The Yoshino Cherry, Prunus x yedoensis in mid spring is smothered in delicately-scented, palest pink blossom, a magnet for visitors on the Main Lawn.
The Yoshino Cherry is joined a little later by Prunus cyclaminea in a spectacular duo of bride and bridesmaid! This species also has clusters of pale pink flowers, but the pink-bronze foliage that also emerges creates a more textured effect.
In Japan, huge 'hanami' festivals are held when families and friends gather for picnics and celebrations under the flowering cherries - the Japanese meteorological office issue a cherry blossom forecast for the few short weeks of the season to help everyone plan their parties. Perhaps we should encourage it to catch on in Cambridge?
