Cherry Blossoms Toronto

High Park Cherry Blossoms

Sakura Cherry Blossom Festival Toronto

 

What a perfect evening we had in High Park, Toronto, Ontario for Anu and Tarun’s engagement photos. The cherry blossoms in Toronto were in full bloom and the weather was warm and sunny. I’m embarrassed to admit that this was the first year that I got down to High Park to see the cherry blossoms, even though I was born and raised in the Toronto area and have lived here for most of my life. I had taken my family down to see the trees in bloom the week prior and could not get over how busy the area was with numerous tour groups and site-seers who had come to see them as well. It was packed. I wasn’t sure how I was going to photograph Anu and Tarun with so many people all over the place. Fortunately we met up a week later after the white trees had lost their blooms so the masses of people had subsided. We found some nice quiet spots with trees that still had their beautiful pink blossoms and got some beautiful and romantic shots.

Here is a bit of information about the history of the cherry trees in High Park, Toronto thanks to http://www.sakurainhighpark.com/
“Sakura trees also known as cherry blossom trees are known for their elegance and beauty. Unfortunately they are also known for their short blooming periods.

Approximately one week after the first blossoms appear, ‘kaika’, ‘full bloom’ or ‘mankai’ is achieved.

The first Japanese Somei-Yoshino Cherry Tree was planted here in 1959 and it was present from the citizens of Tokyo. These trees are the earliest to bloom and are much loved for their fluffy pink and white flowers. Another 34 cherry trees were donated to High Park from the Sakura project. Other cherry trees were also donated to other locations around the city, for example Exhibition Place and various universities such as McMaster University, York Uni and the U of T.

Did you know that cherry blossoms and leaves are actually edible? They are used in Japan to bring out flavour in traditional confectioneries and buns. They are also drunk in place of green tea at special events and festivities.

Please note that the leaves do contain coumarin, so, it is not recommended to eat them in large quantities. Coumarin has a pleasant and sweet odor, but has a bitter taste. It can be toxic to the liver and kidneys in very high dosages.”

Here is a link for updates on the status of the cherry blossoms in Toronto:

http://www.sakurainhighpark.com/