Understanding the biological characteristics and abiotic stress tolerance mechanisms of Amygdalus pedunculata and increasing the ecological and economic benefits during its use for desertification control are important issues for achieving sustainable desertification control and improving ecosystem service function in the ecologically vulnerable areas. This paper reviews the recent progresses in the research of Amygdalus pedunculata, which include the development of technique in rapid seedling and cultivation without irrigation water, the studies of the characteristics of growth and adaptability to stress in different regions, and the promotion of the application of Amygdalus pedunculata in desertification control and its product development. Based on the previous achievements, we put forward the opportunities and challenges of research on Amygdalus pedunculata. The recommendations for future studies include the suitable soil types for Amygdalus pedunculata growth and the assessment of its water consumption, the optimum planting densities of Amygdalus pedunculata in different regions and the required management practices, the abiotic stress tolerance mechanisms of Amygdalus pedunculata and its product development and high value utilization. These research topics are of importance to the spread and construction of Amygdalus pedunculata forest, optimize the management of water and soil resources, and improve the ecosystem service function in fragile Northwest China.