Prunus+Mume

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**Prunus Mume**
The Prunus Mume (flowering tree) also known as the Japanese apricot, first originated in China and later extended into other parts of eastern Asia. In addition, the Prunus Mume made its way to Great Britain in the mid-nineteenth century.
 * Historical Origin:**

The Japanese apricot's delicate nature is represented in paintings and poetry throughout eastern Asia (i.e. China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam). In these countries, this ornamental tree is a part of the Four Gentlemen (four plants), which are the orchid, bamboo, chrysanthemum, and the Prunus Mume. Traditionally, learning how to paint the Four Gentlemen has been an important step in mastering oriental art. In China, the flowering tree is known for its winter blossoms. The blossoms are a beautiful contrast to the snow and other plants that have lost their flowers, and beauty for the winter. Furthermore, In Japanese poetry the Prunus Mume is a symbol for early spring. Additionally, Mai, the Vietnamese name for the Prunus Mume, is a common name for girls. Finally, the Prunus Mume's fruit is used in juices, liquor, sauce, and the fruit is often pickled.
 * Cultural Significance of the Plant**

The Prunus Mume was imported to the United States from China and the eastern Asian countries in the mid nineteenth century.Today, the Prunus Mume grows in the hardiness zones 6-9 in the United States. North Carolina falls just between the hardiness zones 5-10. Therefore, the Prunus Mume would grow rapidly in full sun to partial shade in North Carolina.
 * Importation or Cultivation of the Plant in the United States**:

Plants play a huge role in our global society. In the United States, every state has an official tree and flower that is chosen because of its beauty and importance to the region. Most of the state trees are native to the region; however, the flowers are not native to the region. Also, in countries like Japan, China, Korea, and Vietnam, plants are used as symbols in art and literature, as well as used for culinary and medicinal purposes.
 * What We Can Learn About Culture:**

Sources: http://www.ndsu.edu/pubweb/chiwonlee/plsc368/student/papers03/ccharpentier/charpentier_cedric4.html http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/consumer/factsheets/trees-new/prunus_mume.html http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prunus_mume