Cherry blossom trees, or ‘Sakura’ in Japanese, are loved the world over. But there is more to the the beloved trees and the phenomenon of Hanami than meets the eye. As cherry blossoms are a vital part of many cultural heritages, it’s understandable that lots of people want to know more, particuarly if they can eat their fruit.
The answer to the question of whether cherry blossom tree fruit edible is a complicated one. While the blossoms themselves are not edible, there are a few types of cherry trees whose fruit can be eaten. These include the Van and the Rainier, which are both especially popular in the United States and parts of Europe. However, the majority of cherry trees are ornamental, and their fruit are considered inedible.
The reason for this is because the majority of cherry blossom trees that you’ll see around the world are of the species Prunus, subgenus Cerasus, which is one of the two subgenera of Prunus. As such, their fruit has large pits and minimal edible flesh. Furthermore, the fruits of these trees often contain high amounts of amygdalin, a chemical compound also known as Laetrile, which releases cyanide when it’s digested.
The good news is that both Van and Rainier cherry blossom trees do have fruits that can be eaten raw and without fear. These are mostly cultivated varieties, and their fruit is not much larger than a pea. It is also very sweet, with a balanced taste that’s higher in tartness than sweetness. These varieties are incredibly popular among commercial orchards and backyard growers, as the fruits can be eaten fresh from the tree or baked into delicious desserts.
While there are plenty of cherry varieties that are edible and enjoyable, the same cannot really be said of Prunus subgenus Cerasus. As much as it would be great to gather up a bunch of these fruits and enjoy them like you would any other snack, it’s probably best to just admire their beauty and rejoice in their presence.
Cherry Blossom Trees and their Origins
Naturally, cherry blossom trees are native to temperate climates like those found in the Himalayas and parts of the Middle East. As they’ve spread around the world, so too has the tradition of Ahanami, or the practice of viewing the trees during their fleeting bloom.
However, it was originally Japan that cultivated the cherry blossom we know and love today. It does this by intentionally planting trees to create a stunning tapestry of color during the Spring. Plus, the short-lived blossoms serve as a powerful symbol of the fragility and beauty of life. Today, this particular appreciation for the beauty in nature has been spread around the world and can been seen whenever cherry blossom season takes place.
The Japanese have spent thousands of years cultivating more than 200 varieties of cherry blossoms, with trees blooming in colors that range from pale white to vibrant pinks. And while the number of varieties is extremely large, they’re mostly divided into two main categories: Yoshino and Okame. While Yoshino cherries are the most popular and common, Okame cherries are more brightly colored and many smaller varieties come from this type.
The Symbolism of Cherry Blossoms Around the World
Cherry blossoms have been symbols for beauty, renewal, and the idea of impermanence for as long as we can remember. In traditional Japanese culture, the blossoms were believed to represent the souls of the dead and were used as a reminder to enjoy life while it lasts. This same symbolism can be found in cultures around the world, such as in China, where the blossom’s association with life and death is referenced in books and poetry.
In the United States, cherry blossoms are just as meaningful, if not more so, than they are in Japan. Every spring, the National Cherry Blossom Festival is held in Washington, DC, to celebrate the 1912 donation of 3,000 cherry trees to the city by the Japanese government in honor of the growing friendship between the two countries. The festival is a testament to the strong ties between them, as well as to our appreciation of nature’s beauty.
Of course, Japanese cherry blossoms can’t possibly be the only type of tree that can bloom. In recent years, a variety of cherry blossoms from many other countries have been added to the landscapes of many cities around the world. For example, flower festivals are now held in Beijing in celebration of the blooming Apricot Blossom, and South Korea’s Gyeongju hosts Cherry Blossom festivals as well.
The Debate on Hanami in Japan
In Japan, the debate over the proper way to conduct the traditional Hanami event has been ongoing for some time. On one hand, purists believe that the traditional format should be upheld, with no foreign influences disrupting the cultural festivities. On the other hand, many say that accepting entertainment, like live music and performances, is necessary for the celebration to remain relevant and attractive to a younger generation.
Meanwhile, it’s estimated that as many as 10 million people take part in the festivities that take place in the many parks and temples around the country. And while the debate may not be settled anytime soon, the popularity of the event shows no signs of waning. For the people who take part in Hanami, it’s a chance to come together and celebrate life in all its beauty.
Popular Hanami locations
When it comes to Hanami, there are a few places in Japan that stand out above the rest. One of these is Ueno Park in Tokyo, which boasts over 1,000 cherry trees. The park also features a wide array of attractions and activities, from tea ceremonies and picnics to live music performances.
Matsuyama is another popular spot, thanks to its recently refurbished castle and its hundreds of cherry blossom trees that bloom in shades of white, yellow, and pink. The blossoms are known to last far longer here than in other cities, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of the trees during an extended period of time.
Miyajima Island, which is just off the coast of Hiroshima, is also a popular destination for Hanami festivities. Here, visitors can enjoy the stunning view of the giant Torii gate standing in the middle of the ocean and find hundreds of cherry trees atop Mt. Misen, which is the highest peak on the island.
The Best Cherry Blossom Treats
When gathered with friends and family to admire the beauty of the cherry blossoms, it’s only natural to want to enjoy some of their delicious fruit. Fortunately, rainier and van cherry blossom fruits can be used to make a wide array of treats, from cakes and jams to wines and juices. Not to mention, the fruits can also be infused into tea and are perfect for adding a bit of tartness to savory dishes.
The Japanese have been some of the biggest proponents of cherry blossom fruit dishes, having developed an array of sweets that make use of their delicate flavor. For example, Sakuramochi is a rice-cake treat that is stuffed with a sweet azuki bean paste, wrapped in a cherry blossom leaf, and often topped with pickled cherry blossoms. Unsurprisingly, this dish is popular all around the country and during the Hanami celebrations.
Another popular treat is the Sakura Anmitsu, which is a traditional Japanese dessert made with cubes of agar jelly, viscous red beans, fruits, and tasty glutinous rice dumplings. The finished product is colorful and very sweet, with a pleasant aroma of cherries and salt. This dish is a favorite of locals and tourists alike, and it’s a popular item at snacks stands and local restaurants.
Conclusion
From their history, symbolism, and different locations around the world to the treats that can be made with its edible fruit, cherry blossom trees offer a unique insight into many of the cultures that surround them. As far as the question of whether cherry blossom tree fruit edible is concerned, the answer is both yes and no. While the majority of them are ornamental, the Van and Rainier varieties can be used to make a wide array of delicious treats.
