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Top 20 Most Common Trees in Japan

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 Japanese maple, Rose of sharon, and Kousa dogwood. 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 Trees
Japanese maple
1. 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.
Plant Height:
4 m to 15 m
Rose of sharon
2. 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.
Plant Height:
2 m to 4 m
Japanese cherry
3. Japanese cherry
The japanese cherry tradition, called Hanami, where people have picnics and outdoor parties under these trees, is a popular attraction. The excellent spring colors of the Prunus serrulata tree attract butterflies like the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail. Its showy pink and white flowers are in full bloom in early to mid-spring, and some are fragrant.
Plant Height:
4 m to 16 m
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Kousa dogwood
4. Kousa dogwood
The kousa dogwood is known for its ornamental appeal. The showy flowers and bark, as well as the lovely fall foliage, make this vase-shaped tree a great addition to your patio, yard, or lawn. The tree matures to about 9 m high and is often just as wide.
Plant Height:
4 m to 10 m
East Asian mallotus
5. East Asian mallotus
East Asian mallotus (Mallotus japonicus) is a deciduous shrub that will grow from 3.5 to 4.5 m tall. Blooms from spring to summer with creamy yellowish-white flowers. It thrives in full sun to partial shade. Seeded fruit ripens in summer. Also known as the food wrapper plant the large leaves were once used to wrap food.
Plant Height:
2 m to 4 m
Chinese hackberry
6. Chinese hackberry
This deciduous tree, the chinese hackberry or Celtis sinensis, is a deciduous tree and a member of the hemp family. It can grow to about 18 m tall. It can be considered invasive.
Plant Height:
20 m
Painted maple
7. Painted maple
Acer pictum is a deciduous tree up to 20 m tall, with gray bark. Leaves are non-compound, thin, up to 12 cm wide and 12 cm across, toothless, with 3, 5, 7, or 9 lobes.
Plant Height:
9 m to 12 m
Japanese zelkova
8. Japanese zelkova
This dense shade tree is particularly useful for planting near streets and in parking lots and lawns. It is also popularly used as a bonsai tree. Japanese zelkova is resistant to Dutch elm disease and has therefore been increasingly used in place of American elms.
Plant Height:
15 m to 30 m
Confederate rose
9. Confederate rose
A unique feature of the confederate rose (Hibiscus mutabilis) is its color-changing flowers. This shrubby rose bush blooms starting as white in the morning, turn pink at midday, and end red by the end of the day. This is a common plant species and although it is native to Southeast China, it can now be found on every continent except Antarctica.
Plant Height:
2 m to 5 m
Camphor tree
10. Camphor tree
Camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora) is an evergreen tree that primarily comes from China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. Commercially, camphor tree is used in the production of camphor and timber. Camphor, a waxy substance, is used to make gunpowder, incense, and insect repellent.
Plant Height:
20 m to 30 m
Bao li
11. Bao li
Quercus serrata is a deciduous oak tree reaching a height of 25 m. Leaves are up to 17 cm long by 9 cm wide leathery elliptical in shape with serrated margins. Petioles are short (3 cm). Flowers are pistillate inflorescences from 1.5 to 3 cm long occurring in spring. Seeds are oval shaped acorns 1.7 to 2 cm long and take 1 year to mature. Bark is grey or reddish-brown with longitudinal furrows.
Plant Height:
25 m
Glossy privet
12. Glossy privet
The glossy privet can be grown as a shrub or tree. This hardy, drought-tolerant plant has attractive glossy leaves and appealing white flowers. The flowers of glossy privet have a strong odor, so before planting make sure you find the scent acceptable. The berries that they produce are toxic if consumed.
Plant Height:
25 m
Indian Laurel
13. Indian Laurel
Indian Laurel (Ficus microcarpa) is a fig tree originating in China. The indian Laurel attracts the fig wasp pollinator. In some east Asian cultures, it is believed the indian Laurel is a meeting place for spirits.
Plant Height:
15 m to 25 m
Japanese chestnut
14. Japanese chestnut
Japanese chestnut is a medium-sized chestnut tree that has been used in plant-disease resistance research due to its resistance to chestnut blight and ink disease. An important nut crop, the plant grows in the foothills of Japan and Korea, where the nuts are enjoyed as a sweet snack.
Plant Height:
9 m to 12 m
Peach
15. Peach
Peach is native to Northwest China. China, Spain, and Italy are the top three producers of peaches world-wide. The peach is also the state fruit of Georgia. Peach production in the US in 2017 was valued at $599 million. The fruit has a yellow or white flesh, a sweet aroma, and a skin that is either velvety (peaches) or smooth (nectarines).
Plant Height:
2 m to 8 m
Japanese callicarpa
16. Japanese callicarpa
Japanese callicarpa fruit is an important food source for deer and various bird species. This plant is grown ornamentally for its attractive flowers and fruit, and it is a good pioneer species that can be used to revegetate degraded soils.
Plant Height:
2 m
Persian silk tree
17. Persian silk tree
Albizia julibrissin, colloquially known as persian silk tree, is a deciduous plant with characteristic pink, fuzzy inflorescences. Persian silk tree is mainly cultivated for decorative purposes. Its flowers have a mild, sweet smell and are often visited by butterflies, bees and hummingbirds.
Plant Height:
3 m to 16 m
Chinaberry tree
18. Chinaberry tree
The chinaberry tree is considered an invasive species in many areas because of its tendency to grow into impassable thickets and crowd out other plants. The entire chinaberry tree is poisonous to humans and many other animals, although cows and some birds have no problems eating the fruit.
Plant Height:
7 m to 12 m
Maidenhair tree
19. Maidenhair tree
Maidenhair tree (Ginkgo biloba) is a living fossil - a tree with such a long history that there are recognizable fossils dating to as much as 270 million years ago. Maidenhair tree is considered one of the earliest plant species cultivated by humans throughout history. The ripe fruits give off an unpleasant scent, so growers often plant only the male (non-fruiting) plants.
Plant Height:
20 m to 35 m
Ring-cupped oak
20. Ring-cupped oak
Ring-cupped oak (Quercus glauca) is an evergreen tree that can grow from 14 to 18 m tall. New foliage is a distinctive purple that turns green as the leaves mature. Blooms in spring with brownish catkin flowers. Produces acorns in summer and fall, providing food for small animals. Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Plant Height:
8 m to 12 m
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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 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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Most Common Plants

In Japan, you can find Bigleaf hydrangea, Chameleon plant, Soybean, Japanese maple, White clover, and more! There are 50 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.

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Identify grow and nurture the better way!
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