Thunberg spiraea

　The white flowers of the Thunberg spiraea are in full bloom, coinciding with the cherry blossom season. As this plant is found only in Japan and eastern China, visitors from abroad often ask me its name. Plants native to Asia often do not grow wild in Europe, and whilst they may have English or French names, these are rarely understood, which can be rather troublesome.

　That said, snow willow is popular as a garden plant, and varieties such as ‘Fujino Pink’, ‘Ogon’ and ‘Mt. Fuji’ are well known.

　Possessing a resilience that allows it to withstand flooding, it grows wild mainly on rocky slopes in valleys; however, in Kyoto, the wild population has declined due to river development. Plants cultivated in gardens and parks can be seen throughout the city. Furthermore, naturalised specimens grow wild along the Kamo River, and they can also be enjoyed at famous cherry blossom viewing spots such as Gion Shirakawa and the Philosopher’s Path, coinciding with the cherry blossom season.