Japanese apricot (Prunus mume)
Care, watering, light and tips for Japanese apricot on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Rosaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Japanese apricot
Prunus mume, commonly known as Chinese Plum or Japanese Apricot, is a deciduous tree cherished for its beautiful winter and early spring blossoms, often appearing before the leaves. Its fragrant flowers range in color from pure white to deep pink, and its gnarled form makes it ideal as a specimen plant, in Asian-style gardens, or as a bonsai.
Native range
China and Korea
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal flowering and prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Watering should be regular during dry periods, especially when young, but avoid waterlogging. It is crucial to prune after flowering to maintain shape and promote abundant blooms the following year, avoiding severe pruning in autumn or winter which may remove flower buds.
How to save a dying Japanese apricot
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or premature leaf drop, dry branches or gummosis.
- First aid
- Check drainage, prune dead branches, apply fungicide if disease signs.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or underwatering in drought. Lack of sun.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and action is swift.