Trees are the gift of nature that gives us not only shade but also the reason for our breathing.
If you have ever come to my country Japan, you might have already got a view of different trees, from floral to evergreen types. And I bet that cherry blossom trees are stuck in your mind the most. Right?
Almost everyone appreciates these flowering trees, but the other types of Japanese trees aren’t any less!
Yes, as you may not know much about the other ones, you are only stunned by the few.
So, today I will give you a naturally soothing ride through different species of trees native to Japan.
Let’s start…
20 Most Well-Known Native Trees of Japan That You Should Know About
Since Japan is made up of 6,852 islands, it is home to vast biodiversity. Here you will find a number of unique trees that are praised for their beauty as well as other benefits.
There are around 4,500 species that are native to Japan, among which trees stand out the most. Some of them are widely popular worldwide, such as flowering cherry trees and Japanese maple.
But there are also other types of trees in Japan that can be grown in gardens worldwide.
Now, whether you are interested in growing one in your garden or want to know about them casually, I am presenting some of the most famous trees in Japan.
1. Sakura Or Japanese Cherry Blossom Tree
A flowering tree that can stun people in a second with its captivating beauty is cherry blossoms!
You know what, I can never find an appropriate word that can truly describe its attractiveness.
If you only have seen it in pictures, I suggest you come and view it in real life. Only after then, you are going to know its actual charm.
Cherry blossoms are the most popular Japanese ornamental tree. Also, they are considered to be the national flower of Japan.
But, there is a huge debate on which country is the origin of these trees. One thing is sure they are native to either Japan, Korea, or China.
Personally, I think that Japan has truly given these flowers a meaning to cherish. And we adore them more than any other country.
Anyway, whatever their origin is, we should focus on the tree’s beauty and other factors now.
Cherry blossoms blooming marks the beginning of spring. Since the flowers only stay for a few weeks, they have a meaning of fleeting nature of life.
These blossoms have different colors depending on the varieties. The most common colors are pale pink, bright pink, and white.
In Japan, Yoshino cherry trees are the most renowned variety. These trees have a massive structure that can reach 20 to 40 feet in height and 15 to 30 feet canopy.
During the Nara period (710 to 794), members of the Imperial Palace used to gather under sakura trees to view and admire these pink and white blossoms. And that’s how the tradition of Hanami (cherry blossom viewing festival) originated.
Today, this tradition is celebrated in Japan by family and friends by gathering and enjoying a picnic under cherry blossom trees.
Another custom is “Yozakura,” when paper lanterns are hung on flowering cherry trees, and people enjoy their late-night picnic with the romantic glow of the lanterns.
So, if you decide to grow a cherry blossom tree in your garden or yard, you can also arrange such parties during spring and have some unforgettable moments with your loved ones.
Wait, wait, it’s not the end. There are more benefits to growing them!
Some Cherry blossom petals are edible, and you can use them in tea, pickles, and sweets. They are also used in making fragrances, body mist, and skincare products.
In short, these trees are one of the proud factors of Japan.
Here, I have arranged a box showing different information about one of the varieties of cherry blossom, which is sakura. Have a look.
| Japanese Cherry Blossom Tree |
|---|
| Japanese Name: Sakura |
| Scientific Name: Prunus Serrulata |
| Blooming Time: Late March to mid-April or early May |
| Mature Height: 15 to 25 ft |
| Lifespan: 15 to 30 years |
| Hardiness Zone: 5 to 9 |
2. Japanese Maple Trees
If you are looking for Japanese trees for landscaping, this one can be a great choice. The Japanese name for these trees is Momiji, and there are many varieties available.
The most common species is Acer palmatum. They are viewed as a symbol of peace and serenity. Their bright red foliage has been capturing the eyes and hearts of people for centuries. And I think you aren’t an exception.
Yeah, they are such art of natural beauty!!
During fall, Japanese mountains are decorated with bright red, yellow, or orange colors because of the maple trees. Traditionally, planting these trees is a way of welcoming the autumn season.
Just like the cherry blossom viewing, there is a tradition of visiting mountains in fall to see the beauty of maple trees which is called “Momiki-gari.”
Most Japanese people believe this custom to be a form of communication with nature and spirits living in the trees. These trees also have a great influence on Japanese art and poetry. Well, why not, they serve such a breathtaking charm.
Just imagine an evening you are meeting your love of life under these trees, foliage is dropping, and the wind is blowing. The chill is indescribable, and the scenario will be memorable.
If you visit Japan during the fall season, you will be able to enjoy these trees’ charm in the gardens. They are also found in temples and shrines.
They can grow to a height of 15 to 25 feet and spread around 20 feet at maturity with a round shape.
Interestingly, you can grow them as bonsai, which can be an eye-catching décor for your home. They are also able to adjust to different climates.
Now you may get surprised to know that fried maple leaves are one of the tasty delicacies in Japan, especially in Osaka. For a unique flavor, maple leaves are kept for a year in salt barrels before being coated in tempura batter and deep-fried.
I recommend you try this snack known as “Momiji Tempura.” Who knows, the taste may surprise you and make you keep asking for more!
| Japanese Maple Tree |
|---|
| Japanese Name: Momiji |
| Scientific Name: Acer palmatum |
| Mature Height: 4 to 25 ft |
| Mature Spread: 4 to 25 ft |
| Lifespan: About 100 years |
| Hardiness Zone: 5 to 9 |
3. Japanese Pine Tree
These trees are one of the most dominant native trees in Japan. There are two species of pine that are broadly found in gardens: Japanese red pine and Japanese black pine.
Mature black pine can grow 15 to 50 ft in height and 20 to 35 ft in width. On the other hand, red pine can reach around 100 feet in the wild, but it tends to grow about 30 to 50 ft in landscapes.
You can grow both black and red Japanese pine as bonsai.
Pine trees are known in Japan as “Matsu.” In Japanese, the word Matsu means waiting for God's soul to descend from heaven.
According to ancient Shinto beliefs, gods ascended to heaven on pine trees. Pine branches were used to embellish samurai armor and katana before the Edo period because pine trees were associated with masculinity.
Hence, it’s no wonder that these trees are revered in Japanese culture.
The pine trees symbolize good fortune, steadfastness, and longevity. They are considered one of the Japanese evergreen trees and also part of the new year tradition representing rebirth, renewal, and a hopeful future.
If you’ve ever visited a Shinto shrine in Japan, you have probably already seen these trees as they are often found there. Visitors tie omikuji (or paper fortunes) to these trees’ branches.
Because pine trees are said to ward off bad luck and evil spirits, larger shrines often have them planted around their perimeter.
Except for a single pine tree, a forest of 70,000 pine trees was devastated by the 2011’s Great East Earthquake and Tsunami. And that tree has become a national symbol of determination and resilience.
| Japanese Black Pine |
|---|
| Scientific Name: Pinus thunbergii |
| Mature Height: 15 to 50 ft |
| Mature Spread: 20 to 35 ft |
| Blooming Time: Spring |
| Hardiness Zones: 6 to 8 |
| Lifespan: About 150 years |
| Japanese Red Pine |
|---|
| Scientific Name: Pinus densiflora |
| Mature Height: Around 30 to 50 ft |
| Mature Spread: Around 15 to 25 ft |
| Blooming Time: Spring |
| Hardiness Zones: 4 to 7 |
| Lifespan: 80 years or more |
4. Japanese Oak
Japanese oak, whose botanical name is Quercus acuta, is an evergreen oak tree native to Japan, China, South Korea, and Taiwan.
Their leaves are simple, oblong-ovate to lanceolate, or elliptical in terms of shape. They have glossy green color on the upper surface and yellowish-green color on the underside.
The tree can reach 20 to 30 feet in height, 15 to 20 feet in width, and has an oval to rounded shape with dense, low branching, smooth gray bark.
Japanese Evergreen Oak is perfect for use as a specimen, screen, or small shade tree because of its dense growth and small size. The wood of these trees is used in Japanese martial arts practice weapons.
| Japanese Evergreen Oak |
|---|
| Scientific Name: Quercus acuta |
| Mature Height: 20 to 30 ft |
| Mature Spread: 15 to 20 ft |
| Flower Characteristics: Not showy |
| Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11 |
| Lifespan: Around 2000 years in appropriate condition |
5. Japanese Plum Yew
Japanese plum yew is one of the common types of trees found in Japanese gardens. It’s a slow-growing evergreen shrub well-known for its dark green needles and foliage.
Although these trees are native to Japan, they are also grown in Korea and China for centuries.
One of the advantages of growing these trees is they can thrive in full shade. Whether you plant them under tall trees or on the shady side of a wall, there is no problem at all. But don’t assume that they can’t grow in the full sun cause it’s not true.
If you want to establish a Japanese garden with some deep-green soothing views, this would be a great choice.
By the way, the wild tree can grow large, so I recommend choosing a more compact species like the one named “Duke Gardens.”
| Japanese Plum Yew |
|---|
| Scientific Name: Cephalotaxus harringtonia |
| Mature Height: 5 to 10 ft |
| Mature Spread: 5 to 14 ft |
| Foliage Color: Green |
| Hardiness Zones: 6 to 9 |
| Lifespan: 50 to 150 years |
6. Japanese Larch
Japanese Larch is a naturally grown deciduous conifer in the temperate forests of Japan. They are known as “karamatsu” in Japanese. They are largely found in the mountains of Kanto and Chubu regions in central Honshu.
Their leaves are needle-like, glaucous green color, and are around 2 to 5 cm long. The trees can reach 70 to 80 feet tall and 25 to 40 feet wide.
The crown is conical, dense, and becomes irregular and more open with age. Each winter, Japanese Larch loses its foliage.
It is among one of the earliest trees that come into leaf in spring. The leaves turn bright yellow to orange before falling in the autumn.
Japanese Larch is a fast-growing, hardy tree that makes a beautiful specimen in a vast landscape. It can adapt to wet areas, tolerate clay soils, and is also disease-resistant. They prefer full sun and can easily be grown in deep, well-drained soil.
| Japanese Larch |
|---|
| Scientific Name: Larix kaempferi |
| Mature Height: 70 to 80 ft |
| Mature Spread: 25 to 40 ft |
| Flower Color: Inconspicuous |
| Hardiness Zones: 4 to 7 |
| Lifespan: 70 years or more |
7. Japanese Tree Lilac
Japanese tree lilac is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can reach a height of around 20 to 30 feet with 15 to 20 feet spread.
It is one of the Japanese ornamental trees that provides a stunning panorama. In early summer, they produce huge clusters of beautiful creamy white flowers that are packed with a musky scent.
Their flowers stay attractive for only 1 to 2 weeks. The blossoms provide clusters of tan capsules that last well into the winter months.
They have a Christmas tree shape, wider at the base and narrower at the top, with spreading branches and an oval to the spherical crown. Their bark is smooth with horizontal lenticels, and the dark green leaves remain attractive during summer.
Japanese Tree Lilac is best when grown in cool summer climates, so it’s not recommended to plant south of USDA Zone 7.
They can be planted as specimens, beside the street, on a border, or in small groups.
| Japanese Tree Lilac |
|---|
| Scientific Name: Syringa reticulata |
| Mature Height: 20 to 30 ft |
| Mature Spread: 15 to 20 ft |
| Blooming Time: Early Summer |
| Characteristics: Cut flowers, fragrant, showy |
| Hardiness Zones: 3 to 7 |
| Lifespan: 40 to 50 years |
8. Oyama Magnolia
Do you want a summer-flowering tree to adorn your garden?
Then you may look forward to Oyama Magnolia, a vase-shaped shrub that blooms from late May and stays till July.
Yes, a long six weeks of beautiful flourished flowers will keep your yard decorated and your eyes fascinated!
Their cup-shaped fragrant white flowers (4 inches across) with striking stamens look absolutely admirable. They're followed by 3 in. (7 cm) long spectacular pink oval fruits that split open in the fall to reveal orange to red seeds.
In autumn, their green leaves turn golden yellow before falling.
Native to Japan, Korea, and Southeastern China, Oyama Magnolia is also known as Korean Magnolia. It grows as an undergrowth tree or large shrub in the wild. And it’s a great choice for small gardens as they reach only 15 to 25 feet in height with approx. 15 feet spread.
| Oyama Magnolia |
|---|
| Scientific Name: Magnolia sieboldii |
| Mature Height: 15 to 25 ft |
| Mature Spread: Approximately 15 ft |
| Blooming Time: Late May to July |
| Characteristics: Fragrant, showy |
| Hardiness Zones: 6 to 9 |
| Lifespan: 60 years or more |
9. Japanese Cedar
Japanese cryptomeria (Cryptomeria japonica), broadly known as Japanese Cedar, is another type of tree found in Japanese forests. They are native to both South Japan and China.
These trees can reach 50 to 70 ft tall and 20 to 30 ft wide with a conical to pyramidal shape. And they symbolizes power and longevity.
They are often found in Shinto shrines lining the ways to several important places, such as the grave of Tokugawa Ieyasu in Nikko and the Zuihoden Mausoleum of Date Masamune in Sendai.
The tree's genus name comes from the Greek word krypto, which means to hide, and meris, which means part, referring to the hidden position of the reproductive organs.
Japanese Cedar prefers rich, well-drained, moist, acidic soil but is adjustable to other soil types. They can grow in speckled sunlight, full sun, or partial shade.
Their reddish-brown exfoliating bark looks quite attractive, and that’s why the wood is highly valued for creating many things.
They’re resistant to damage by deer and slightly salt tolerant. Also, these trees don’t require high maintenance. Because of the soft, graceful habit, the Japanese Cedar is an ideal specimen tree for the lawn or naturalized area.
By the way, don’t worry about the size as shorter cultivars are also available.
| Japanese Cedar |
|---|
| Scientific Name: Cryptomeria japonica |
| Japanese Name: Sugi |
| Mature Height: 50 to 70 ft |
| Mature Spread: 20 to 30 ft |
| Foliage Color: Green (even with exposure to cold or wind) |
| Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8 |
| Lifespan: Over 300 years |
10. Japanese Zelkova
The Japanese Zelkova is a tough urban tree for street plantings and residential shade. It has a vase-shaped spreading habit with upright branching.
When young, their bark is smooth and reddish-brown, with prominent cherry-like lenticels. With age, the tree's outer bark becomes gray-brown and frequently exfoliates, revealing an orangish inner bark.
In the fall, the medium green leaves develop hues of yellow, orange, brown, and deep red to reddish-purple, putting on a showy display.
They can grow 50 to 80 feet in height and 50 to 75 feet in width at maturity. But, you can opt for a bonsai since they are vastly popular as a bonsai tree.
Japanese Zelkova is native to Korea, Taiwan, Manchuria, and of course, Japan. It was introduced in America in 1862. This tree has another common name which is “Keaki.”
Earlier, I mentioned that these are urban trees; hence you can assume that they can endure wind, drought, and air pollution.
So, if you live in a city and are looking for a pollution-resistant Japanese tree, it can be a great choice. But make sure to plant them with enough space around.
| Japanese Zelkova |
|---|
| Scientific Name: Zelkova serrata |
| Mature Height: 50 to 80 feet |
| Mature Spread: 50 to 75 feet |
| Characteristics: Showy during the fall season |
| Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8 |
| Lifespan: Over 70 years |
11. Japanese Chestnut
Japanese chestnuts have grown wild since ancient times and are native to Japan and the Korean peninsula. Chestnuts were first commercially farmed in Japan in the 11th century and are now largely grown in the prefectures of Ehime, Ibaraki, and Kumamoto.
They are small deciduous trees that grow 30 to 50 feet tall. The leaves are almost similar to the sweet chestnut but usually a little smaller, 8 to 19 cm long and 3 to 5 cm broad.
The flowers of both genders are borne 7 to 12 cm long. In upright catkins, male flowers are found in the upper part and female flowers are in the lower part. Both of them appear in the summer, and by autumn, female flowers develop into spiny cupules bearing 3–7 brownish nuts, which are shed in October.
It’s a very important tree in Japan because of the heavy production of sweet, edible nuts.
So, having a chestnut tree in the yard means you are gonna be treated with delicious nuts from the fall to winter season.
| Japanese Chestnut |
|---|
| Scientific Name: Castanea crenata |
| Mature Height: 30 to 50 ft |
| Characteristics: Produce edible nuts |
| Fruiting Season: Fall through winter |
| Hardiness Zones: 4 to 8 |
| Lifespan: More than 100 years |
12. Japanese Spruce
Japanese Spruce (Picea jezoensis) is a large evergreen tree that grows in Japan’s central mountains, north to eastern Siberia, containing the Sikhote-Alin, Kuril Islands, Sakhalin, and Kamchatka, the Changbai Mountains on the China-North Korea border.
It is found in chilly but humid temperate rainforests.
The specific epithet jezoensis comes from Ezo, an old name for Hokkaido and other Japanese islands north of Honshu, where the species is found.
They can reach 100 to 160 feet tall with a trunk diameter of around 2 m. Their bark is grayish-brown and deeply fissured, which peels off in irregular scales.
Twigs are pale yellowish-brown in color and deeply grooved with a smooth texture.
Their needle-like leaves can be 15 to 20 mm long and 2 mm broad.
These trees produce flowers from May to June, and the cones ripen in September. It’s also occasionally planted as an ornamental tree in extensive gardens.
| Japanese Spruce |
|---|
| Scientific Name: Picea jezoensis |
| Mature Height: 100 to 160 ft |
| Foliage Color: Glossy dark green with a silver underside |
| Characteristics: Ornamental |
| Color of Flowers: Reddish brown |
| Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9 |
| Lifespan: Around 300 years |
13. Japanese Beech
Japanese Beech is a deciduous tree endemic to the boreal forests of Japan. They are found from Hokkaido's Oshima Peninsula to Kyushu's Osumi Peninsula.
In north-east Honshu, they grow in large stands from sea level up to 1,400 meters. However, its growing range is restricted to mountainous regions and appears in small numbers in the southwest area.
The trees can thrive in well-drained, loamy, or sandy soils. At maturity, they reach 115 feet in height.
The leaves are alternating and straightforward, with the upper side being green and the underside being glabrous. They are widest towards the base and have seven to eleven pairs of veins.
Their crown is rounded, and the bark is gray and smooth. The flowers of the tree are pollinated by wind, and you can eat their young leaves and seeds.
I want to clarify that this Japanese Beech is Fagus crenata, not Fagus japonica. So, don’t mix them up.
| Japanese Beech |
|---|
| Scientific Name: Fagus crenata |
| Mature Height: Around 115 feet |
| Flowers Type: Small and inconspicuous |
| Fruit: 3-angled nut inside of a weakly spiny husk |
| Hardiness Zones: 4 to 8 |
| Lifespan: Nearly 400 years |
14. Nikko Japanese Fir
Abies homolepis, recognized as Nikko Fir, is a fir that grows naturally in the mountains of central and southern Honshu and Shikoku in Japan.
It grows in temperate rain forests with high rainfall, cool, humid summers, and heavy winter snowfall at altitudes of 700–2,200 m.
Being a medium-sized to large evergreen coniferous tree, it can reach 100 to 120 feet high with a trunk of up to 5 feet in diameter.
The leaves are needle-like, flattened, 1.5–3.5 cm long, 2–3 mm broad by 0.5 mm thick, glossy green above and two white stomatal bands below, and rounded or slightly notched at the tip.
The leaf pattern is spiral on the stem, but each leaf is variably twisted at the base, causing them to lie somewhat flattened to either side of and above the shoot, with a few below.
Shoots are yellow-buff in color, with a glabrous texture and prominent grooves.
| Nikko Japanese Fir |
|---|
| Scientific Name: Abies homolepis |
| Japanese Name: Urajiro-momi |
| Mature Height: 100 to 120 ft |
| Trunk Diameter: 5 ft |
| Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8 |
| Lifespan: 60 years or more |
15. Maximowicz Birch
Maximowicz Birch, whose scientific name is Betula maximowicziana, is a deciduous tree that grows naturally in the temperate forest of Japan.
They have fast-growing nature to around 45 ft under cultivation and 100 ft in their native habitat. Their leaves are alternating, simple, heart-shaped, and about 8 to 14 cm long.
It’s a valuable timber tree in Japan but also grown as an ornamental for its bark in Europe, Japan, and a few places in North America.
The yellowish catkins that appear before the leaf shoots are the blooms. Male catkins are about 11 cm long, and female catkins are cylindrical, 6cm long. And the fruits are like small, winged nutlets.
| Maximowicz Birch |
|---|
| Scientific Name: Betula maximowicziana |
| Mature Height: Around 100 ft |
| Mature Spread: Around 50 ft |
| Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8 |
| Lifespan: Above 40 years |
16. The Kobushi Magnolia Tree (Magnolia Kobus)
The stunning Kobushi Magnolia tree is native to Japan, and a sight to behold during bloom season. These trees are known for their beautiful and fragrant large white flowers that adorn their branches.
The Kobushi Magnolia tree is a popular garden tree, as it’s easy to maintain and can grow up to 20 metres in height - with a trunk diameter of around 1 metre. It is also exceptionally long-living, with individuals known to live up to one hundred years in the wild.
In Japan, Kobushi Magnolia trees are widely celebrated. During Yuki matsuri, the traditional Japanese Snow Festival, these trees are often decorated with snow, paper lanterns and other decorations.
Kobushi trees have also featured prominently in Japanese artwork and literature, including the highly praised Ukiyo-e woodblock prints of Edo period Japan.
These trees are much-loved for their hardiness and versatility, and require only minimal pruning. They are fast-growing, requiring little fertiliser or other inputs to maintain healthy growth.
Kobushi Magnolias make for a stunning addition to any garden or park, and are a perfect choice for any landscape setting. Despite their beauty, these trees are surprisingly drought averse and will do well even in arid environments.
In Japan, the Kobushi Magnolia is just as beloved for the nuts its produces as the flowers that adorn it.
The nuts are somewhat larger than average chestnuts, with a sweet, nutty flavor. They can be eaten as is, boiled, or added to desserts and savory foods. The flowers and leaves can also be eaten as part of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
The Kobushi Magnolia tree is a great choice for gardening enthusiasts looking for a beautiful and hardy tree to add to their garden.
It is well-loved in Japan for its beautiful white flowers and its hardy nature, and can be a lovely addition to any garden. With minimal care and maintenance, the Kobushi Magnolia can live for one hundred years or more, providing lasting beauty and pleasure that is truly unique.
17. Japan’s Giant Bamboo (Phyllostachys Edulis)
The majestic bamboo of Japan offers a sight to behold: with its bright green stalks rustling in the wind, it’s both impressive and inviting. Japan’s giant bamboo,
Phyllostachys edulis, offers one of the largest varieties of bamboo in the world. This type of bamboo often grows over 100 feet tall, making it a formidable presence in many of the country’s gardens, parks and yards.
Not only is this type of bamboo aesthetically pleasing, it also provides a healthy, tasty treat.
The versatility of Japanese Giant Bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) is one of its most prized features.
Often used for decorative purposes, its bright green stalks can be seen lined along pathways and commonly preserved in a standing desk or Bonsai style pot.
While it may take on a more ornamental approach, many appreciate this species’ strength and ability to grow in nearly any type of soil, making it the perfect addition both indoors and out.
But the sights and structure of this bamboo are not the only things to appreciate. The shoots of this type of bamboo also make a very tasty treat.
A popular snack in Japan, these shoots are boiled and peeled, then cooked with a variety of sauce, herbs, and seasonings.
This popular culinary delight is both savory and nutritious and can be paired with a variety of dishes or enjoyed on its own.
No matter where in the world one might find Phyllostachys edulis, the bamboo’s grand size, beauty, and flavorful treat make it a true marvel.
Those lucky enough to wander and explore Japan’s steps and alleys have the special honor of seeing this species of bamboo up close and personal.
It's no wonder why Japan’s Giant Bamboo is internationally celebrated and appreciated. It is a memorable sight with so much more to offer!
18. Tsubaki (Camellia Japonica)
Tsubaki, or Camellia Japonica, is the floral symbol of Japan. This flower has a long history and is adored by many. From tree to bonsai, it is a popular garden species. The Tsubaki tree has many varieties and colors.
From a deep red to lovely pinks and even whites, Tsubaki has a unique beauty that stands out from the rest.
The Tsubaki's most popular and beloved variety is the deep red Tsubaki. Most people know it for its bright and vibrant deep red petals that are commonly used for decorations during late fall and winter time.
It's there to represent the cheer of the celebrations, but it also serves as a reminder of the tranquil atmosphere of the winter months. It's the best way to show that even in the midst of colder climates, one can still find beauty in the world.
Moreover, Tsubaki trees can be found at many Shinto shrines in Japan as a sign of both respect and peace. It is believed that the Tsubaki symbolizes purification and ward off evil spirits.
Japan is well known for its strong ties to its spiritual culture, and the Tsubaki plays an important part.
Aside from being an impressive ornamental and spiritual specimen, Tsubaki has its own economic value, as the leaves are used to make tea.
The Tsubaki tea, known as Tsubakicha, is a traditional tea that is made out of the leaves of the Tsubaki tree. It has a unique, earthy flavor and is believed to have medicinal effects. It is also used to aid digestion and soothe muscle pain.
In conclusion, Tsubaki is one of the symbols of Japan, it stands for beauty, peace, purity, and well-being.
From its cultural and spiritual symbolism to its economic value and use for decorative purposes, Tsubaki is definitely a beloved tree in all aspects.
It has an array of colors, from dark red to pink to white, that make it stand out from the crowd and, when combined with the winter season, give a festive atmosphere. Whether you admire its beauty or just appreciate its spiritual values, the Tsubaki is truly a beautiful part of Japan's rich culture.
19. Maidenhair Tree (Ginkgo Biloba)
The Maidenhair Tree, or Ginkgo Biloba, is a species of tree native to Japan and some other parts of the world.
Its leaves are quite unique, fan-shaped and quite prominent in their jade green hue. Each fall, this beautiful tree sheds its leaves, turning a bright yellow that is sure to make any passerby stop in awe of its beauty.
Unfortunately, its fruit may not be edible, with a consistency similar to that of pinecones, but this tree has a bit of a twinkle in its eye; it's been a part of traditional medicine for thousands of years.
Ginkgo Biloba has been found in many places, from the hustling cities to sleepy villages. When you think of a tree with a long history of being appreciated and used for centuries, the ginkgo tree likely comes to mind.
The temples of Japan, standing strong for generations, often have had this beautiful tree as a centerpiece for many years. This tree has also been common in graveyards, a time-honored tradition of using the protection of the branches to honor the deceased.
This tree is also regarded for its advantageous health benefits. Having been utilized in ayurvedic medicine, Chinese medicine and more, the ginkgo can slow down the aging process, improve circulation, boost any type of cognitive function and protect the lymphatic system.
It has also been known to help anyone struggling with depression, ADHD and stress. All of these benefits come from the leaves, extract, or seeds being absorbed into the body, with most individuals noticing the effects within a few weeks.
The ginkgo biloba tree is a species with a rich history and one that has been appreciated by many cultures for centuries.
It is a sight to behold as its leaves begin to turn a stunning yellow hue each fall, but it is also one that holds an important role in traditional medicine, with its extract and leaves being used for their health and healing benefits.
Whether it's a temple, a graveyard, a city, or a village, the mighty ginkgo biloba can be found in many places, adding a touch of natural beauty to the atmosphere.
20. Japanese Pagoda Tree (Styphnolobium Japonicum)
The Japanese Pagoda Tree, otherwise known as the Styphnolobium Japonicum, is a flowering plant native to Japan. This tree comes in both small and large varieties, and is prized for its striking display of beauty in the fall.
When autumn comes to the Land of the Rising Sun, the Styphnolobium Japonicum delights observers with its show of bright oranges and yellows, like the color of a flowing river of gold.
The history of this unique and beautiful tree dates back hundreds of years, to the days of the Heian Period.
It was during this time that the Japanese Pagoda Tree was thought to represent enlightenment, strength, fortune and longevity — values that are still admired in Japan today.
The tree has been featured in Japanese artwork and poetry ever since, becoming an iconic symbol of Japanese culture.
Throughout the country, the Japanese Pagoda Tree can be found in most cities, parks and gardens. One of the most famous examples of this tree is the Tōdai-ji temple in Nara, which was built in the 8th century.
Here, a large number of Japanese Pagoda Trees give the temple its characteristic aesthetic. Many of these trees have been around since the time of the temple’s founding, over 1200 years ago.
The Japanese Pagoda Tree can also be found in the grounds of shrines, temples, and other sacred sites. The trees are seen to both enhance the spiritual atmosphere of these locations, as well as provide spiritual protection for the buildings.
It is believed that the tree’s powerful spiritual energy can make temples and shrines sacred spaces, and keep them safe from negative forces.
Whether it’s the vibrant oranges and yellows in fall or the spiritual protection it brings to sacred sites, the Japanese Pagoda Tree is a cherished part of Japan’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
This unique tree both captivates visitors with its beauty, as well as pays homage to a long and important history. It’s no wonder this tree has remained a beloved symbol of the Land of the Rising Sun.
Alright, we are finally at the edge of our writing. So, let’s conclude it here.
Conclusion
There are a number of trees native to Japan, and today I introduced you to some of them.
Hopefully, you had a great time exploring them individually. If you are planning to grow any of them, don’t forget to check whether their hardiness zone matches your region.
Thus, you will be able to know which one will be the most suited for your area.
Lastly, take care.
