Cherry blossoms, those delicate pink and white blooms that signal the arrival of spring, are beloved worldwide. But how do you actually identify a cherry blossom tree amongst other flowering trees? It's easier than you might think! This guide will help you confidently distinguish a cherry blossom tree from its look-alikes.
Key Characteristics of Cherry Blossom Trees (Prunus serrulata)
Several species fall under the "cherry blossom" umbrella, but the most commonly recognized is Prunus serrulata. Knowing its defining features will help you make a positive ID.
1. The Blossoms Themselves:
- Flower Structure: Cherry blossoms typically have five petals, although some cultivated varieties have more. Pay close attention to the number of petals – this can help differentiate them from other similar-looking trees.
- Flower Color: While pink is iconic, cherry blossom colors range from pure white to deep pink, and even red in some cultivars.
- Flowering Time: The blooming period is crucial. Cherry blossoms generally flower in early spring, often before the leaves fully emerge. This timing helps distinguish them from trees that bloom later in the season.
- Fragrance: Many cherry blossoms have a delicate, sweet fragrance, but not all. Smell the flowers if you're close enough – it can be a helpful clue, though not a definitive one.
2. The Leaves:
- Shape: Cherry blossom leaves are typically ovate (egg-shaped) with serrated (toothed) edges. Observe the leaf's shape and the distinct teeth along the margins.
- Color: New leaves are often bronze or reddish, gradually maturing to a deep green. Note the leaf color and any changes as the season progresses.
- Arrangement: Leaves are arranged alternately along the stem (not directly opposite each other).
3. The Bark:
- Texture & Color: The bark of cherry trees varies depending on the age and species, but often exhibits horizontal lenticels (small pores) and a smooth to slightly rough texture. Mature trees might develop fissures in their bark.
Differentiating Cherry Blossoms from Similar Trees:
Many trees have flowers that resemble cherry blossoms, leading to confusion. Here are some key distinctions:
1. Crabapples (Malus spp.):
Crabapples often have similar-sized flowers, but the flowers are usually clustered more tightly together than cherry blossoms. Crabapples also bear small, edible fruits, unlike most cherry blossom trees which produce inedible fruits (though some do have small cherries).
2. Plum Trees (Prunus domestica):
Plum blossoms are similar in shape and size but often have a single flower per stem, unlike cherry blossoms which frequently cluster. Plums will develop edible fruit, which cherry blossom trees generally don't.
3. Peach Trees (Prunus persica):
Peach blossoms are similar but often have a more pronounced separation between the petals. Additionally, peach trees will produce peaches!
Tips for Successful Cherry Blossom Tree Identification:
- Consult a field guide: Using a good field guide with pictures and descriptions is invaluable.
- Observe multiple trees: Comparing several trees helps establish a pattern and eliminate doubt.
- Check the location: Cherry blossoms are often planted in parks and gardens, whereas other similar trees might occur in wilder settings.
- Note the season: The timing of bloom is a vital element in identification.
By paying attention to the details of the blossoms, leaves, and bark, and understanding the characteristics of similar-looking trees, you’ll confidently identify those beautiful cherry blossom trees next spring. Happy identifying!
