Chinese peony (Paeonia lactiflora) is one of the most famous traditional flowers in China. An ornamental plant, its earliest record can be found in the Jin Dynasty (265-420). In Beijing's Jingshan Park, the herbaceous perennial flowering plant is in bloom. 

In ancient China, couples sent each other Chinese peony instead of roses as an expression of love and longing when they were about to part.

In late spring and early summer when most of the flowers, such as cherry blossoms, wither, peonies take over the stage.

(All images were taken by CGTN's Wang Yuqiang)

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