What Is Tokyo Cherry Blossoms?

Tokyo cherry blossoms are deciduous trees of the Malvaceae family and Rosales order. They are native to Japan and are cultivated in various locations around the world, including cities like Beijing, Xi’an, and Qingdao in China.

They have dense flowering with pink-colored flowers and can be planted individually or in groups in gardens, parks, lawns, lakesides, residential areas, and other locations. There are many horticultural varieties available for ornamental purposes.

1. Morphological characteristics of Tokyo cherry blossoms

Compared to the former, Tokyo cherry blossoms are generally taller, reaching a height of up to 16 meters. The bark is light purplish-brown, and the young branches are green with sparse soft hairs.

The leaf shape of Tokyo cherry blossoms is elliptical-ovate or inverted ovate, larger than the former, measuring about 5-12 centimeters in length and 2.5-7 centimeters in width. The stipules are lanceolate in shape.

The flowers of Tokyo cherry blossoms are arranged in umbrella-shaped inflorescences. The bracts are reddish-brown, and the petals are inverted ovate, with only pink coloration.

2. Growing habits of Tokyo cherry blossoms

The root system of Tokyo cherry blossoms is relatively shallow, and loose, well-draining sandy loam soil is most suitable for their growth.

Water: They require a significant amount of water. When watering, it is important to ensure thorough watering without creating waterlogging.

Nutrients: Acidic fertilizers are preferred for fertilization, as they provide sufficient nutrients for vigorous growth.

Light: While they require ample sunlight for better growth, they should not be exposed to direct intense sunlight.

3. Blooming period of Tokyo cherry blossoms

Cherry blossoms are the national flower of Japan, and in Japan, the cherry blossom season is celebrated during the period from March 15th to April 15th.

In reality, their blooming period typically lasts only 3-5 days. They choose to wither at their most splendid moment, embodying the spirit of cherry blossoms and representing the Japanese fascination with them.

4. Care Tips for Tokyo Cherry Blossoms

1. Soil: Choose loose, well-draining sandy loam soil for planting. Since the root system is relatively shallow, sandy loam soil is more suitable for their growth.
2. Water: Tokyo cherry blossoms are water-loving plants and have high water requirements. They need to be watered frequently, ensuring thorough watering without waterlogging.
3. Nutrients: Use acidic fertilizers for fertilization. Fertilize the plants twice, preferably in winter and after the flowers have fallen. Spread well-rotted fertilizer evenly around the plants or dissolve it in water for better nutrient absorption.
4. Light: Tokyo cherry blossoms prefer moderate sunlight with ample exposure. Sufficient light promotes faster and healthier growth. However, they should not be exposed to direct intense sunlight, as it can cause sunburn.

5. Cultivation Tips for Tokyo Cherry Blossoms

1. Pruning: After planting, remove withered branches, tangled branches, and branches affected by pests and diseases through pruning. Dispose of the pruned branches properly to avoid infecting other healthy branches. Pruning ensures better light penetration and air circulation for vigorous growth.
2. Propagation: Propagation is often done through grafting, which has a higher success rate. Grafting is typically done in late March or late August. Insert the branch into the rootstock and cover it with a thin film for insulation.

6. Symbolism of Tokyo Cherry Blossoms

Meaning: Cherry blossoms symbolize passion, happiness, nobility, purity, and detachment.

Legend: According to legend, cherry blossoms were originally white. It is said that a brave warrior committed seppuku (ritual suicide by disembowelment) under his beloved cherry blossom tree, believing that he had reached his most glorious moment and chose to end his life.

As a result, the blood flowed like a river, and the cherry blossoms turned red. Therefore, the more red the petals, the more it signifies the presence of lost souls.