How to Grow and Care for Japanese apricot

Japanese apricot, also known as Chinese plum, Mume, Ume, Flowering apricot, Plum blossom, Ume blossom

Japanese apricot thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil, requiring adequate moisture and full sun to partial shade exposure for optimal growth. Special care points include the necessity for winter protection in colder climates, as japanese apricot is susceptible to frost damage. Pruning is essential after flowering to maintain shape and health, preventing common diseases like plum pox virus and bacterial blast.

Watering schedule: Every 2 weeks

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Toxic to Pets

In This Article

Planting and Growing Japanese apricot

Toughness	High
Care Level	Low
Care Difficulty	Moderate
Lifespan	Perennial
Watering Schedule	Every 2 weeks
Sunlight Requirements	Full sun
Soil Type	Potting Mix, Garden Soil
Soil pH	6-7.5
Hardiness Zones	5-9
Toxicity	Toxic to Pets

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The Toxicity of Japanese apricot

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More General Info About Japanese apricot

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Japanese apricot is characterized by its deciduous nature with a bushy silhouette and a rounded to oval crown, reaching a height and spread of 15 to 20 feet (4.5 to 6 meters). Its young bark is light gray and smooth, maturing to an exfoliating, deeply furrowed texture. The stems exhibit a polished, shiny green. Leaves are alternate, simple, ovate, 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 centimeters) long, with sharp serrations and a rich green hue above, beneath which they are pubescent along the veins. The striking 5-petaled, pale pink flowers are about 1 to 1.25 inches (2.5 to 3.2 centimeters) in diameter, blossoming on bare branches in late winter. The plant produces round, fuzzy, edible drupes, yellowish-green to yellow-orange in color, 1 to 1.25 inches (2.5 to 3.2 centimeters) in diameter, containing a stony seed, and are ready for harvest in summer.