Most appreciated flowers in China

China has a wide variety of flowering plants.

In all of the species, ten flowers are considered as the most appreciated in Chinese history and culture. They are not only popular but also have profound historical connotations.

Plum blossom

Plum blossom /VCG Photo

Plum blossom (Prunus mume) originally came from China, around the Yangtze River and was later introduced to other countries including Japan and Vietnam. It starts to flower in mid-winter and can grow to 4-10 meters tall.

The flowers have a strong fragrant scent. Due to its cold-resistance character, plum blossom stands for courage, hope and new life in Chinese culture.

Peony

Peony / VCG Photo

Peony (Paeonia suffruticosa), characterized by large blossoms, multiple petals, and vivid colors, is known as the “king of flowers” in China.

Peonies have been cultivated in China since early history. It's a traditional floral symbol of the country, also known as “flower of riches and honor.”

Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemum /VCG Photo

Chrysanthemum (Dendranthema morifolium（Ramat.）Tzvel.) was first cultivated in China and is known as one of the Four Gentlemen in Chinese and East Asian art. It is especially important during the Double Ninth Festival.

Chrysanthemum is a perennial herbaceous plant. It has many varieties of different colors such as yellow, white, purple-red, rose red and so on. The flowering period is usually from September to November in China.

Orchid

Orchid /VCG Photo

Orchid (Orchidaceae) is a perennial herb that is easily distinguished from other plants. Orchids are primitively bilaterally symmetrical, but sometimes it can be difficult to notice this kind of symmetry.

Orchids have wide distribution. It can grow almost in every habitat apart from glaciers. Depending on species, flowers of orchid can live from a few hours to six months. Orchids are often associated with virtue in Chinese culture.

Chinese rose

Chinese rose /VCG Photo

Chinese rose or China rose (Rosa chinensis) is native to southwest China. It's dubbed as “Queen of the Flowers” in China. The flower has pink to red petals. Its shrub can grow to 1.2m tall.

Chinese rose is easy to cultivate. Because of its long blossom period and high ornamental value, the flower is appreciated worldwide.

Azalea

Azalea /VCG Photo

Azaleas (Rhododendron Simsii Planch.) bloom in spring, and its flowering period can last for several weeks. The flower is native to several continents including Asia, North America, and Europe.

The azalea is known as “thinking of home bush” in China. The plant is poisonous, and eating large amounts of any part of azalea or honey made from the flower can cause life-threatening poisoning.

Camellia

Camellia /VCG Photo

Camellia (Camellia japonica L.) are found in eastern and southern Asia. It usually has a fast growth rate. Their leaves are simple and slick. The flowers are typically large with five to nine petals. The colors of camellias vary from white to red, but yellow camellias are only found in Vietnam and south China.

Camellias have significant economic importance in Asia. They are processed to make beverage tea and oils.

Lotus

Lotus /VCG Photo

Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) usually grows in shallow and murky waters. They are often pink and white and enjoy warm sunlight. It is native to Asia and is commonly cultivated in water gardens.

The roots of the lotus are planted in the mud of the pond, but the flowers always float above the water surface. It's a symbol of purity and sincerity in Chinese culture.

S‍weet olive

Sweet olive /VCG Photo

Sweet olive (Osmanthus fragrans) is also called tea olive and fragrant olive. It is an evergreen shrub that is native to Asia.

It's an evergreen shrub or small tree growing to 3-12m tall. It has small flowers and strong fragrance. The flowers usually blossom in late summer and autumn. In China, the flowers are used to make jam, tea, and traditional medicine.

Chinese sacred lily

‍Chinese sacred lily /VCG photo

Chinese sacred lily (Narcissus tazetta L. var. chinensis Roem.) is a perennial that grows from a bulb. It is a winter ornamental flower that can be cultivated in water or soil. The flower may cause dizziness and convulsion if ingested.

Quiz

10 most appreciated flowers in China