Japanese Cherry, Sakura, Oriental Cherry
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Angiosperms, Class: Eudicots, Order: Rosales, Family: Rosaceae, Genus: Prunus, Species: P. serrulata · Rosaceae (Rose family) · Simple, Deciduous
Species
Prunus serrulata
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 inches wide, consistent with a mature specimen
Margin
Serrate (sharply toothed), often with tiny glands at the tips of the teeth
Arrangement
Alternate along the stem
Rarity
Very Common (extensively planted in urban and suburban landscapes for spring blossoms)
Color & Pattern
Deep green on the upper surface with a slightly paler underside; venation is lighter green; no variegation; typical healthy green without chlorosis
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with a prominent midrib and secondary veins arching toward the margin
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) and somewhat glossy on the upper surface; slightly leathery texture
Description
The leaf of the Japanese Cherry is known for its elegant teardrop shape and sharp teeth. The tree itself is small to medium-sized with a spreading crown, famous for its clouds of pink or white blossoms in spring. The bark is distinctive, featuring reddish-brown horizontal lenticels (slit-like pores) that remain visible even as the tree ages.
Key Features
Extrafloral nectaries (two small reddish glands) located on the petiole near the leaf base; sharply serrated margins; horizontal lenticels on the bark
Habitat
Well-drained soils, temperate climates; prefers full sun and consistent moisture
Geographic Range
Native to East Asia (Japan, China, Korea); widely naturalized and planted as an ornamental throughout North America and Europe
Condition Notes
Fair condition; some mechanical damage or insect herbivory visible on the right margin with irregular notches and minor browning at edge; overall green pigment indicates good chlorophyll levels
Interesting Facts
The cherry blossom (Sakura) is the national flower of Japan and symbolizes renewal and the fleeting nature of life. The famous cherry trees in Washington D.C. are Prunus serrulata varieties gifted by Japan in 1912.
Medicinal & Uses
Primarily used as an ornamental landscaping tree. The fruit is technically edible but small and bitter compared to sweet cherries; some cultures preserve the blossoms and leaves in salt (Sakurayu) for tea.
Ecological Role
Provides early-season nectar for bees and pollinators; fruits are a food source for birds, though cultivars with double-petaled flowers often fail to produce fruit.
Similar Species
Prunus avium (Sweet Cherry) has larger, more drooping leaves; Prunus virginiana (Chokecherry) has more finely serrated teeth and different fruit clusters.
Foraging Tips
Look for the tiny glands on the leaf stalk (petiole) to identify the Prunus genus. In spring, the showy blossoms are the best identifier; in summer, look for the horizontal lenticels on the bark.
Toxicity Warning
Moderately Toxic. Like many Prunus species, the wilting leaves, stems, and pits contain cyanogenic glycosides which can release cyanide if ingested in quantity. Safest to treat as non-edible for pets and humans.