Beauty Of Cherry Blossoms
Published Date: Apr 1, 2015
Cherry blossom trees have a long and storied history dating back to their country of origin, Japan, where "Sakura" are an important part of many cultural celebrations. These trees and their beautiful pink blooms have been celebrated in the art and literature of Japan for many centuries, in large part because of the romantic nature of their short-lived blooms. Because they bloom so vibrantly and for such a short period, cherry blossoms symbolize both the beauty and the fleeting nature of life in Japanese culture.
To this day in Japan, flower viewing celebrations are an important part of the country's culture - a tradition that has been brought to America, as many people flock to areas such as Washington, D.C. for the National Cherry Blossom Festival.
The festival is so well known as a United States tradition that many people have forgotten its origins, but of course even this celebration in the nation's capital has strong Japanese roots. The annual festival honors a gift of 3,000 cherry blossom trees made to America as a sign of friendship between the two countries. Other notable collections of cherry trees include the oldest and largest in the nation in Belleview, New Jersey and the 2,000 cherry blossom trees at Lake Balboa in Van Nuys.
A cherry blossom tree can make a great addition to any garden. Though their romantic blooms have a very short life, the character of the tree is such that it continues to make a statement throughout the rest of the year. While pink is the traditional color of cherry blossoms, and the best-known, other varieties are available. You can easily find blooms in white as well as in very deep pink or even purple. Growers cultivate specific varieties of cherry blossom tree for those that live in warmer climates, a factor that extends the growth zones for these beautiful flowering trees.
Their origins make cherry blossom trees the perfect addition to any Japanese themed garden. Elements such as water elements, bamboo furniture, and other trees such as vibrant, bright red Japanese maple and Asian grasses are perfect for crafting an outdoor space with an Asian twist. Just as the annual celebration in Washington, D.C. is as much an American institution as it is one rooted in Japanese culture, you can combine these Asian elements with uniquely American landscaping to craft an outdoor space that combines the best of both worlds.
The delicate white and light pink color of cherry blossoms means that they pair perfectly with white garden furniture and romantic decorative elements. Other colors such as pale Tiffany blue also pair well with the pink of cherry blossoms.
While they may only bloom for a short time each year, it is well worth taking these design details into consideration if you have a cherry blossom tree in your yard. Remember to take the time to plan your flower viewing party when your cherry blossom tree blooms. A gathering with good food, drinks, and your closest friends and family allows you to enjoy an authentic flower viewing experience right in your backyard, just as the Japanese have been doing for centuries.
