A Blooming Spectacle: Natures way of saying “Let’s Celebrate“
Spring has officially clocked in for duty in the Pacific Northwest, and it’s not shy about showing off. Our streets and yards are about to turn into a living art gallery, bursting with color and fragrance. Over the next few weeks, prepare for one of nature’s most dazzling displays—because the trees are ready to party.
The Prunus Posse: First on the guest list is the prunus family: plums and cherries. These ornamental beauties are all about style, not substance. They will shower you with pink and white blossoms like confetti at a parade. Fun fact: Cherry blossoms are so adored in Japan that they have entire festivals for them. Here in Beaverton, we just call it “spring.”
Pear-fect Blooms and Apple Charm: Next up, ornamental pears and apple trees (malus). These trees bring a snowstorm of white flowers, while crabapple trees like to spice things up with shades ranging from pure white to bold pink. If you spot one, give it a nod—it’s the rebel of the orchard.
Magnificent Magnolias: Magnolias are the divas of spring. With about 80 varieties (eight native to North America), they flaunt large, elegant flowers that bloom around April. The star magnolia even has petals shaped like little stars—because why settle for ordinary when you can sparkle?
Other Floral Celebrities
- Dogwoods: White to greenish-white or yellow flowers—simple, classy, timeless.
- Eastern Redbuds: Purple to pink blossoms that look like nature spilled a box of crayons.
- Hawthorn: Tiny five-petaled flowers, usually white, sometimes pink. Bonus: They’re tough as nails.
- Norway Maples: Greenish-yellow flowers—because someone must keep things mellow.
So, as you stroll through Beaverton or glance out your car window, take a moment to appreciate these blooming beauties. They’re not just trees—they’re nature’s way of saying, “Winter’s over. Let’s celebrate!”
This native plant has been brought to you by the City of Beaverton’s Landscape & Urban Forestry Dept.
