25-03-2025
It's cherry blossom season. Where to see the pink flowers in Arizona
As cherry blossom season begins, it's the perfect time to admire the delicate pink and white blooms at select locations across the U.S.
Cherry blossoms, or sakura, are iconic spring flowers known for their delicate pink-to-white petals. They typically bloom in early spring, usually lasting just a few weeks. The cherry blossom bloom is just getting underway now in Washington, D.C.
In Arizona, cherry blossoms are a rare sight due to the state's dry desert climate. But it is possible to see cherry blossoms in Arizona. You just have to know where and when to look.
Here's what to know about cherry blossoms in Arizona.
Both types of trees typically produce fruits and flowers. The cherry blossom tree is cultivated more for its extravagant blooms while cherry trees are cultivated for their fruit, according to Chukar Cherries, a grower in Prosser, Washington.
Cherry blossom trees can grow in certain parts of Arizona, but their success depends on the specific variety and location. They don't typically do well in the heat of the Phoenix area.
In cooler areas like Flagstaff and the higher elevations of Arizona, some cold-hardy varieties, such as the Yoshino cherry or Kwanzan cherry, may thrive.
In the low desert regions, including Phoenix and Tucson, the intense heat and lack of winter chill make it difficult for most cherry blossom trees to flourish.
Seeing cherry blossoms in Arizona is tricky because of the state's warm climate.
The Japanese Friendship Garden in Phoenix might sound like a place to see cherry blossoms, but it's not. Japanese garden design emphasizes harmony with the natural landscape, so the Japanese Friendship Garden features climate-adapted plants like ornamental pear, flowering almond, peach trees and purple leaf plum.
But you can find some cherry blossom trees in higher elevations where temperatures are cooler.
Cherry blossom trees are planted along some streets in Flagstaff.
'The cherry blossoms bloom in late spring and are found in various locations around town,' said Sabrina Beard, marketing specialist for Discover Flagstaff. "On Humphreys Street and at the crossroads of Milton Road and Butler Avenue by (Northern Arizona University), those are some good spots."
Aside from those specimens, there's not a critical mass of cherry trees in Arizona.
'I don't believe we have any cherry trees on any of our state park properties,' said Michelle Thompson, deputy assistant director for Arizona State Parks and Trails.
Cherry blossoms are at their peak in March and April in most places. However, the exact timing depends on the climate and variety of the tree.
In warmer regions, such as the southern U.S., early bloomers typically flower between late February and March. In mild to temperate climates, including Washington, D.C., and Japan reach full bloom from March to mid-April.
In colder climates, such as the northern U.S., Canada and high-elevation areas like Flagstaff, cherry blossoms appear later, usually between late April and early May.
A full bloom cherry blossom typically lasts about one to two weeks, depending on the weather conditions. Since Arizona has a drier climate, cherry blossoms in higher elevations like Flagstaff may last a bit longer if conditions are stable.
The difference between first bloom and full bloom in cherry blossoms is based on how many flowers have opened. The first bloom is when the first few blossoms begin to open on the tree. It marks the start of the blooming season.
The full bloom, also known as the peak bloom, happens when 70% or more of the blossoms on the tree are open, creating that iconic fluffy pink or white canopy.
Full bloom typically occurs four to 10 days after the first bloom, depending on the weather. Cooler temperatures can slow the process, extending the bloom period, while warm or windy weather can shorten it.
It depends on the variety of the cherry blossom tree, but most start as pink buds and gradually turn white or lighter pink as they bloom.
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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Cherry blossom season 2025: Where to see flowers in AZ
