Japanese apricot - Prunus mume (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Japanese apricot

Also known as: Mume

The blooms of japanese apricot are the sign of an upcoming spring in China. They bloom in late winter on bare branches, often appearing under a blanket of snow. The tree has an important cultural significance in East Asia, while its sweet, edible fruit has various culinary uses. Many varieties of Prunus mume are cultivated worldwide as ornamental trees.

Scientific classification

Species

Japanese apricot (Prunus mume)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Winter

Bloom Time

Early summer

Harvest Time

4 m to 10 m

Plant Height

6 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2 cm to 2.5 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Orange, Gold

Fruit Color

White, Pink, Red

Flower Color

Green, White, Pink

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Japanese apricot

Distribution of Japanese apricot

Distribution Map

Japanese apricot is a plant primarily indigenous to East and Southeast Asia. While it naturally occurs in the warm temperate regions of these continents, it has been introduced and cultivated in additional areas within Asia, extending its reach. Its cultivation status indicates an intentional propagation beyond its native range for ornamental and other non-specified purposes.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Thickets, forested slopes, beside streams, slopes along trails, sparse forests, mountains

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

The plum blossom came to symbolize perseverance and hope, as well as beauty, purity, and the transitoriness of life. In Confucianism, the plum blossom stands for the principles and values of virtue.

Interesting Facts

In China, Prunus mume, pine, and bamboo are considered the “three friends of winter.” Chinese artists call plum blossom, orchids, chrysanthemums, and bamboo the “four gentlemen” of flowers. And plum blossom is the seasonal representative of winter, while spring is represented by the orchid, summer by the lotus, and autumn by the chrysanthemum.

Name Story

Japanese apricot: The genus Prunus, meaning plum, includes stone fruits such as cherries, peaches, apricots, and almonds. Mume is the Japanese word for plum. Despite the common name japanese apricot, it originated in China, but it is much loved in Japan, where there are at least 300 named cultivars.

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Toxicity

Japanese apricot poses mild toxicity to humans, cats, and dogs. All plant parts except for the ripe flesh are toxic due to amygdalin, which metabolizes into hydrogen cyanide, causing symptoms like nausea and difficulty breathing. Immediate veterinary care is essential for pets exhibiting symptoms of poisoning from ingesting japanese apricot parts except the ripe flesh.

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Quickly Identify Japanese apricot

Deciduous plant with rounded crown, growing 15-20 feet (4.5-6 meters) tall and wide.

Shiny green stems and rich green ovate leaves with serrations and pubescence.

5-petaled pale pink flowers, 1-1.25 inches (2.5-3.2 cm) in diameter, blooming in late winter.

Round fuzzy drupes, yellowish-green to yellow-orange, 1-1.25 inches (2.5-3.2 cm) in diameter.

Young bark light gray and smooth, mature bark exfoliating to deeply furrowed texture.

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Care Guide for Japanese apricot

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Japanese apricot thrives in moist, well-drained soils, with moderate drought tolerance. Water every two weeks to maintain moisture without waterlogging. Typically grown outdoors, it benefits from natural rainfall, and watering needs decrease during dormancy in cooler months.

Fertilize: For japanese apricot, use balanced fertilizers in early spring and mid-summer, increasing during vegetative growth and reducing as fruit matures. Avoid over-fertilization with slow-release options. Adjust feeding in fall and winter, and always water thoroughly after fertilizing to enhance nutrient absorption and protect roots.

Pruning: Japanese apricot, valued for its fragrant blossoms, benefits from late winter pruning to enhance health and flowering. Key techniques include removing dead wood, thinning branches for air circulation, and shaping. Use sterilized tools to prevent disease. Annual pruning maintains aesthetic and structural integrity.

Propagation: Japanese apricot is an ornamental tree celebrated for its fragrant flowers. For successful propagation, select healthy seeds and stratify them before sowing in well-draining soil with consistent moisture. Protect seedlings from direct sun and extreme temperatures to promote strong root growth and vigor.

Repotting: Repot japanese apricot every 2-3 years in early spring to support root expansion and recovery. Use a large, well-draining container and ensure ample sunlight and moist soil post-repotting for healthy growth, which is vital for robust blossoming.

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