The osmanthus tree in Children's Park blooms. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

An osmanthus tree in Hangzhou's Children's Park has long been the herald of autumn's arrival in the city.

After a recent spell of cooler weather and rain, the tree's flowers are coming into bloom.

The tree belongs to the early silver osmanthus variety and is one of the earliest autumn bloomers each year. The early blooming is attributed not only to the unique geographical conditions of the Manjuelong area but also to the inherent characteristics of the tree itself.

According to park staff, the tree is particularly sensitive to temperature fluctuations. The recent weather, akin to a steam bath with high humidity, has triggered the sensitive variety to start blooming.

"At present, about 15 percent of the flowers have bloomed. By this weekend, we expect that number to reach 50 percent, making it the prime period for enjoying this fragrant spectacle."

The remaining osmanthus will also start blooming soon, with the best time to admire their blossoms expected to be in mid-September.

Osmanthus flowers come in pale yellow, medium yellow, orange-yellow, or orange-red hues. The blooming season spans from late August to mid to late October. The first wave of blossoms tends to be the most fragrant, with subsequent waves diminishing slightly in intensity.

The osmanthus tree in Children's Park blooms. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]