The Definition of Cherry Blossom & Cherry Tree
Cherry blossom is the flower of the cherry tree. They are small cluster blossoms that have five petals and come in shades of pink and white. They are often associated with the Japanese culture as they are commonly found in cherry blossom-filled gardens and landscapes throughout the country. Cherry blossom, or “sakura” in Japanese, has deep meanings in the culture such as renewal and youth.
The cherry tree, on the other hand, is a deciduous two-hundred-year-old tree. The fruit of the tree is the cherry, which is a small, round, and red fruit, but can also be yellow or black. It can grow to a height of 8-10 metres and is known for its fragrant intensity that is released from the small bunches of flowers that grow in the spring. The cherry tree also symbolizes and celebrates friendship in Japan.
Cherry Blossom vs Cherry Tree: A Comparison
The differences between the cherry blossom and the cherry tree can be observed by looking at the features that define each plant. To start, cherry blossoms have five petals and are of a pink and white hue, while cherry trees have small round fruit, that can be red, yellow, and black, with a minimum height of 8-10 metres. In terms of symbolism and meaning, cherry blossom is synonymous with renewal and youth in Japan, while the cherry tree is viewed as a representation of friendship.
The cherry blossom and the cherry tree are also associated with different climatic conditions and seasonality. Cherry blossoms typically blossom from late March to late April and the beauty of the flower can only be experienced for a few weeks as the petals start to fall to the ground quickly. The cherry tree, on the other hand, is a two-hundred-year-old tree and its fruit starts to appear in the summer and can be harvested for about a month.
The Value of Cherry Blossom & Cherry Tree
Cherry blossom has many cultural and aesthetic values and is often used in fashion, artwork, music, and poetry. The sight of cherry blossom-filled gardens in Japan is an experience that cannot be compared with any other and has brought joy and happiness to many Japanese citizens. On the other hand, cherry trees have tremendous economic value and not only provide fruit, but also products such as jams, juices, and syrups.
For many people, cherry blossom is also a symbol of friendship and represents a moment for shared experiences with their friends. This can mean taking photos amongst the cherry blossom-filled gardens or having a picnic under the cherry blossom trees. In terms of cherry trees, the symbolic values vary depending on the region however, in general, they are often associated with peace and prosperity.
The Significance of Cherry Blossom & Cherry Tree in Japanese Culture
Cherry blossom and cherry tree have had a significant role in Japanese culture for centuries. From the 8th century, cherry blossom has been an important symbol in the culture and is associated with renewal and youth. People have also associated cherry blossom gardens with moments of joy and happiness which are reflected in art, music, and poetry.
Cherry trees have long been a part of Japanese culture and the harvesting of the cherry fruit has played an important part in the lives of many Japanese families. The cherry tree is also viewed as a symbol of peace and prosperity and is often used to signify at weddings, festivals, and other important events. In some areas, it is believed to bring good luck and fortune.
The Uniqueness of Cherry Blossom & Cherry Tree
Despite the similar nature and appearance of cherry blossom and cherry tree, each possesses its own unique markings. The cherry blossom is known for its fragrant and sophisticated display of beauty meanwhile; the cherry tree is revered for its fruit and economic usage such as jams and syrups. In Japan, cherry blossom signifies renewal and youth while, cherry trees are symbolic of peace and prosperity.
Cherry blossom gardens and cherry tree fruit harvesting can each be experienced in a unique manner. The beauty of the cherry blossom flower can only be experienced for a few weeks, while the cherry tree fruit can be harvested for approx. 1 month. This versatility allows each individual to experience the cherry blossom and cherry tree in its own special way.
The Impact of Climate Change on Cherry Blossom & Cherry Tree
Due to climate change, the traditional bloom period of cherry blossoms all over Japan has been extended from 5 weeks to 8 weeks. This has provided cherry blossom enthusiasts with more opportunities to witness the beauty of the flower. Some experts predict that it may further extend but the uncertainty of the climate creates an unpredictable environment. On the hand, the cherry tree fruit production has decreased due to the shorter bloom period.
In addition, the limited water resources in Japan due to climate change could also affect the natural ecosystem of the cherry blossom and cherry tree. As water is scarce, some trees may not be able to survive and, and as a result, could potentially die or have reduced in number.
The Effect of Plant Disease on Cherry Blossom & Cherry Tree
Like with other plants, cherry blossom and cherry tree could be affected by numerous diseases. Brown rot is the most common fungal disease that affects these plants and can be identified by the dark spots that form on the fruits. Phytophthora root rot is another infection that can potentially damage cherry trees and cherry blossom buds. This disease is caused by waterlogged soil and can destroy the beauty of a garden filled with cherry blossoms as the buds fall off.
The spread of these diseases can be reduced by proper maintenance of the plants. Things such as correct pruning and trimming, careful watering regimes, and avoiding too much fertilizer will help maintain the health of cherry blossom and cherry tree.
Cherry Blossom & Cherry Tree: A Summary
Cherry blossom and cherry tree possess many significant cultural, economic, and aesthetic values in Japan. They are both known for their beauty, with the pink and white hue of the cherry blossom and the small round fruit of the cherry tree. The cherry blossom is considered to be a sign of renewal and youth while the cherry tree is a symbol of peace and prosperity.
Though both have numerous unique features, they can be affected by climate change and various plant diseases. Climate change could potentially extend the bloom period of cherry blossoms, however, the shorter bloom period may cause a decrease in the cherry tree fruit production. Brown rot and Phytophthora root rot are two the most common fungal diseases that affect these plants and can cause damages if left untreated.
In summary, the cherry blossom and the cherry tree provide many values to the Japanese culture. Though similar in appearance, these plants have many unique differences that make them distinct from each other.
