How to Grow Kaname Ume
Kaname Ume
Prunus mume 'Kaname'
treeKaname Ume is a Japanese apricot cultivar prized for its fragrant pink-red blossoms that appear in late winter to early spring. This ornamental and fruit-bearing tree produces small, tart fruits used in traditional Japanese cuisine and beverages. It is valued both as a landscape specimen and for its culinary and medicinal applications.
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Example Kaname Ume timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Kaname Ume
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Kaname Ume
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Kaname Ume dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 6-8, with some success in zones 5b and 9a
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Get my Kaname Ume timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First yearYoung tree with minimal branching; focus on root development and structure. Nursery-grafted trees are typically 3-4 feet tall.
Water regularly to establish roots. Stake for support in windy areas. Prune lightly to establish central leader or multi-stem form.
Vegetative Growth
Years 1-3Tree develops branching structure and foliage canopy. New growth is vigorous; leaves are lanceolate and medium green.
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring. Prune to shape and remove crossing branches. Thin crowded growth for air circulation.
Flowering
2-4 weeksAbundant fragrant blossoms appear on bare or emerging branches in late winter to early spring (February-March in many regions). Flowers range from pale pink to rose-red depending on cultivar.
Do not prune during flowering. Protect from late frost damage with frost cloth if temperatures drop below 20°F. Ensure adequate water and nutrients for heavy blooming.
Fruiting
3-4 monthsSmall round fruits (1-1.5 inches diameter) develop after flowering, initially green then ripening to yellow-green or pale yellow by mid to late summer (June-August).
Thin developing fruit if desired (remove every 2nd-3rd fruit) to encourage larger individual fruits. Water consistently during fruit development.
Dormancy
Late October through FebruaryTree loses leaves in autumn; growth slows significantly. Buds form on branches for next season's flowering.
Cease fertilizing in late summer. Prune only to remove dead or diseased wood. No watering needed if adequate autumn rainfall occurs.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove fallen fruit; apply kaolin clay in spring; introduce parasitic wasps; prune to improve air circulation
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Maintain tree vigor with proper watering; prune stressed branches; avoid wounding bark; apply horticultural oil in early spring
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Spray with water to remove; apply insecticidal soap; maintain humidity; use sulfur dust if severe
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Hand-pick in early morning; use pheromone traps away from tree; apply neem oil or spinosad
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Prune infested branches; apply horticultural oil in dormant season; use insecticidal soap in growing season
Uses
Umeboshi & Pickled Plums
CulinaryThe tart fruits are traditionally preserved as umeboshi (salted and fermented Japanese plums) and used in rice dishes, teas, and as digestive aids. Fresh or dried fruits add flavor to beverages and condiments. [source]
Traditional Digestive & Immune Support
MedicinalJapanese and Chinese medicine use Prunus mume fruits to support digestion, immune function, and respiratory health. The high citric acid content aids nutrient absorption and may support liver function. [source]
Ornamental Landscape Feature
CraftKaname Ume is prized as an ornamental specimen for its spectacular early spring fragrant blossoms, making it an iconic feature in Japanese-inspired gardens and landscapes. [source]
Ume Liqueur & Tea
CulinaryFruits are used to create umeshu (plum liqueur) and traditional ume tea, which is valued for its pleasant tart flavor and potential health benefits. [source]
Fragrance & Cultural Significance
HouseholdThe intensely fragrant blossoms symbolize beauty and resilience in Japanese culture and are celebrated in poetry and art. Cut branches are used in ikebana arrangements. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest fruits in mid to late summer when they reach full size and color (pale yellow-green). Fruits should yield slightly to gentle pressure. Pick by hand or allow to fall naturally if making umeboshi (pickled plums). For immediate consumption, harvest when fully ripe. Fruits can be dried or preserved.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Kaname Ume is one of the earliest flowering trees in temperate climates, often blooming while snow is still on the ground, and its fragrance can carry 50+ feet on warm spring days.
- 🌱 Japanese ume (Prunus mume) is technically a botanical apricot, not a true plum, though it is commonly called Japanese plum; umeboshi have been documented in Japanese cuisine for over 1,000 years.
- 🌱 The Kaname variety is especially valued for its deep pink-red flowers and superior fragrance compared to other ume cultivars, making it highly sought after for ornamental purposes in both Japan and Western gardens.
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