genius shows from childhood; a great person's talent is evident early
Proverb meaning that exceptional people show their qualities from a young age, just as the fragrant Japanese bead tree (栴檀) is already fragrant when it first sprouts. The literal meaning is often explained when using the proverb.
He was good at drawing since he was a child. Truly, genius shows from childhood.
The proverb 'the Japanese bead tree is fragrant from when a sprout' means that a talented person shows their ability from a young age.
A classical Japanese proverb of uncertain origin, often traced to Chinese literature where a similar idea appears. The Japanese bead tree (栴檀) is known for its fragrant wood, and the proverb uses its early fragrance as a metaphor for precocious talent.