European alder - Spring blossom series

The European alder (also called Black alder, Common alder) has separate male and female inflorescence that bloom at the same time.  The long catkin type male inflorescence can be seen in the image above while the small red female inflorescence can be seen in more detail in the image below.

The female inflorescence goes on to develop into the small "cone" like seed pods that are characteristic of this tree species.

Silver wattle: Spring Blossom Series

Today´s tree for the Spring blossom series is the Silver wattle (Acacia dealbata) which has one brightest yellow colored flowers that you will find.  I took these pictures this morning while walking in a local park here in Madrid.  Only a few other trees are in bloom so for which makes this bright bloomer stand out all the more.  Enjoy the pics!

Cherry plum - Spring blossom series

 The third installment of the spring blossom series is of the Cherry plum (Prunus cerasifera).   In a previous post on this tree species I confused this tree species with the Malus x purpurea in one of the images.  Hopefully I´ve got it right this time.  This tree is a favorite as an ornamental tree both for its colorful flowers and for its purple leaves.

Almond - Spring Blossoms series

 One of the first trees to blossom in the spring is the Almond tree, Prunus dulcis (Northern Hemisphere). The trees in full bloom often stand out backdrop of trees in their winter dormant stage with no color but the dull brown of their trunks and branches.  The brilliant white to pink flowers are often the first hint that Spring is about to begin.

Hanami - Cherry Blossom Viewing

Prunus serrulata - Japanese cherry blossom

"Hanami" is a Japanese word that means "Cherry blossom viewing" and refers to an important annual event that occurs every spring in Japan.

"Many Japanese believe that the blooming of the trees symbolizes the transience of life and is an annual reminder that time is precious. The cherry blossom cycle is seen as a metaphor for life itself – a time to reflect on your achievements and think ahead to your future."  BBC article