Japanese apricot (Prunus mume), or Chinese plum is once again blooming here at the museum.

At about the same time every year I report on this small tree coming into flower. It’s obviously an early bloomer. Each year around mid-January it sets forth its one inch pink, yellow stamened blooms.

Originating in China, It’s been cultivated for some 1500 years around the world.

Our little tree is along side the path just across from the east entrance to the Farm Yard.

The trees, or shrubs (there are several around the campus), are either volunteers planted by some fruit-eating bird or part of a long absent landscaper’s plan to bring early color to our fine campus.

Enjoy!