The irresistible story of Japanese cherry blossoms threatened by political ideology and saved
by an unknown Englishman'This is not just a tale of trees but of . . . endeavour war and
reconciliation' Sunday TimesCollingwood Ingram born in 1880 became known as 'Cherry' for his
defining obsession. As a young man he travelled to Japan and learned of the astonishing
displays of cherry blossoms or sakura.On a return visit in 1926 Ingram witnessed frightening
changes to the country's cherry population. A cloned variety was sweeping the landscape and
being used as a symbol for Japan's expansionist ambitions. Determined to protect the diversity
of the trees Ingram began sending the rare varieties from his own garden in England back to
Japan with the help of a network of 'cherry guardians'.This is an eloquent portrait of an
extraordinary man whose legacy we enjoy every spring and his unsung place in botanic
history.'Engrossing . . . A portrait of great charm and sophistication' Christopher Harding
GuardianWinner of the 2020 Award for Excellence from The Council on Botanical and Horticultural
Libraries
