Standing with roots straddling the border of two seasons, the Japanese flowering apricot, Prunus mume, is a dazzling darling of the late-winter early spring flowering trees.
History of Prunus Mume
The deciduous tree has been held in high esteem in Asian gardens for hundreds of years. In Japan the opening blossoms inspire multigenerational pilgrimages to view the floral display. They are found in Japanese gardens.
In China the tree is designated one of Three Friends of Winter and is grown in tea gardens. The five petaled flower represents five blessings: health, wealth, virtue, old age and natural death.
Although the plant was introduced to Europe in the mid-nineteenth century, few Americans became familiar with the tree until the twentieth century. The late J.C. Raulston, horticulturist at North Carolina State University, awakened the U.S. horticulture industry to the merits of the plant in 1970. Over 50 varieties of Prunus mume are displayed at the JC Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Culture and Description
The tree has four different growth habits depending upon the cultivar: rounded, corkscrew, columnar, and weeping. Fragrant single or double flowers of white, pink, or red appear ahead of dark green oval leaves. Leaves turn gold in autumn.
A small round yellow fruit follows the flower. The decorative fruits are eaten and dispersed by wildlife.
The tree grows rapidly to achieve a mature height of 20 feet. Its short lifespan of loveliness is 20 years.
Cultivation
For maximum floral display, plant in a sunny location in hardiness zones 6-8.
The tree adapts to sand, loam, or clay soils with good drainage. Soil pH can range from 4-7.
Take a soil test to determine the specific fertilizer formula for established trees. Apply a high phosphorus fertilizer to young trees.
Since blossoms appear on the previous year’s growth, prune immediately after flowering. Annual pruning maintains desired shape and contributes to increased blooming.
Overall the tree is free of major pests and diseases. However, aphids, borers, scales, spider mites and tent caterpillars can cause minor problems. Bacterial canker and brown rot are significant diseases noted.
Landscape Uses
One outstanding landscape feature of the frost tolerant blossom bud is the staggered dormancy ensuring prolonged period of flowering and fragrance. Give passersby an awesome view by siting the tree along walkways, driveways or at the curb.
The petite tree is ideal for a small garden or a perfect accent for a large landscape.
Rosemary Veery, British gardener, suggests training the tree as an espalier on a south facing wall.
Municipalities value the tree for its curb appeal. It is used in median strips along highways and in buffer zones in parking lots and has potential along bike and jogging paths. Its short stature fits safely under utility lines.
Propagation
The Japanese flowering apricot is easily rooted from softwood cuttings in early summer.
Seeds require cold moist stratification for germination. Scientists also propagate the tree by grafting and budding.
Nothing warms the heart on a winter walk like the Japanese flowering apricot, first fruit blossom of the year.
Arlene Marturano - Arlene Marturano, an educator, consultant, master gardener, and writer advocates gardens as a context and gardening as a tool for ...
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