Definition

Noun: 1. A species of flowering tree, Prunus mume, native to East Asia, particularly cultivated in Japan and China. It is known for its early and fragrant blossoms, which appear before its leaves, and its small, edible yellow fruit. It is often called "Japanese apricot" in English, though it is more closely related to the apricot than the plum. It is primarily valued as an ornamental tree for its beautiful flowers.

Usage Examples

• The Japanese apricot in our garden blooms with delicate pink flowers every February, even when there is still snow on the ground.
• While the fruit of the Japanese apricot is quite sour when raw, it is commonly pickled or used to make a flavorful liqueur in Japan.
• Many classical East Asian paintings feature the Japanese apricot as a symbol of perseverance and hope because it flowers in late winter.

Advanced Usage

• In botanical/horticultural contexts: The term is used to specify this particular species () within the larger genus, which includes plums, cherries, peaches, and almonds.
  • The study compared the cold hardiness of the Japanese apricot to that of the common apricot.
• In cultural contexts: The tree is deeply symbolic in Japanese, Chinese, and Korean culture, representing purity, longevity, and renewal. Its name often appears in poetry and art.
  • The first chapter of the novel describes a courtyard centered around a venerable old Japanese apricot tree.

Variants and Related Words

• Ume: The Japanese name for the tree and its fruit.
• Mume: An alternative botanical/common name derived from its species name.
• Chinese plum: A common alternative name, though it is not a true plum.
• Flowering apricot: A descriptive name highlighting its ornamental use.

Synonyms

• Prunus mume (Scientific/Botanical name)
• Chinese plum
• Flowering apricot
• Mume

Related Phrases & Cultural Notes

• Umeshu: A Japanese liqueur made by steeping unripe Japanese apricot fruit in sugar and (a distilled spirit).
• Umeboshi: Pickled Japanese apricot fruit, a traditional, very tart Japanese condiment.
• "The Three Friends of Winter" (松竹梅, Shō-Chiku-Bai): A classic East Asian artistic motif where the Japanese apricot (梅, ) is depicted alongside the pine tree and bamboo, symbolizing perseverance, as all three thrive in the cold season.

Noun

1. Japanese ornamental tree with fragrant white or pink blossoms and small yellow fruits