Amygdaloideae

The Amygdaloideae is one of four subfamilies within the plant family Rosaceae, commonly known as the rose family. This subfamily is characterized by its drupes, which are fleshy fruits containing a hard stone or pit.1

Key genera within Amygdaloideae include Prunus*, which encompasses a variety of well-known fruits such as almonds, apricots, cherries, nectarines, peaches, and plums. Fossil evidence indicates the presence of Prunus* fruit pits dating back to the Eocene epoch. Some plants in this subfamily, particularly in their seeds and pits, contain cyanogenetic glycosides like amygdalin. When hydrolyzed, amygdalin releases sugar, benzaldehyde, and cyanide, a dangerous poison. While sweet almonds are safe, bitter almonds and the pits of cherries, plums, and apricots can be poisonous if consumed in large quantities.123