Top 20 Most Common Plants in Japan

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Top 20 Most Common Plants in Japan

In Japan, you can find Bigleaf hydrangea, Chameleon plant, Soybean, Japanese maple, White clover, and more! There are 20 types of plants in total. Be sure to look out for these common plants when you’re walking on the streets, in parks, or public gardens.

Most Common Plants

Bigleaf hydrangea

1. Bigleaf hydrangea

The bigleaf hydrangea is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, and is known for its lush, oval, colorful inflorescence. The two types of Hydrangea macrophylla are mopheads - with large, ball-shaped, sterile flower clusters, and lace capes - with small round fertile flowers in the center, and sterile flowers on the outer side of each inflorescence. Depending on soil pH, blooms can change color from pink to blue.

Chameleon plant

2. Chameleon plant

Chameleon plant (Houttuynia cordata) is a perennial low-growing shrub. In spring, its leaves burst forth with a kaleidoscopic mix of red, green, and white coloration. The name "chameleon" references the plant's colorful nature. In summer, beautiful white flowers with bristle-like centers bloom. Chameleon plant is common in Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine.

Soybean

Soybean (Glycine max) was domesticated by the Chinese 6,000 to 9,000 years ago. In the eighteenth century, Europeans used soybean for ornamental purposes. It’s a versatile plant grown both for consumption and as an ingredient in manufactured products. It was even used by Henry Ford to make plastic parts for his Model T.

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Japanese maple

4. Japanese maple

A woody plant native to East Asia, the japanese maple features hand-shaped leaves with five-pointed lobes that resemble the palm of a hand. It has been cultivated for millennia in Japan for bonsai creation. Extracts from the branches and leaves of this plant are used as medicine in Chinese traditional medicine.

White clover

5. White clover

White clover (Trifolium repens) is a perennial herb, one of the most cultivated species of clover. It can be found on lawns and grasslands all over the world. White clover is often cultivated as a forage plant and used for green manure in agriculture.

Japanese camellia

6. Japanese camellia

The japanese camellia is a small tree or shrub with glossy green leaves and showy white, pink or red flowers. Native to Japan, it has since spread around the world and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant, even becoming the official state flower of the U.S. state of Alabama. In China, it is considered a symbol of good luck and is a staple of many New Year's celebrations.

Rose of sharon

7. Rose of sharon

Hibiscus syriacus is a deciduous shrub with trumpet-shaped pink, lavender, or white flowers. Although it was first collected by Western botanists from Syrian gardens, “rose of sharon” is native to south-central and southeastern China. Because of its hardiness and prolific blooming, it is cultivated all around the world. It is the national flower of South Korea, mentioned in its national anthem.

Crepe myrtle

8. Crepe myrtle

Crepe myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) is a highly ornamental small tropical tree or shrub, often multi-stemmed. It is native to India, Southeastern Asia, and Japan, and features a characteristic vase-shaped crown and beautifully-ruffled pink blooms that can last from early summer to autumn. It is also a popular nesting shrub for small birds.

Red clover

Red clover is widely cultivated as a fodder plant and green manure because its roots can fix nitrogen and increase the fertility of the soil. The cultivated Trifolium pratense is inevitably escaped and is now naturalized globally, including the United States and Australia. Its flowers are attractive, so it is also cultivated as an ornamental plant.

Rose evening primrose

10. Rose evening primrose

Rose evening primrose (Oenothera rosea) is an attractive perennial flower from Mexico and the southwest U.S. It grows best in well-drained soil on prairies and meadows and can tolerate both direct and partial sunlight. Its bright flowers bloom from late spring to mid-summer. As the name suggests, they open in the evening and remain so until morning. The seed pods have a papery texture.

Heavenly bamboo

11. Heavenly bamboo

Despite its name, heavenly bamboo is not actually bamboo at all but a semi-evergreen shrub. It gains its name because a casual observer may mistake it for actual bamboo. The bright red berries are a key distinguishing feature of this plant. They should be avoided, however, since they are toxic to most animals and humans alike.

China rose

The china rose (Rosa chinensis) is a Southwest China native. The plant has been cultivated for so long that it has become hard to tell the difference between wild and cultivated varieties. With medium-sized clusters of flowers and a long blooming season, it is easy to see why the china rose was chosen as the basis for many rose hybrids.

Common dandelion

13. Common dandelion

*Taraxacum officinale*, widely known as common dandelion, is a herbaceous perennial that can be found in temperate regions all over the world, in habitats with moist soils. The most popular feature of this plant is its fruits, furry spheres that are easily carried by the wind. Although it is generally considered a weed, common dandelion is actually edible and very nutritious.

Philadelphia fleabane

14. Philadelphia fleabane

Erigeron philadelphicus, colloquially known as philadelphia fleabane and fleabane daisy, is a herbaceous biennial or perennial plant commonly found in meadows, fields, woodlands, and along roadsides all over North America. This is an introduced species in Europe and Asia, and it is considered an invasive species in certain regions of these two continents.

Common lantana

15. Common lantana

The common lantana is a flowering plant that grows best in tropical environments. It spread outside the Americas when the Dutch brought it to Europe. The plant is generally regarded as an unwanted weed that reduces biodiversity. Additionally, it is toxic to livestock and harms the output of farmland.

Blindeyes

Blindeyes (Papaver dubium) is an annual wildflower that attracts bees and other pollinators. It self-seeds and can be invasive. The plant will grow to 51 cm tall with bright orange flowers that bloom in summer. Seeds ripen from summer to fall. It thrives in full sun in many soil conditions.

Madagascar periwinkle

17. Madagascar periwinkle

The madagascar periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) is an evergreen subshrub or herbaceous plant. It has a long history of cultivation. Over the years, many cultivars have been developed, most commonly with the aim of incorporating new colors or making the plant more tolerant to cold.

Big blue lilyturf

18. Big blue lilyturf

Big blue lilyturf is an evergreen perennial endemic to East Asia. Comparable to grape hyacinths, this plant has velvety, lush foliage and abundant lavender-blue spikes with black berries blooming next to it. It is a famous, enticing plant that looks especially good at sloping waterways. This low-maintenance plant is excellent for ground cover and edging.

Common sowthistle

19. Common sowthistle

Common sowthistle is a common weed originated in Europe and West Asia. Alongside many sister species that hard to distinguish, it is considered to be an invasive plant in many parts of the world. Its leaves with some bitter taste are editable either green as a part of a salad or cooked in various ways.

African marigold

20. African marigold

African marigold is a common garden plant with bright orange or red flowers. Its use in decorative and ceremonial gardens dates back to ancient Aztec civilizations. Not only does african marigold add bright colors, but it is also known to repel insects, rabbits, and deer thanks to its toxic latex.

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More Plants in Japan

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Most Common Toxic Plants

Japan's diverse climates, from subtropical regions to cold temperate zones, create an ideal environment for a variety of flora, including toxic plants. This mix of ecosystems, coupled with high humidity and abundant rainfall, supports the prevalence of poisonous species. Significant threats from toxic plants exist, exemplified by species such as , , and , which pose risks to both human and animal health.

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Most Common Flowers

Japan is known for its diverse and unique native flowers that thrive in its specific climate and soil. Among these beautiful blossoms are three particularly noteworthy ones: , , and . These flowers add to the visual allure of Japan's landscape, hold cultural and symbolic significance, and contribute to the region's ecological balance. With reliable sources, we can explore the distinctive features and importance of these flowers in Japan.

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Most Common Flowers of Spring

As Spring breathes life into Japan, a symphony of floral wonder begins, marked by warming temperatures and gentle rains. The season introduces a tapestry of color starting with the iconic , a symbol of renewal and fleeting beauty. Following closely are the vivid hues of , adding to the visual poetry that captivates locals and visitors alike. Not to be overlooked, brings its own unique charm, emblematic of the season's vibrancy and the country's ancestral connection to nature.

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Most Common Spring Fruits

Bathed in the gentle warmth and soft-pink petal showers of cherry blossoms, Japan's spring nurtures a vibrant flush of fruit growth. Eagerly anticipated are the succulent treasures of , the refreshing zest of , and the sweet debut of , each embodying the freshness and rebirth that define the season. These fruits, integral to local cuisine and festivals, capture the essence of spring's promise in their rich, natural flavors.

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Most Common Fruits

Japan's distinct four-season climate, volcanic ash soil, and ample rainfall create an idyllic environment for fruit cultivation. Key local fruit plants such as , , and thrive, bolstered by meticulous farming practices. These fruits carry cultural significance, often celebrated during specific seasons or festivals, and are integral to local cuisine. The dedication to quality and the unique terroir underscore Japan's reputation for exquisite and flavorful fruit varieties.

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Most Common Trees

The climatic and soil conditions in Japan are favorable for the growth of a variety of native trees. Among the most emblematic trees of the region are , , and . These trees hold great significance in Japanese culture and play important ecological roles in the environment. While the details of each tree are not provided, they contribute to the unique beauty and biodiversity of Japan's landscapes.

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Most Common Weeds

Japan's warm, humid summers and mild winters create an ideal breeding ground for a plethora of garden weeds. Among these, , , and are notably prevalent, posing common challenges for gardeners and landscapers. The maintenance of gardens in Japan often involves rigorous strategies to manage and mitigate the spread of these invasive species, which can otherwise quickly dominate native flora and cultivated landscapes.

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Most Common Tall Trees

In the archipelago of Japan, varied climatic zones, ranging from tropical in the south to cool temperate in the north, combined with diverse terrains, create a hospitable environment for towering arboreal giants. Among these, , , and are esteemed for stretching towards the heavens, symbolizing natural grandeur. Each species marks its presence not only by sheer height but also through ecological significance and cultural reverence, contributing to Japan’s rich natural tapestry.

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Most Common Flowers of Winter

Winter in Japan is a serene and frosty season that surprisingly hosts a variety of beautiful flowers. Among them are , , and , which brave the chill with resilience and grace. These flowers not only add a touch of color to the winter landscape but also carry deep symbolic meanings, representing hope, strength, and perseverance.

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