A cherry tree is a traditional symbol of spring in Japan and nowadays pretty much worldwide. We love to observe its delicate and exuberant blossoms. Yet, these trees are not hardy enough to thrive in all climates.
Can cherry blossom trees grow in Minnesota
Most cherry trees cannot survive the harsh winters of Minnesota, as they can't stand severe freezing temperatures and need full sun for at least 6–8 hours per day. Nevertheless, the Twin Cities offer one place where sakura lovers can indulge in cherry blossoms—Como Regional Park. In 2012, Japan gifted St. Paul about 20 particular cherry trees capable of withstanding the local cold. The city planted the trees at the Mannheimer Memorial near the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory's Butterfly Parking Lot. Cherry blossoms may appear in late April, early May, or even later, so be sure to check the latest forecasts. Anyways, the best time to capture the bloom falls between early May and early June.
Cherry Blossom Festival in Minnesota
Ever since St. Paul received the cherry trees, the city has been hosting an annual Cherry Blossom Festival in Como Park to acknowledge their relationship with Japan. Taiko Celebration of cherry blossoms and Japanese culture runs on the first weekend of June. The festival is sponsored by St. Paul's sister-city Nagasaki. For any additional information, we suggest consulting the official websites listed in the External Resources below.
Practical info
When will cherry blossoms peak in St. Paul, MN?
Early May to early June is the peak time to see cherry blossoms in St. Paul, Minnesota. It is best to check the latest forecasts as they might appear in late April, early May, or later. Show more
Can cherry trees survive in Minnesota's climate?
Most cherry trees cannot tolerate the harsh winters of Minnesota that involve severe freezing temperatures and need at least 6–8 hours of full sun per day. However, St. Paul has 20 cherry trees gifted by Japan, situated at Mannheimer Memorial near the Butterfly Parking Lot of Como Zoo and Conservatory, that can endure the local cold. Show more
What is the location of the best place to admire cherry blossoms in St. Paul?
Como Regional Park is the ideal place to view cherry blossoms in St. Paul. The park has twenty cherry trees gifted by Japan that are capable of surviving local cold temperatures. The trees have been planted near Mannheimer Memorial, which resides adjacent to the Butterfly Parking Lot of Como Zoo and Conservatory. Show more
Does St. Paul have an annual festival dedicated to cherry blossoms?
Yes, St. Paul annually conducts a Cherry Blossom Festival at Como Park in recognition of their ties with Japan. In Minnesota, the city planted 20 cherry trees gifted by Japan near the Mannheimer Memorial. The festival is supported by Nagasaki, St. Paul's sister city. Show more
What is the Taiko Celebration event in St. Paul all about?
Taiko Celebration is a part of St. Paul's annual Cherry Blossom Festival, which occurs in Como Park on the first weekend of June. It is a celebration of cherry blossoms and Japanese culture that features various cultural and art performances, Japanese food, and family-friendly activities, and is supported by Nagasaki, St. Paul's sister city. Show more
