Cherry blossom, or sakura, is in full bloom currently in Japan and South Korea. But one can experience equally beautiful flowers of a similar kind here – from trumpet trees in Singapore – these are the best places to find our version of the sakura around the island.
Flower blooms are undeniably attractive and deserve a spot on your ‘gram. Hence, many travel to Japan and Korea around spring for hanami (flower viewing) of cherry blossoms. While Singapore’s tropical weather climate is not ideal for sakura, trumpet trees offer pink and white blooms that are just as captivating.
What are trumpet trees?
The trumpet tree, also known as tabebuia rosea or pink poui, takes its name from its flowers, which are trumpet-shaped and five-petalled. The flowers grow to about 5cm to 8cm long and bloom in clusters at around 18m to 25m high. Native to Central and South America, they were introduced to Singapore’s vegetation due to their shade-providing characteristics.
Trumpet trees can be found in various locations across Singapore. They are often planted in public parks like the Singapore Botanic Gardens, East Coast Park, and Gardens by the Bay, as well as residential areas and along roadsides. The flowering season typically occurs in March to April and August, triggered by hot weather conditions after heavy rain. Its blooms last for a couple of days before they start to wilt.
With their striking white and pink hues, trumpet trees enliven the cityscape. They contribute to Singapore’s lush greenery and are a testament to the city-state’s commitment to preserving its natural environment while enhancing its urban spaces.
Trumpet trees in Singapore: where to view the country’s ‘sakura’ season
Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park
Located centrally in the Bishan-Ang Mo Kio neighbourhood, this park is scattered with a lush group of trumpet trees. This scenic and well-groomed location also has fixtures like bridges and ponds that refine the landscape.
Address: 1384 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 1
Along Singapore River
The next time you are having brunch along the Singapore River, especially around Robertson Quay, keep your eyes peeled for a flowering grove of trumpet trees. Admire the petal-filled terrain as you take a sip of coffee.
Address: 99 Robertson Quay, Singapore 238258
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East Coast Park
A popular spot for picnics and camping, some sections of the picturesque East Coast Park feature verdant trumpet trees set against the coastline.
Address: Along East Coast Parkway and East Coast Park Service Road, Singapore 455486
Ulu Pandan Connector
Jogging does not have to be mundane and drab if it is along the Ulu Pandan Connector. Motivation comes in the form of lush blooms thanks to the flourishing trumpet trees along the track, making it one of the best ways to enjoy ‘sakura season’ in Singapore.
Address: Between Commonwealth Avenue West and Bukit Batok East Avenue 2, Singapore 19039
Jurong Lake Gardens
Find calm away from the manic city centre at Jurong Lake Gardens. Stroll along the tranquil lake surrounded by blooming pink trumpet trees. Perfect for an Instagram-worthy shot.
Address: 104 Yuan Ching Road, Taman Jurong (Beside Lakeside MRT)
Yishun Park
Those who stay in the North of Singapore can enjoy the abundant blooms of the attractive trumpet trees at Yishun Park. This serene site also has other plant species like rambutan, durian, and rubber trees.
Address: 51 Yishun Avenue 11, Singapore 768867
Gardens by the Bay
One place guaranteed to have trumpet trees is Gardens by the Bay, and they are not inside the domes. You can find a grove of them along the meadows where Marc Quinn’s ‘Planet’ sculpture is and at the Waterfront Plaza. The manicured grounds also offer visitors a comfortable plot to relax in.
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953
(Feature and hero image credit: Pakin Songmor/Getty Images)
This article first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Singapore
