Description
Shiro-Kaga is one of the most widely grown and traditionally used ume apricots in Japan. Known for its prolific white blossoms and dependable fruiting, it has long been favored for both ornamental display and culinary processing.
Beyond its early spring bloom, Shiro-Kaga reliably produces large, tart ume fruit when mature. These fruits are not intended for fresh eating, but are highly valued for traditional uses such as umeboshi (salt-pickled ume), ume syrup, and umeshu. Because of its consistent fruit set and larger fruit size, Shiro-Kaga is often considered one of the best ume varieties for processing.
Overview
- Traditional Japanese ume apricot with white blossoms.
- Reliable producer of large tart ume fruit.
- Highly regarded for umeboshi and preserving.
- Early flowering with strong ornamental appeal.
- Well suited to home gardens and specialty orchards.
Growing Details
Latin Name: Prunus mume ’Shiro-Kaga’
Site and Soil: 1/2 day to full day of sun; well-drained soil essential
Rootstock: Myro 29C
Hardiness: USDA Zones 5–8
Bearing Age: 2–4 years (for ume fruit)
Size at Maturity: Typically 12–18 ft tall and wide (maintained smaller with pruning)
Bloom Time: Late winter to early spring
Ripening Time: Early to mid-summer
Pollination Requirements: Self-fertile; fruit set can improve with a second ume nearby
Pests & Diseases: Similar to other apricots; good airflow and drainage reduce issues
Additional Notes
- Grower’s Insight: Shiro-Kaga is widely regarded as one of the best ume cultivars for processing due to its large fruit size and consistent yields.
- Regional Insight: Shiro-Kaga performs well in the Pacific Northwest, Mid-Atlantic, and other regions with cool winters that support strong flowering and reliable fruit set.
- This tree reliably produces ume fruit when mature; the fruit is traditionally used for umeboshi, syrups, and liqueurs rather than fresh eating.
- Harvest ume fruit while firm and green for traditional processing.
- Explore more apricot varieties in our collection: Apricot Trees
