Introducing 'USDA-ARS Parpareil': A Highly Anticipated Almond Cultivar
Named after Parlier, CA, and the popular ‘Nonpareil’ almond variety, ‘Parpareil’ was selected for its superior nut quality that rivals the premium flavor, physical properties, and processing of the ‘Nonpareil’ variety. ‘Parpareil’ is also self-compatible and requires fewer honey bees to transfer pollen from flower to flower to fertilize the blossoms and produce nuts for a successful harvest. High yields with fewer honey bees save farmers money.
The ARS research team worked with university and industry stakeholders in assessing the cultivar’s potential for commercial production. Rigorous regional variety trials conducted by the Almond Board of California and the University of California confirmed 'Parpareil' had high-producing yields and desired qualities.
“Beyond its impressive yields, 'Parpareil' boasts a host of desirable traits: an early harvest, a high crackout rate, and minimal issues with doubles, twins, creases, or damage from the dreaded navel orangeworm, a primary moth pest found in California’s almond orchards,” said Rodrigo Krugner, Research Leader at the San Joaquin Valley Agricultural Sciences Center’s Crop Diseases, Pests, and Genetics Research Unit in Parlier.
popular almond cultivars ‘Nonpareil’ almonds and ‘Yorizane’
(labeled Y116-161-99). (Photo by Craig Ledbetter, ARS)
“Its kernels are light, smooth, and sweet. The outer casing of the almond fruit, known as the hull, opens fully. Plus, it shows no particular susceptibility to diseases. These combined qualities make 'Parpareil' a highly anticipated addition for almond nurseries and growers.”
Krugner added that self-pollinating almond trees also improve efficiency in orchard management. Traditional almond orchards must have different varieties for pollination as bees move pollen between rows. Planting different varieties in the same orchard increases the cost of harvest. With self-compatible varieties like ‘Parpareil,’ the entire orchard can be planted with the same variety.
In July 2025, 'Parpareil' received approval for public release and will soon be accessible to almond growers. The new cultivar will be deposited in the USDA’s National Plant Germplasm System for future research and breeding efforts.
“The journey of 'Parpareil' exemplifies the power of long-term commitment and the tireless dedication of researchers,” said Tara McHugh, ARS Pacific West Area Director. “Developing innovative almond varieties to meet the challenges of a changing agricultural environment is a multi-year effort. 'Parpareil' stands as a testament to this crucial work.” – by Aileen Hendratna, ARS Pacific West Area, and Jessica Ryan, ARS Office of Communications
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