the `Castlebrite` cultivar (non-patented in the United States). The new cultivar has been named `Earli Sun`, and can be distinguished by its freestone fruits which are substantially similar in color and appearance to those of `Castlebrite` cultivar, yet are significantly larger in size, being ripening approximately two days later than those of the `Castlebrite` cultivar, and are markedly lower in the acidity of the flesh at harvest.

I claim: 
     
       1. A new and distinct cultivar of apricot tree having the following combination of characteristics: (a) forms early-maturing fruit on a consistent basis that is larger in size than that of the `Castlebrite` cultivar,   (b) forms fruit of low to mild acidity that is of a significantly lesser acidity than that of the `Castlebrite` cultivar, and   (c) exhibits a growth habit that is more vigorous than that of the `Castlebrite` cultivar; substantially as shown and described.