Ume, commonly known as the Japanese plum, is a fruit-bearing tree native to East Asia. It produces small, round fruits that are typically green or yellow when unripe and turn reddish or purplish as they mature. Ume is often used to make umeboshi, a traditional Japanese pickled plum, and umeshu, a sweet plum wine. The ume tree blooms in early spring, showcasing beautiful pink or white flowers before the leaves appear. It thrives in temperate climates and is cultivated in various regions, particularly in Japan, Korea, and China. Ume is valued not only for its culinary uses but also for its cultural significance in these countries.