Name: Cherry Blossom, also known as ‘Sakura’ in Japan
Latin name: Prunus serrulata
Season: Spring
Meaning: In Japan it often represents the ephemera of life and mortality
Origins: Possibly originating in the Himalayas, the cherry blossom in the temperate parts of the northern hemisphere in Europe, West Siberia, China, the Korean Peninsula, Japan, Canada, and the United States.
The cherry blossom is possibly globally famous because of its importance in Japanese culture which has been exported abroad. From cherry blossom festivals happening when the trees bloom in the Spring, to poems, songs, and references in anime, the cherry blossom has captivated the Japanese for ages.
The cloud-like nature of the flowers and the way they cluster in thick, fluffy-looking bunches, brought to mind clouds to the first poets in Japan. The blossoms were then taken to denote clouds and further the impermanence of nature. Building on this and with the addition of war poetry during World War II, the flower came to mean mortality and the transience of life.
These meanings may be considered bleak or, arguably, the cherry blossom represents a floral ‘YOLO,’ carpe diem. Including them in your wedding arrangement will no doubt add a softness and airiness to your decor with the added bonus of screaming ‘Seize the Day!’ in the language of flowers.
Cherry blossoms, as their name suggests, come in a pretty, ballerina pink so match it to a pink or magenta color palette. Or, if you’re feeling daring, tuck it between purple or red flowers for a subtle ombre effect.
Be sure to check out the rest of our Flower Glossary for all your wedding flower needs.