Japan is famous for its stunning cherry blossoms, known as sakura, which bloom every spring in a magnificent display of colors. The country is home to several cherry blossom varieties, each with its unique characteristics and charm. Let's explore some of the most popular cherry blossom types and what makes them special!
Someiyoshino (染井吉野)
Someiyoshino is the most common cherry blossom variety found in Japan. This horticultural hybrid was created by crossing Ooshimazakura and Edohigan during the late Edo period to early Meiji era. Here are some key features:
- The flowers have a soft pink tint that becomes nearly white when fully bloomed.
- They bloom before the leaves emerge, enveloping the entire tree in flowers when in full bloom.
- As a cloned variety, all the Someiyoshino trees in a given area blossom simultaneously, creating a breathtaking sight.
Yamazakura (山桜)
Yamazakura is a wild cherry blossom species that grows naturally in the mountainous regions of Japan. Its distinctive traits include:
- New leaves take on a reddish hue that appears simultaneously with flowers.
- The flower colors range from white to pale pink, varying from tree to tree.
- With diverse shapes of trees and multiple flower and leaf colors, it provides a rich display of nature’s beauty.
Shidarezakura (枝垂桜)
Shidarezakura, also known as weeping cherry, has long branches that droop gracefully. It’s characterized by:
- Thin branches that hang like threads, giving it the nickname 'Itozakura'.
- Some trees are ancient, with ages surpassing 1,000 years, showcasing the rich history of these trees.
- Flower colors vary across different varieties, including shades of pink, white, and red.
Yaezakura (八重桜)
Yaezakura is famous for its multi-layered blossoms, offering a unique appearance. Its main features consist of:
- Flowers can display anywhere from 10 to 50 petals, making them look fluffy and full.
- This variety produces flowers in a broad spectrum of colors, from pure white to deep pink.
- It is often referred to as 'Satokakura' in local terms.
Edohigan (江戸彼岸)
Edohigan is a wild cherry species native to the mountainous areas of Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. Its notable characteristics are:
- The flowers are small, featuring light pink to white hues, consisting of five single petals.
- Remarkably long-lived, there are trees that have existed for over 1,000 years.
Aside from these popular types, there are many other cherry blossom varieties in Japan, including Kanhi-zakura, Ooshima-zakura, Taiwan cherry, Chrysanthemum cherry, and Yellow cherry. Each variety blooms at different times and has its unique characteristics, allowing travelers to experience a colorful and diverse display of cherry blossoms during their visit to Japan. Cherry blossom season is not just about the beauty of the flowers; it’s a celebration of nature, renewal, and the fleeting moments of spring, making it a perfect time for everyone to gather and enjoy the magical scenery.
