Species information
Scientific name: Prunus campanulata
Japanese name: カンヒザクラ、ヒガンザクラ
Chinese name: 山櫻花、寒緋櫻
English name: Taiwan cherry
Origin: Southern China, Taiwan, Ishigaki
Ecology and description
Taiwan cherry, also known Kanhizakura in Japan, has small populations on Ishigaki where it is designated as a national natural monument. On Okinawajima, Taiwan cherry is cultivated and planted in various locations.
Popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Okinawa include Mount Yaedake, Nago Castle Park, Nakijin Castle, and Yogi Park near Naha. Cherry blossom festivals are held from the end of January to early February.
Field photographs taken during our tours, with observation dates
During the daytime in Yambaru, we can observe the Japanese white-eye gathering on Taiwan cherry trees to feed on nectar. At night, fruit bats may also come to lick nectar. By the end of March, Taiwan cherry bears fruit, and Ryukyu flying foxes frequently gather to feed.
