Editorial photo #13672095 Weather

Streets Turn Purple With Jacaranda Bloom In Lalitpur, Nepal

Jacaranda flowers bloom in Lalitpur, Nepal, forming a light purple layer beneath the canopy during the spring season in the Kathmandu Valley on May 6, 2026. Known scientifically as Jacaranda mimosifolia, the trees flower between March and April, with petals often falling and covering streets and sidewalks across the city. The species has been present in the Kathmandu Valley for over a century and is believed to have been introduced during the Rana period for ornamental planting. The blossoms are delicate and affected by wind and rainfall, which can cause early shedding. The trees are propagated through cuttings or grafting and typically take two to three years to flower. They grow well in sunny, well-drained conditions and are suited to Kathmandu's climate, though colder temperatures can reduce flowering. Mature trees can tolerate lower temperatures, while younger plants are more sensitive to frost. The seasonal bloom is a recurring feature of spring in the valley and is commonly seen in public spaces across the city. (Photo by Safal Prakash Shrestha/NurPhoto)