Species Japanese apricot
pink-green fruits and lime leaves on green stems

Japanese apricot

Prunus mume 'Peggy Clarke'

Japanese apricot (Prunus mume 'Peggy Clarke') is a stunning, deciduous shrub with vibrant white flowers. This species is an elegant, easy-care shrub that is ideal for wildlife gardens and patio gardens. Its fragrant, light pink, semi- double flowers bloom in early spring and are followed by edible, dark green, shiny fruits in the fall. Pruning is not necessary, but the plant looks best when the branches are pruned after flowering. Japanese apricot can grow in full sun or partial shade and is drought tolerant. It is sure to be a show-stopper in your garden!

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation,Cutting,Air Layering Propagation,Tissue Culture

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 9

Flowers:

Rose pink Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Fruits:

yellow,orange Fruits Ready In Fall

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Japanese apricot should be watered every 7-10 days. A deep soak, about 1-2 inches, allows the soil to soak up the water and reach the roots. Make sure to water early in the day so the foliage has a chance to dry before the evening. In the hot summer months, it is a good idea to water twice a week. During the winter months it is important to check the soil before watering. Japanese apricot do not need as much water when the days are shorter and the temperature is cooler. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, and provide enough water so the entire root zone is moistened.

sunlight

Japanese apricot (Prunus mume 'Peggy Clarke') requires full sun or partial shade to thrive. It prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth. In areas with intense summer heat, it is best to give the plant some shade during the hottest hours of the day.

pruning

Pruning of Japanese apricot (Prunus mume 'Peggy Clarke') should be done in early spring before it begins its new growth cycle in late April or early May. Prune to maintain shape but avoid pruning the previous season's flowering wood as this will hinder the formation of new buds and reduce flowering. On established specimens considered heavy pruning, remove aging wood to several inches above the ground to encourage new growth and flowering. Prune lightly each year to keep plants compact. Remove dead, diseased, and crossing branches to promote an open center and better air circulation.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Prunus mume 'Peggy Clarke' typically starts flowering in February.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Prunus mume 'Peggy Clarke' (Japanese apricot) typically begins in late April and continues through May.

Hardiness Map