Read this sentence from the section "First Tree Planted by Mrs. Taft." Because of this novel characteristic which singles out Washington from other cities, coupled with the fact that the trees are now in full splendor, a short history of their appearance in the capital city is of interest.

How does the word "novel" affect the meaning of the sentence?

It suggests that cherry trees grow natively in Washington, D. C.

It emphasizes how unusual it is for a U. S. city to have so many cherry trees.

It implies that the cherry trees are a new addition to Washington, D. C.

It shows that cherry trees have become common in many U. S. cities.