Japanese Cherry Trees Bloom for the First Time

First Blossoms Unfold on Japanese Cherry Trees at Val de la Mare

Spring has brought a beautiful new sight to Jersey, as three Japanese cherry trees planted last year have burst into bloom for the very first time.

The trees, located at Val de la Mare reservoir, were gifted to the island by the Embassy of Japan in the UK as part of the nationwide Sakura Project — a cultural initiative marking the friendship between the UK and Japan through the donation of over 7,500 cherry trees across the country.

To celebrate the occasion, local environmental charity Jersey Trees for Life hosted a small ceremony on Friday, attended by 29 people. The event marked the symbolic arrival of spring and the blossoming of international goodwill, as delicate pink petals adorned the young trees for the first time.

A photo shared by the charity shows one of the trees in bloom, with vibrant blossoms standing out against a backdrop of fresh greenery. A white tag bearing the charity’s logo and details of the Sakura Project is fastened to the tree’s slender trunk.

Alex Morel, CEO of Jersey Trees for Life, spoke warmly about the significance of the moment. “It’s easy to see why cherry blossoms are so iconic in Japanese culture,” she said. “In full bloom, they’re truly an unforgettable sight.”

She also extended an open invitation to the public. “We encourage all tree enthusiasts and nature lovers to come and enjoy these beautiful symbols of friendship. We’re incredibly grateful to our Japanese friends for their generosity and look forward to many blossom-filled springs to come.”