Colorful flowers bloom during Urizun period in Tokashiki

Colorful flowers bloom during Urizun period in Tokashiki

Tennoume (Ribes ambiguum) in Tokashiki.


April 4, 2016 Ryukyu Shimpo
By Hideaki Yoneda

Tennoume (Ribes ambiguum) and Easter lilies bloomed in the wilderness of Tokashiki Island. The rupestrine flowers are found on the beach and bloom during the Urizun period from April to May.

Tennoume, which is also called Izasonsho, grows in southern Japan, from Kagoshima Prefecture to the southwest islands. The flower has small leaves and its floral petaloidy is white and looks similar to the Japanese apricot, giving it a warm appearance. While it used to be spotted frequently along the island’s coastline, the popular flower has recently diminished due to being overexploited for Bonsai.

The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species classifies the flower as a vulnerable species.

The Easter lily is blooming in sun-bathed fields along the coastline, coloring the area and fascinating onlookers. The flower is used for graduation and university entrance ceremonies. Wild goats eat the flower, causing a recent decline in its population.

(English translation by T&CT)

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