Yama-zakura (hill cherry). A variable, wide ranging Japanese species—botanically, Prunus serrulata var. spontanea—that has been identified as planted in only one or two Vancouver city parks. Plants are typically broad-spreading to somewhat umbrella-shaped with light pink to white flowers that emerge in late March or early April. The smallish, 2- to 3-cm wide flowers are accompanied by expanded bright red bud scales, which, together with the coppery emerging foliage, add a pink blush to trees in flower. The slender twigs and winter buds, small flowers, finely serrated leaf margins and light green leaf undersides help distinguish this species.