Definition

Noun: 1. A type of ornamental tree: A flowering cherry is any of several shrubs or trees belonging to the genus Prunus that are primarily cultivated for their decorative and abundant blossoms, rather than for fruit production. These blossoms are typically white or pink and can be single or double-petaled.

Usage Notes

The term "flowering cherry" specifically refers to the ornamental varieties. It is used as a countable noun. When discussing these trees in a botanical or gardening context, the focus is on their aesthetic value during the spring blooming season.

Examples

• The park is famous for its avenue of flowering cherries.
• In early spring, the flowering cherry in our garden is covered in pale pink blossoms.
• Many flowering cherry trees, such as the Yoshino cherry, have a very short but spectacular bloom period.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used attributively (like an adjective) to describe other nouns related to these trees.
  • Example: The flowering cherry season attracts many tourists to the region.

Variants and Related Words

• Ornamental cherry: A direct synonym for flowering cherry.
• Cherry blossom: This term refers specifically to the flower of a flowering cherry tree, not the tree itself. It is often used in cultural contexts, especially regarding Japanese .
• Prunus: The botanical genus name that includes flowering cherries, as well as fruit-bearing cherry, plum, peach, and almond trees.

Synonyms

• Ornamental cherry
• Cherry blossom tree (common, though slightly less precise)

Different Meanings

• Cherry (noun): This word alone typically refers to the small, round red or black fruit, or the tree that produces this fruit. A "cherry tree" is usually assumed to be fruit-bearing unless specified as "flowering cherry" or "ornamental cherry."
• Cherry blossom (noun): Specifically the flower itself, not the entire tree.

Noun

1. any of several shrubs or trees of the genus Prunus cultivated for their showy white or pink single or double blossoms