Nature New cherry tree species found at Kumamoto Castle

A cherry tree believed to represent a new cultivated variety has been identified on the grounds of Kumamoto Castle, with city officials announcing that it will be named "Yasohime" (八十姫) following a public vote. The tree stands near the southwestern edge of Ninomaru Square in Chūō Ward, Kumamoto City. It is about 6 metres tall and has a trunk circumference of about 90 centimetres.


One unusual feature is the changing colour of its blossoms. As the flowering season progresses, the petals gradually shift from white to pink, giving the impression that the tree is blooming in two colours at once. The cherry tree was first identified during a 2022 survey. After an on-site inspection, experts concluded that it could potentially be recognised as a new cultivated species.

Voting for the name was held online and elsewhere from March 16 to April 19, allowing voters to choose from five proposals. Of the total of 5,797 votes, Yasohime garnered 3,212 ballots, well over the 797 votes for the runner-up "Niyo." Yasohime was the name of the daughter of Kato Kiyomasa, a famed local feudal lord known for building Kumamoto Castle. Moving forward, the city aims to publish the findings in an academic journal in conjunction with relevant organisations.

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Had a nice cherry tree on my front lawn for over 40 years. It has the white blossoms. Last year it appeared dead with little to no blossoms. I hired a tree guy to cut off all the dead limbs and this year it's back really nice. It's a nice reminder of my time im Japan.