Sakura tree: is it a cherry or a plum?

Japan is a country of centuries-old traditions and symbols. One of them is sakura. In the country this plant is given very great attention. There is a belief that a person who does not see the beauty of nature can not be trusted, because he has a heart made of stone. Admire the flowering spring garden people from all over the world come to. This tree is completely unfamiliar to us. Therefore, many are concerned with the question of whether cherry is a cherry or plum. According to its external data, it resembles both of these trees. We will try to answer this question.

Introduction

The beauty of trees is appreciated not only in Japan. In Russia cherry orchards have always been considered symbolic. To appease the god of cherries, Kernis, on young plants candles were lit. This was the key to the future good harvest. Gradually, this custom was adopted by some European nations. They also gave cherry trees a special meaning. Their flowering has always been associated with youth, beauty and the birth of a new life. The Japanese also have a special relationship with flowering trees. The question immediately arises about what is common in these traditions. Is Sakura a cherry or a plum? Let's try to understand.

Beautiful legend

First, let's talk about a beautiful legend, according to which the reverence for cherry blossom arose. The Japanese have an opinion that the flowers that blossom in early spring are the destinies of children. Very long ago the foreman of the village led to the ruler of his children and showed him the scars on their backs, which appeared because of cruel treatment of the prince's servants. It was a very brave act. The ruler punished the prince, and he harbored resentment against the sergeant-major. He took his family high into the mountains and tied them to a cherry. Then they were screwed to death. They say that since then, the cherry flowers in Japan have a pink hue. This is the answer to the question "Is Sakura a cherry or a plum?". Those who know this legend, falling petals, torn from the sakura by the wind, cause sadness and sadness.

Bloom

What is sakura like? Cherry or plum blossom almost the same. They have some differences that are not immediately apparent. But the cherry blossoms have a delicious, gently pink color. To get into this garden in this period is to plunge into the world of magic. Many poets sing sakura blossom in their works. Spring in Japan is inextricably linked with the tree described. Those who managed to visit the country during this period and observe the flowering, for a long time can not forget the magnificent and enchanting process. Delicate flowers and delicate aroma evoke thoughts of beauty and serenity.

Japanese holiday

For Japanese, cherry blossom is always a holiday. To this event are prepared very carefully. Locals know exactly, sakura is a cherry or plum. It grows throughout the country: in mountainous areas, in parks of cities and temples, along the banks of rivers. In early spring, when the cherry blossom blooms, there is a holiday in every village. All inhabitants are located under trees, strewn with flowers. They come here whole families or in the company of friends. People spread mats out of straw and admire the beauty created by nature itself. Traditionally, the Japanese celebrate this event with the family and the second time with their colleagues. Settled comfortably under the trees, people organize a small feast, the main food of which are rice balls.

history of the holiday

The history of the holiday goes deep into the past. As evidence shows, this custom was born in the period from the 8th to the 12th century. The Japanese nobility loved to spend time under the sprawling flowering trees. She enjoyed the beauty of nature, composed poems, drank drinks and played games. The aristocracy differed in exquisite manners and grace. Its representatives attached great importance to the flowering trees and saw this as a profound meaning. Gradually, the tradition became widespread and became part of the culture of Japan. It was the cherry blossoms that became the symbol of perfection and perfection.

Modern tendencies

The time of cherry blossoming does not last long. This period is only a few days, and sometimes several hours. Today, thanks to special services, people are always informed about the moment of flowering. The Meteorological Service compiles a calendar of exact dates of flowering in all regions of the country. Special investigations are carried out for this purpose. Through the media, residents are informed about the places of cherry blossom. In large cities on this occasion, special celebrations are held. So, in Kyoto there passes a holiday of Sakura matsuri on which organize costumed parades and dance "dances of cherries". In the city of Nara, a procession is taking place, on which cherry branches are carried by children and young women.

What is sakura

Many people ask this question: "What is a cherry tree - is it a cherry or a plum?". Many people interpret the answer in different ways. Often this tree is called Japanese cherry. But the real plant under this name is a low shrub that is used as a decorative ornament of the garden. According to experts, sakura in Japan called some types of cherries and even bird cherries. Therefore, when answering the question about what the sakura is, it's a cherry or a plum, it's safe to say that the first option is correct.

But there is a downside to the coin. Very often, in order to prolong the flowering time of trees and enjoy the beauty, in Japan some varieties of other trees are used. It can be plum, cherry, almond, peach, bird cherry or apricot. That's why you can enjoy the beauty of flowering plants for a longer time. It's no wonder that many people have a reasonable question about whether sakura is a cherry or a plum. A photo of the flowering of trees can be found in the article.

Decorative cherry

A real Japanese cherry belongs to heat-loving plants. Therefore, in our country it is very rare. It can be seen in the botanical garden. Today there are about 16 species of this tree and more than 400 varieties. These are plants of different shapes and sizes. They are united by a very beautiful and short-term flowering. Sakura refers to benthic angiospermous plants. Many people mistakenly claim that the described plant has no fruit. This is not true. There are fruits of sakura. This is a cherry or plum, we have already figured it out. But the berries themselves do not resemble either one or the other. They are small, tough and sour. There is no special taste in them. They make wine or add to rice dishes. Also cherry fruit is pickled.

Cultivation

As already mentioned, sakura in our regions is hard to survive because of the severe climate. But there are some varieties from the northern regions of Japan, which can be grown in Russia. Sakura prefers very fertile soils. When planting it is necessary to provide a good drainage to the tree. A large amount of rainwater can kill sakura. The plant does not like drafts. Best of all, it grows and develops in a group of several trees. After a short flowering, small fruits appear. They keep up as cherries, but have a more sour taste. For planting, you should choose the seedlings, which are maximally adapted to our conditions. The seller can learn about the characteristics of cultivation. The tree will please you, though for a short time, but with an amazing flowering. For the sake of this unforgettable spectacle, you can make efforts and grow sakura on your site. But if this is not possible, then visit Japan - the country where the tree under consideration is given special attention.