‘Mikuruma-gaeshi’ (the royal carriage returns). This distinctive Sato Zakura (Japanese village cherry), known since the early 15th century, has a name steeped in Japanese courtly tradition. As the story goes… Two courtiers each glanced at a cherry tree while passing through a village, but each recalled the tree differently. One said the beautiful flowers were single, while the other was sure they were doubles. So they had their carriage turned around and upon seeing it again, were pleased to discover they were both right. ‘Mikuruma-gaeshi’ is known for its sparse, open branching and very large, single and double pink flowers. The cultivar is only rarely seen on Vancouver streets and remaining specimens are unfortunately mostly disfigured with disease.
