Cherry industry states claim to home origins

Cherry blossom is now in full bloom in many areas of China.

It is also a major attraction in Japan, where it is known as sakura and has become a national icon. However, it is claimed that the cherry tree and its blossom originated in China.

He Zongru, chairman of the China Cherry Industry Association, an NGO committed to developing the country's cherry blossom-related business, said few Chinese know this.