SAKURA BLOSSOMING - HERALD OF SPRING'S BEGINNING

FLOWERING TIME

Sakura (Latin: Prunus serrulata), often also called "Japanese cherry", is a decorative tree from the plum family, distinguished by its particularly magnificent and early flowering. For abundant flowering, sakuras need sun – they are light-demanding trees, and sufficient light promotes the quantity and intensity of flowers. This early flowering gives them a special place among ornamental trees. While other trees are still awakening from winter, sakuras are already in full bloom, bringing color and vibrancy to both urban environments and private gardens. They often serve as a symbolic start to spring – a brief but bright moment.

A CLOUD OF PINK BLOSSOMS

The sakura is known for its abundant, lush flowering – its branches are covered in dense clusters of pink flowers that, from a distance, form an almost continuous cloud. The color of the flowers can vary from pale pink to intensely bright, depending on the variety. Flowering typically lasts two to three weeks, but during this time the tree attracts special attention and becomes a central element in the landscape.

WHEN DO SAKURAS BLOOM IN LATVIA?

In Latvia, the sakura blooming period typically falls from the end of April to the beginning of May. The precise timing depends on the course of spring – warm, sunny weather can accelerate it, while a cooler and rainier spring can delay flowering slightly. Several sakura plantings have already been established in Latvia, for example, in Uzvaras Park in Riga and the Salaspils Botanical Garden, where their splendor can be observed in the spring.

ADVANTAGES IN GARDENING

One of the advantages of sakuras is their decorative nature – they do not produce edible fruit, so special care or attention to fruit is not required. This simplifies maintenance, as there is no need to worry about fallen fruit or potential pests. Thus, sakuras are particularly suitable for those who desire beautiful blossoms without the extra care later in the season.

VARIOUS FORMS - VARIOUS IMPRESSIONS

Sakuras are available in both single-stem and multi-stem forms. Single-stem trees offer a classic, structured look that fits well in more formal plantings, while multi-stem forms create result in a more natural look. Depending on the location where they are planted, it is possible to choose the most suitable option, but in any case, a sakura will always be a pleasing and seasonally expressive accent.

Location: Ola Foundation art gallery, Ogļu iela 12A, Rīga

Design: Ruta Gabranova, Ansis Birznieks

Garden construction and maintenance: GALANTUS

Photo: Baiba Birzniece, Sintija Nagle