Prunus Mume Rosebud

Characteristics

• “Rosebud” is a slightly shorter hybrid that matures to a height and width of only 12 feet with a bushy or shrubby appearance. Its shiny green foliage is rounded or oval and does not emerge on the tree until after it blooms. In the fall, the foliage becomes bronzy before dropping from the tree. The soft-pink flowers emerge all along the length of the stems in the winter to brighten the dreary landscape. They are double-form and about 1 inch wide with a light fragrance. The flowers are followed by small green apricots. They are edible but most people consider them too bitter to eat fresh. They are used to make jam or preserves, though, and can be pickled.

Growing Requirements

• “Rosebud” Japanese apricot trees are hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 6 to 9. A full-sun planting site will result in more prolific flowering. However, hot afternoon sun in USDA zones 8 and 9 can scorch the foliage. In these warmer climates, it should be planted where it gets six hours of direct sunlight in the morning with shade in the afternoon. Plant it in loamy, organically fertile soil that has a pH below 6.9. It will not thrive in dry, nutrient-poor soil. While this tree is moderately drought tolerant, it should be watered during lengthy dry periods. Give it a 16-4-8, 12-6-6 or 12-4-8 fertilizer in early spring. Pruning it each year right after it finishes flowering will result in new stem growth and more prolific blooming the following winter.

Landscape Uses

• They can be planted as specimen trees in the center of the lawn, off the corner of the house or near patios, decks and porches. Multiple trees can be planted along a property line to form a screen. They can be grown in containers and are suitable for bonsai. The stems can be cut while the tree is blooming and brought indoors for cut-flower arrangements or cut before it begins to bloom and forced indoors.

Diseases

• Root rot can occur if the “Rosebud” tree is planted in wet, slow-draining soil and bacterial cankers can occur if the tree is injured. Rust and brown rot fruit fungi may attack the tree but are rarely serious. The infected leaves, fruit and branches can be pruned off and removed from the property. It is susceptible to verticillium wilt, which is fatal. The tree may live for only one week or several years after being infected.

Pests

• Aphids, borers, scales, spider mites and tent caterpillars may attack these trees. Aphids and spider mites can be controlled by spraying the tree with a strong spray of water. Scales can be removed by hand or sprayed with insecticidal soap. Prune off and throw away branches that are heavily infested with scales or tent caterpillars; always disinfect your pruners to prevent the spread of disease. Borers may attack the tree if it is suffering from water stress or nutrient deficiencies.