If you live in Hawaii or have visited our island state, you are probably familiar with many of our beautiful tropical flowers. Who doesn’t love the smell of plumeria, ginger, and gardenia? Or, the vivid colors of heliconia, ti plants, and red torch ginger? Yes, we are blessed with a variety of beautiful tropical plants and flowers, but did you know that Hawaii is also home to Sakura? Sakura is a beautiful flowering tree with pink blossoms. You might know it as a cherry blossom tree. It’s the national tree in Japan and somewhat of a national obsession. Perhaps it is because the blossoms symbolize the spring, a time of renewal, and the fleeting nature of life.
Over 40 years ago, Okinawa gifted the Wahiawa community with the gift of these lovely seedlings. The residents of Wahiawa made a community decision to plant the Sakura in their front yards for all to enjoy. Wahiawa’s climate is perfect for this beloved tree, in fact, it is very similar to Japan’s climate. The blooms come early and they don’t last long, but they arrived this year just in time for Valentine’s Day. Their beauty peaks around two weeks, before the blossoms start to fall. So, there is only a short window of time to see the blossoms in full bloom.
If you live on Oahu, head out to Wahiawa and take a drive along California Avenue. You will see beautiful, blooming double pink Sakura. All the way from Okinawa. It really is special and a perfect way to usher in Valentine’s Day.
While you are in Wahiawa, don’t forget to stop by Sunny Side Restaurant for some of their famous chocolate pie. Or, maybe you’ll want to enjoy some warm saimin and a barbecue stick from Shige’s Saimin Restaurant. Their homemade noodles are the best!
Here’s to Cherry Blossoms and a time of renewal! Happy Valentine’s Day, everyone!
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