Flowering cherry trees are so distinct that they have become synonymous with spring, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the National Cherry Blossom Festival rings in the arrival of spring each year. Cherry blossoms come from the genus, Prunus, and are usually followed by small cherries that attract birds in summer. Unfortunately and unlike the cherries that you buy in the store, these cherries are a little too sour for humans’ tastes.
Have a sun-drenched spot in your yard that most trees and shrubs can’t handle? Plant a flowering cherry tree there! These trees actually prefer direct sunlight, although they can also live in partial shade. Just make sure to give your tree enough room to grow, and consult a professional landscaping company like High Tech to choose the right variety for your landscape.
Did You Know?
Despite cherry blossoms’ strong ties to Japanese culture, gardens in Japan typically don’t include flowering cherries like Americanized Japanese gardens do. This is because of their short blooming time of just one to two weeks, which the Japanese liken to the ephemerality of life itself.
Other Fun Facts About Flowering Cherry Trees
- Cherry blossoms are Japan’s national flower.
- Some of the oldest flowering cherry trees on Earth can be found in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden in New York City.
- Washington, D.C.’s National Cherry Blossom Festival is first and foremost a celebration of the friendship between the U.S. and Japan. In 1912, Japan sent Washington cherry trees to represent goodwill, to which Washington reciprocated by sending dogwood trees to Japan.
- Cherry blossom is the best-selling fragrance in the U.S.
Want a cherry tree? Contact High Tech Landscapes about our tree service.
