WASHINGTON DC, United States — Cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin enter their post-peak phase, with petals beginning to fall and new leaves emerging. This transitional period marks the end of the iconic bloom, showcasing the ephemeral beauty of spring in the nation's capital.
Photograph by David Coleman. This image captures a poignant moment in the annual cycle of Washington DC's famous cherry blossoms. In the days following peak bloom, the trees enter a transitional phase that is both beautiful and bittersweet. The Yoshino cherry trees, gifted by Japan in 1912, typically reach peak bloom in late March to early April. As the blooming period ends, petals begin to fall, creating a natural confetti effect around the Tidal Basin and nearby areas. This "cherry blossom snow" is a cherished sight in its own right, with fallen petals carpeting the ground and floating on the water's surface. Simultaneously, fresh green leaves start to emerge from the branches, signaling the trees' shift from flowering to photosynthesis. This leaf-out process gradually transforms the landscape from a soft pink canopy to a vibrant green one. The interplay of falling petals and emerging leaves symbolizes the transient nature of beauty and the continuous cycle of renewal in nature. This phase is significant in the cherry blossom viewing tradition, or hanami, reminding observers of the impermanence of life – a concept deeply rooted in Japanese culture and philosophy. For visitors and locals alike, this post-peak period offers a different but equally captivating experience of the cherry blossoms, emphasizing the ever-changing beauty of the natural world in the heart of the nation's capital.
Size: 6157px × 4109px
Location: FDR Memorial, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
Photo credit: © David Coleman | CherryBlossomWatch / Alamy / Afripics
License: Royalty Free
Model Released: No
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