The apricot (Prunus armeniaca) is a small, orange-yellow fruit with a velvety skin and a sweet, tart flavor. It is a drupe, meaning it has a single hard stone or pit surrounding its seed. Apricots are native to a region spanning Central Asia to Northern China, and have been cultivated for thousands of years. The fruit is rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and dietary fiber, making it a nutritious addition to diets. In Hebrew, the apricot is called אפרסק (afresk). Other relevant translations include apricot in French, apricot in Spanish, aprikose in German, and apricot in Italian. Apricots are often eaten fresh or dried, and are also used in jams, jellies, and other preserves. They can be canned or frozen for longer storage. The fruit is also used in various cuisines for making desserts, such as tarts, pies, and ice cream.