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Japanese Apricot 'Koume'

Prunus armeniaca 'Koume'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

180 inches

Width

180 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

20+ years

Native To

China, Korea

Toxicity

Fruit is edible, but other parts (leaves, stems, pits) are toxic.

The Story

Plant Bio

Prunus mume 'Koume' is a small, deciduous tree prized for its profusion of fragrant, pink, single or semi-double flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring on bare branches. This cultivar is noted for its beautiful pink blossoms and high yields of small, tart, yellow-green fruit used for pickling and preserves.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Koume apricots offer beautiful spring blossoms and edible fruit, enhancing garden aesthetics.

Provides sweet, nutritious apricots for fresh eating, cooking, and preserves.

Supports pollinators like bees and beneficial insects, fostering healthy ecosystems.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location with well-draining soil for planting.
Tuck seeds or young trees into the soil, ensuring proper depth and spacing.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around roots.
Apply mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer for healthy growth.
Prune lightly during winter to shape the tree and remove dead branches.

Pro Tip

Plant Koume apricots in a sheltered spot with full sun for best fruit production.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Tuck seeds in moist soil during early spring 🌱
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity
Fertilize annually with organic compost
Prune to improve air circulation
Water deeply during dry spells

Don't

Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
Don't plant in heavy, poorly-draining clay soil
Refrain from heavy pruning during active fruiting season
Don't neglect winter protection in cold zones

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Harvest
Prune
Spray

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant orchard borderFlowering fruit tree focal pointEdible landscape feature

Companion Plants

Marigolds Nasturtiums Lavender Chives Borage

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Apricot 'Koume' questions

What zones can Japanese Apricot 'Koume' grow in?

Japanese Apricot 'Koume' is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Japanese Apricot 'Koume' deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Japanese Apricot 'Koume', especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Japanese Apricot 'Koume' bloom?

Japanese Apricot 'Koume' typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Japanese Apricot 'Koume' need full sun?

Japanese Apricot 'Koume' does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Japanese Apricot 'Koume' drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Japanese Apricot 'Koume' handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.