Japanese apricot (Prunus mume 'Fenghou')

Overview

The Prunus mume ‘Fenghou’, commonly known as the Japanese apricot, is highly valued in the ornamental landscape primarily for its spectacular mid-to-late winter floral display. This fast-growing, deciduous tree brings much-needed color before most other plants awaken. Its unique timing provides visual interest, often occurring in February and March, making it a treasured specimen.

This Japanese apricot cultivar typically reaches a height and spread of 15 to 20 feet, forming a handsome, rounded form ideal for medium-sized gardens or as a focal point. While valued for its flowers, it also produces fuzzy, edible fruits praised for preserves, though they differ significantly from common commercial apricots. Prunus mume ‘Fenghou’ is noted for its relatively low maintenance requirements once established.

Gardeners seeking winter interest should note this tree provides an upright presence, occasionally trained as a large shrub. The spicily fragrant blossoms appear before the foliage emerges, offering a powerful aromatic punch during the dormant season. Selecting the right location is key to maximizing the beauty of Prunus mume ‘Fenghou’.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Rosaceae
• Plant Type: Tree
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 6-9
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 15-20 ft
  • Spread: 15-20 ft
• Bloom Time: February to March
• Bloom Description: White
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Low

How to Grow

Planting the Japanese apricot should occur when dormant, ensuring the best chance for establishment before summer heat. Choose average soil that is medium in moisture and drains well; importantly, avoid heavy clay and persistently wet locations. While this species prefers acidic loam, the best flowering performance for Prunus mume ‘Fenghou’ is achieved in full sun, though some afternoon shade is beneficial in the intense heat of the South.

Ongoing care generally remains low maintenance. Water needs are medium; established trees rarely require supplemental irrigation unless prolonged drought occurs. Pruning, if necessary, should be done immediately following the bloom period to avoid removing next year’s flower buds.

Winter hardiness is generally reliable in Zones 6-8, but northern growers, especially near the marginal limit like St. Louis, must site the tree in a protected spot, such as against a south-facing wall. Be cautious, as protection that encourages early blooming may expose the tender flowers to unexpected late-winter freezes, leading to frost damage.

Landscape Uses

The Prunus mume ‘Fenghou’ is categorized as an excellent Flowering Tree, making it perfect for prominent specimen planting where its winter display can be admired up close. Siting near walkways or patios capitalizes on its fragrant winter flowers and potential summer fruit harvest.

In formal or mixed borders, the mid-winter structure of this tree provides necessary architectural interest. For best results in challenging climates, focus on protected placements, like the south side of a structure, which moderates temperature swings. Consider grouping several for a stronger visual impact when the landscape is otherwise barren.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy
• Fragrant

Fruit Qualities

• Showy
• Edible

Noteworthy Characteristics

Prunus mume, commonly called Japanese apricot, is primarily grown for ornamental purposes, and in particular for its mid to late winter bloom of pink flowers. It is native to China, Taiwan, Korea and Japan. It is an upright, fast-growing, deciduous tree that typically grows to 15-20’ tall with a rounded form. It may be trained as a large shrub. Spicily fragrant pink flowers (solitary or in pairs) bloom in winter (February - March in St. Louis but earlier in mild winter climates) before the leaves emerge. Flowers have red calyxes and yellowish stamens. Flowers are followed by fuzzy-skinned, green to yellow apricots (to 1” diameter) with clinging stones. Apricots ripen in summer. Apricots are technically edible fresh from the plant (some say bitter and inedible), but are at any rate of very poor quality in comparison to commercially sold common apricots (Prunus armeniaca). Fruits may be harvested for use in making jams and preserves. Broad-oval leaves (2-4” long) are sharply-serrulate.Genus name from Latin means plum or cherry tree.Specific epithet is a variant of the Japanese name umi for a species of Prunus.‘Fenghou’ and ‘Dan Fenghou’ are well-known cultivar in China where they are noted for having good winter hardiness.

Tolerances

• Avoid heavy clays and poorly drained wet soils.

Potential Problems

The primary risk when growing Prunus mume ‘Fenghou’ involves unpredictable spring weather. Cold temperatures occurring late in winter can easily damage the delicate flower buds and subsequent fruit set, meaning flowering success can vary year to year, especially in marginal northern zones. If fruits successfully develop, be aware they can be messy if left to decay on hardscaping below.

Standard pest and disease pressures apply to this genus. Watch for potential insect pests such as aphids, scale insects, and borers, which can weaken the tree over time. Fungal issues like bacterial canker and brown rot are also possibilities, often exacerbated by poor air circulation or overly wet soil conditions.

Management involves good cultural practices: ensuring excellent drainage and planting in a location that avoids both the harshest winter winds and the warmest south-facing spots that encourage premature flowering. Inspect foliage and branches regularly for early signs of canker or pest infestation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Japanese apricot suitable for?

The Prunus mume ‘Fenghou’ is hardy in USDA Zones 6 through 9, thriving best where winter chilling is adequate but late freezes are less common.

How large does Japanese apricot grow?

This tree typically matures to a size of 15 to 20 feet tall and spreads 15 to 20 feet wide, offering a rounded, substantial form.

What sun exposure does Japanese apricot need?

For the most reliable and abundant bloom, Prunus mume ‘Fenghou’ requires full sun, though partial shade is acceptable in very hot climates.

When does Japanese apricot bloom?

The signature period for Prunus mume ‘Fenghou’ bloom is late winter, specifically February to March, producing striking white flowers.

Conclusion

The Prunus mume ‘Fenghou’ is an exceptionally rewarding addition for gardeners seeking early, fragrant, and showy flowers to break up the winter monotony. Providing low maintenance and reliable size, this Japanese apricot brings structure and beauty to the dormant landscape. Before planting, verify your local hardiness zone and select a planting site that offers suitable sun exposure and protection from damaging late frosts.

Companion Planting

When integrating the Japanese apricot into your design, consider companions that can tolerate similar soil moisture (medium, well-drained) and sun exposure. Plants that bloom later—such as spring bulbs or early summer perennials—will provide excellent sequential color interest once the tree’s winter show is over. Grouping Prunus mume ‘Fenghou’ near evergreen shrubs can heighten the contrast of its white blossoms against a dark green backdrop during winter.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Mid-winter care centers on protection; if severe cold snaps are forecast during the bloom window (February-March), lightly draping the tree with burlap can offer minimal protection against sudden drops in temperature that could damage the flowers. Spring cleanup involves removing any debris after the petals drop and applying mulch to maintain consistent soil moisture and temperature. Summer monitoring should focus on drainage—ensure the soil is not becoming waterlogged—and checking for common stone fruit pests like scale or borers.