Amygdalus Communis Amara is the scientific name for the bitter almond tree, a species of deciduous tree native to the Middle East. Synonyms for this tree include Prunus dulcis var. amara, Prunus amygdalus var. amara, and Amygdalus nana. Bitter almonds are often used in cooking and for their medicinal properties, but they contain a small amount of cyanide and must be handled with care. In contrast, sweet almonds, also known as Prunus amygdalus dulcis, have a lower concentration of cyanide and are more commonly used in culinary preparations. Overall, the bitter almond tree has many nicknames and synonyms, but its unique flavor and nutritional properties remain the same.