The Jacarandas are Blooming
When streets in Whittier are covered with a blanket of lavender, we know the Jacaranda trees are blooming. A signal of springtime, this is one of Whittier’s great annual happy moments. This is a surreal site to see; lawns, streets, sidewalks and driveways coming together as one single, soft carpet of vibrant lavender flowers
(Click the "enlarge" icon on the slide show to see larger images)
An Experience you will always remember
It's worth detouring off the main streets, taking a moment to stop and walk among these lavender blooms. When I took these photos in 2008 it was about 6:00 AM and the area was covered in flowers, blending walkways with front lawns, in a forest of color. It was very quiet, except for the buzzing bees hovering over the ground. It was an amazing experience. I recommend visiting the Jacarandas early in the morning before cars create tracks in the streets or the flowers are swept away from sidewalks. Wear shoes and long pants, being mindful to not step on the bees. It's one of those experiences that will stay with you for the rest of your life.
Find them on a Google Map
You can find Jacaranda trees all over Whittier, in parks and residential areas, but there are two areas which are distinctive for having many trees together, creating a dramatic effect. I also located these two areas using Google Maps; near La Cuarta and College and also between Gunn and Mills south of Whittier Blvd. As of June, 2009, Google's satellite images still show the lavender patches of trees so you can find them and enjoy this great flower experience. If, by the time you read this article, the Jacarandas do not appear on the map, fear not; simply drive to these areas around April to May, and you will most certainly be able to see the tall, lavender trees, towering over the rooftops.
A Popular Tree, Worldwide
There are many species of Jacaranda trees throughout the world. They grow in subtropical regions and are drought resistant, which makes them great for Southern California. They are also very popular in Phoenix Arizona and South Florida. Internationally, Jacarandas are everywhere in the world that does not have frost. To name some popular sites: Australia, New South Wales, Pakistan, India, Mexico, Zimbabwe, New Zealand, Israel, and Brazil.
This is another great reason to live in this beautiful city and “Shop Whittier”.
Story and photography by Rick Elias
