Japan

Last Chance to See Chicago's Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom This Spring

The bloom could last just one to six more days

The cherry blossom trees in Chicago's Jackson Park are in full bloom this spring, but the open buds won't last long.

In Jackson Park's Columbia Basin cherry blossom trees will remain in full bloom for just one to six more days, according to the Chicago Park District, and could change depending on weather.

To be considered in "full bloom," nearly all buds of the cherry blooms have opened, the Park District said in a release. The bloom is considered finished when the flower petals have fallen from the trees.

NBC 5 Storm Team meteorologists warn of a major freeze coming this week, likely on Tuesday, which could impact the lifespan of many blooming plants, including the springtime trees.

The cherry blossoms can be seen near 6401 S. Stony Island Ave on the east side of Cornell Avenue, just south of the Museum of Science and Industry. Parking is available along Hayes Drive and Cornell Avenue nearby.

"Chicago’s unseasonably warm weather in early spring and the level of maturity of the trees have provided the ideal conditions for the cherry blossom buds to bloom once and for all," the Park District said in a release.

Among the cherry blossoms, there are five different varieties, according to a release: Yoshino (pink), Gooseberry, Snow Goose, Snow Fountains and Accolade (pink).

According to the Park District, the first batch of trees were planted in 2013 to commemorate the 120th anniversary of the World's Columbian Exposition, with another 50 trees added the following three years to honor the 50th anniversary of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Chicago.

Contact Us