【国際交流PRアソシエイトからの発信★】Sakura (桜)

---

岩手大学では、桜が満開になり、散策するのによい季節となりました。実は「桜」といっても様々な種類があるようです。タイ人留学生のRitt（リット）さんが、皆さんにわかりやすく教えてくれています。是非ご覧ください。

Here at Iwate University, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, making it a great season for strolling. In fact, there are many different types of cherry blossoms.Mr. Ritt, a Thai student,explains it in an easy to understand way for everyone. Let's take a look!

（言語：英語・タイ語）

Sakura (桜)

It's time! The moment we've all been waiting for has arrived. Sakura, or cherry blossoms, are in full bloom in Morioka, creating a breathtaking sight for everyone. Here's a question: do you know just how many types of sakura there are? Today, let's delve into the world of sakura and explore its diversity and beauty.

In Japan, there are around 200 varieties of sakura, and this number keeps growing as new cultivars are developed through breeding programs. Despite this vast array, sakura can be classified into primary categories based on flower color, petal shape, and blooming season. Let's take a look at some common types:

Somei Yoshino (Yoshino Cherry): This is perhaps the most beloved and widely planted variety in Japan. Its delicate white and light pink flowers, adorned with five petals, create a charming display. During full bloom, the tree is adorned solely with cherry blossoms, as the green leaves have yet to unfurl.

Oshima Zakura: While similar in appearance to Somei Yoshino, Oshima Zakura has a special feature - its cherry blossoms bloom together with the leaves. Moreover, the leaves of this variety have a lovely fragrance and are commonly used to wrap the Japanese treats known as "Sakura Mochi."

Yaezakura: These cherry blossoms have lots of petals stacked on top of each other, making them look super full and double-flowered.

Shidarezakura (Weeping Cherry): Renowned for its graceful, drooping branches and pink flowers, this variety is common in traditional Japanese gardens.

Kanzan: With its vibrant pink flowers blooming in clusters, Kanzan is a showstopper among cherry blossoms. Its double-flowered nature adds to its allure.

Ukon: Ukon cherry blossoms are pretty special with their soft yellow flowers, which you don't see often among sakura types.

These examples just touch upon the variety of sakura out there. And guess what? Each type can even have its subcategories and mixes, adding even more to Japan's beautiful cherry blossom scene. If you're curious to learn more about different types of sakura, check out this website:

https://www.tohoku-sakurakaido.jp/sakura/img/sakura/en/varieties.pdf

Furthermore, alongside Cherry blossoms, other flowers bloom simultaneously, such as Plum blossoms and Peach blossoms. Each type possesses distinct characteristics:

Peach Blossom: Oval petals, short stem, 2 flowers per bud.

Plum Blossom: Round petals, no stem, one flower per bud.

Cherry Blossoms: Long petals with lobes at the ends, long stems, blooming in clusters.

The blooming period varies for each flower type, influenced by factors like weather and location. Much like the diverse array of blooms, each person's life journey unfolds uniquely over time. So, the next time you have the opportunity to admire the flowers, take a moment to appreciate the intricate details of each sakura variety and revel in the beauty of spring.