Our city is in bloom.
Yes, but: The pink blossoms you’re seeing aren’t necessarily what you think.
They’re more likely flowering plum trees.
Or maybe the Okame. Which, yes, technically is a cherry tree species, but not the kind we most associate with peak bloom in D.C.
Be smart: You can tell the difference between plum and cherry trees by checking their trunks or petals.
Cherry trees have rings of horizontal pockmarks, like raised scars, around their trunks. Plum trees do not.
A cherry blossom’s petals are slightly serrated. Plum petals are smooth all around.
Check the blossoms: According to National Park Service arborist Matthew Morrison, plum and okame trees do have a tendency to bloom a little earlier than the Yoshinos surrounding the Tidal Basin.
Nevertheless, according to A.J. Orlikoff, director of public engagement at the Congressional Cemetery, which has a beautiful collection, they don’t typically blossom this early.
The Yoshino flowers won’t appear for a few more weeks, despite what your allergies may claim.
