Uncommon tree blooms in Latvia's Botanical Garden
In the Heart of Latvia: The Styrax Japonicus, or "Snowflake" Tree
The Latvian National Botanical Garden is a haven for rare and beautiful flora, and one of its most captivating attractions is the "snowflake" tree. Known scientifically as Styrax japonicus, this medium-sized deciduous tree is a sight to behold, particularly during the late spring and early summer when it is covered in thousands of small, pure white, bell-shaped flowers.
This tree, located to the right of the entrance to the Tourist Information Centre, is a spectacle in the central part of the garden. Its oval, bright green leaves provide a lush backdrop to the delicate, nodding, white flowers that resemble snowflakes when in full bloom. When the tree is at its peak, it appears as if a tree covered in fine white snowflakes has taken root.
The Styrax japonicus, native to North America and China, is a popular choice for botanical collections due to its unique and visually striking flowering habit. The petals of the snowflake tree are narrow and long, and the leaves are leathery, unusually large, and can be eight to 20 centimetres long. The impressive seeds of the snowflake tree are the size of cherry pits, surrounded by dark blue flesh.
The snowflake tree in the Botanical Garden is currently approximately three metres tall, but it has the potential to reach a height of up to 10 metres. This tree is not only a visual delight but also a decorative addition to the garden, with its leaves adding to the overall beauty of the Botanical Garden.
The Botanical Garden is currently alive with the bloom of various other species. Irises and tree peonies have opened their first flowers, while the rhododendron collection, lilacs, weigelas, spireas, and blood-red horse chestnuts are still in full bloom. The new iris beds are located near the snowflake tree, creating a harmonious blend of colours and fragrances.
In June, the Latvian National Botanical Garden is hosting educational activities to discover the diversity of birch trees, and the summer solstice will be celebrated with a traditional plant market on 21 June. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the garden's diverse collection of flora and to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Botanical Garden.
In Latvian, the snowflake tree is called the snowflake tree, reflecting its iconic status in the garden. For anyone visiting the Latvian National Botanical Garden, a visit to this unique tree is a must. It's a reminder of the beauty and diversity of nature, even in the heart of Latvia.
- Visitors to the Latvian National Botanical Garden can explore various lifestyle sections, including home-and-garden, and enjoy the sight of unique trees such as the media-worthy Styrax japonicus, also known as the 'snowflake' tree.
- The Latvian National Botanical Garden's lsm (Latvian Language: 'snowflake' tree) section isn't just a visual delight but also an educational one, with ongoing activities focusing on diverse flora like birch trees, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the garden's collection.
