If you've ever come across a fruit that looks like an apricot but isn’t, chances are you’ve seen a Japanese plum, commonly known as Ume (梅). These small, round, yellow-orange fruits are often mistaken for apricots due to their similar appearance, but they are a unique species with their own flavor profile, culinary uses, and nutritional benefits.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes Japanese plums special, how they differ from apricots, and what foods they compare well with.
What Are Japanese Plums (Ume)?
The Japanese plum, or Prunus mume, is a species of fruit native to East Asia, especially Japan, Korea, and China. Despite being called a plum, it is genetically closer to an apricot than a European plum.
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Appearance: Small, round, and often yellow-green or orange
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Taste: Very sour and astringent when raw
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Texture: Firm flesh with a central pit
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Other Names: Ume (Japan), Maesil (Korea), Meizi (China)
Japanese Plums vs Apricots: Key Differences
| Feature | Japanese Plum (Ume) | Apricot |
|---|---|---|
| Family | Prunus mume | Prunus armeniaca |
| Appearance | Yellow-green, firm, smooth | Orange-yellow, velvety skin |
| Taste | Sour, bitter, tart | Sweet, slightly tangy |
| Usage | Fermented (umeboshi), syrups | Eaten fresh or dried |
| Season | Late spring to early summer | Early to mid-summer |
While they look alike, Japanese plums are rarely eaten raw. They are typically fermented, pickled, or used in sauces and syrups.
Health Benefits of Japanese Plums (Ume)
1. Boosts Digestion
Umeboshi (fermented Japanese plums) are known for aiding digestion and preventing nausea. They're traditionally used in Japan as a natural remedy for stomach issues and even hangovers.
2. Rich in Antioxidants
Japanese plums are high in polyphenols, which help fight oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
3. Supports Liver Health
Ume extract is believed to protect the liver from toxins and support detoxification.
4. Improves Immunity
Thanks to its high vitamin C and antibacterial properties, ume can enhance the immune response and protect against infections.
5. Alkalizes the Body
Despite their sour taste, umeboshi are considered alkaline-forming foods, helping maintain the body's pH balance.
Nutrition Profile (Per 1 Pickled Umeboshi Plum)
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Calories: ~10
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Carbohydrates: 2–3g
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Sodium: High (due to pickling)
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Vitamin C: Small amounts
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Antioxidants: Polyphenols, flavonoids
Note: Due to their high sodium content, umeboshi should be eaten in moderation.
Culinary Uses of Japanese Plums
1. Umeboshi (Pickled Ume)
A staple in Japanese cuisine, umeboshi are extremely sour-salty pickled plums, often served with rice or inside onigiri (rice balls).
2. Umeshu (Plum Wine)
A sweet and tangy alcoholic beverage made by soaking ume in sugar and alcohol. Umeshu is popular for its smooth taste and subtle fruitiness.
3. Ume Syrup & Vinegar
Used in drinks and salad dressings, ume syrup adds a tart and refreshing flavor.
Similar Fruits That Resemble Ume or Apricots
1. Pluots & Apriums
Hybrid fruits of plum and apricot—sweet like plums, tangy like apricots.
2. Loquats
Small yellow-orange fruits native to Asia, often mistaken for apricots.
3. Persimmons
Though larger, some varieties of persimmons look like firm apricots when underripe.
How Japanese Plums Compare with Other Foods
| Food | Vitamin C | Antioxidants | Fermented Use | Taste Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Japanese Plum | Moderate | High | Yes (umeboshi) | Sour, astringent |
| Apricot | High | Moderate | No | Sweet, tangy |
| Prune (Dried Plum) | Low | High | No | Sweet, soft |
| Lemon | Very High | Moderate | Yes (preserved) | Sour |
| Kimchi | Low | Very High | Yes | Spicy, sour |
Where to Buy Japanese Plums or Ume Products
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Asian grocery stores: Especially in spring or early summer
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Online: Umeboshi, umeshu, or ume extract can be bought from specialty Japanese food retailers
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Farmer's markets: Occasionally offer fresh Ume during harvest season
Final Thoughts
Japanese plums, or Ume, may resemble apricots at first glance, but they’re a distinct and culturally significant fruit in East Asian traditions. From fermented umeboshi to sweet plum wine, Ume offers not only a unique taste but also powerful health benefits. Compared with other stone fruits, it stands out due to its bold flavor and medicinal uses.
If you're looking to expand your fruit intake or try something new in your diet, give Japanese plums a try—just don’t eat them raw without proper preparation!
