WASHINGTON DC, United States — A blanket of fallen pink cherry blossom petals covers the ground near the Tidal Basin in Washington DC, signaling the end of the peak bloom period. This natural phenomenon, often referred to as "cherry blossom snow," marks the transition from spring's iconic blooms to the arrival of green leaves on the trees.


Photograph by David Coleman. As Washington DC's celebrated cherry blossom season comes to an end, a captivating scene unfolds along the Tidal Basin and surrounding areas. The ground becomes carpeted with a layer of delicate pink petals, creating what locals often call "cherry blossom snow" or "pink snow." This natural spectacle typically occurs in mid to late April, about a week or two after peak bloom. The fallen petals from over 3,000 cherry trees, mostly Yoshino cherries, create a stunning pink blanket that contrasts with the emerging green leaves. This ephemeral display symbolizes the transient nature of beauty in Japanese culture, a concept known as "mono no aware." The cherry trees, a gift from Japan in 1912, continue to serve as a symbol of friendship between the United States and Japan. While the falling petals signal the end of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, they offer visitors and photographers a final, unique opportunity to experience and capture the beauty of Washington DC's most famous spring attraction. The petal-covered grounds around the Tidal Basin, Jefferson Memorial, and other landmarks in the area create a dreamlike atmosphere, drawing visitors to reflect on the cycle of seasons and the fleeting nature of spring's beauty.


Size: 4782px × 3188px
Location: Tidal Basin, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
Photo credit: © David Coleman | CherryBlossomWatch / Alamy / Afripics
License: Royalty Free
Model Released: No

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