Rare Cherry Blossoms Discovered on Ancient Tomb Grounds in Kobe
Arborists in Kobe City, Japan, have identified and are cultivating a rare variety of cherry blossom found on the grounds of ancient burial mounds (kofun), specifically the Ozuka and Nusazuka tumuli. Kiyohiro Shikata, a local arborist, first noticed the unusual trees in 2007 due to their late blooming period around April 20th, contrasting with typical wild cherries in the region. Further observation revealed unique characteristics, such as flowers blooming before leaves appear and petals that remain partially closed rather than flattening out. In 2019, Shikata collaborated with Takayuki Fujiwara, a cherry blossom expert from the Japanese Cherry Blossom Society, to study these trees. Despite some older trees losing vigor, the experts are successfully growing successor trees, designating this distinct strain as a new local specialty named the 'Ozuka Princess.' The discovery highlights the intersection of cultural heritage preservation and botanical science, as the Imperial Household Agency restricts access to these historic sites. This effort ensures the genetic lineage of these unique blossoms, described as a time capsule from the past, is preserved and connected to the future for local appreciation and scientific interest.
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Rare Cherry Blossoms Discovered on Ancient Tomb Grounds in Kobe
Arborists in Kobe City, Japan, have identified and are cultivating a rare variety of cherry blossom found on the grounds of ancient burial mounds (kofun), specifically the Ozuka and Nusazuka tumuli. Kiyohiro Shikata, a local arborist, first noticed the unusual trees in 2007 due to their late blooming period around April 20th, contrasting with typical wild cherries in the region. Further observation revealed unique characteristics, such as flowers blooming before leaves appear and petals that remain partially closed rather than flattening out. In 2019, Shikata collaborated with Takayuki Fujiwara, a cherry blossom expert from the Japanese Cherry Blossom Society, to study these trees. Despite some older trees losing vigor, the experts are successfully growing successor trees, designating this distinct strain as a new local specialty named the 'Ozuka Princess.' The discovery highlights the intersection of cultural heritage preservation and botanical science, as the Imperial Household Agency restricts access to these historic sites. This effort ensures the genetic lineage of these unique blossoms, described as a time capsule from the past, is preserved and connected to the future for local appreciation and scientific interest.
asahi