Japanese Cherry, Oriental Cherry, Sakura
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Rosales, Family: Rosaceae, Genus: Prunus, Species: Prunus serrulata · Rosaceae (Rose family) · Simple, Deciduous
Species
Prunus serrulata (Confidence: 90%)
Leaf Type
Simple, Deciduous
Family
Rosaceae (Rose family)
Shape
Ovate to elliptical with an acuminate (long-pointed) tip
Size
Approximately 3-5 inches long and 1.5-2.5 inches wide, which is standard for a mature specimen.
Margin
Serrate (sharply toothed), often described as aristate due to the long, needle-like tips on the teeth.
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Common (Extermely common in urban landscaping and parks)
Color & Pattern
Deep green upper surface; slightly paler underside. No variegation visible. Autumn colors usually transition to bronze, yellow, or crimson.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate (feather-like) with prominent midrib and secondary veins curving toward the apex.
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) upper surface; may have small glands at the base of the blade or on the petiole.
Description
A medium-sized deciduous tree reaching 25-40 feet. It is famous for its stunning spring display of white to pink flowers. The bark is typically smooth and reddish-brown with horizontal lenticels.
Key Features
The long, hair-like tips on the serrated marginal teeth (aristate serrations) and the presence of small glands on the petiole.
Habitat
Temperate climates, well-drained soils, full sun. Often found in cultivated gardens, parks, and residential landscapes.
Geographic Range
Native to Japan, China, and Korea. Widely introduced across North America and Europe as an ornamental tree.
Condition Notes
Good condition; the leaf is mature and vibrant. Minor mechanical tearing at the base, likely from being plucked or wind damage.
Interesting Facts
The cherry blossom (Sakura) is the national flower of Japan and symbolizes renewal and the fleeting nature of life. The 1912 gift of these trees to Washington D.C. created the famous Cherry Blossom Festival.
Medicinal & Uses
Primarily ornamental. The bark has been used in traditional medicines as an antitussive, but the wood is also prized for fine carving and furniture.
Ecological Role
Provides early spring nectar for pollinators like bees. The fruit (though small and bitter in ornamentals) is consumed by birds.
Similar Species
Prunus yedoensis (Yoshino Cherry) - has hairier petioles; Prunus avium (Wild Cherry) - has coarser teeth and larger leaves.
Foraging Tips
Look for these in early spring when the blossoms are unmistakable. In summer, look for the horizontal lines (lenticels) on the bark and the distinct long-tipped teeth on the leaves.
Toxicity Warning
Highly Toxic: Like most Prunus species, the seeds, bark, and leaves contain cyanogenic glycosides which can release cyanide if ingested.