Discovering the Beauty and Virtues of Chinese Flower Goddesses: April - June
April Flower Peony
In traditional Chinese culture, each month is represented by a flower, and the Peony is the magnificent flower that represents the month of April. Known as the King of Flowers, the Peony is a symbol of wealth, prosperity, and honor.
First used as a valuable medicine in ancient times, the Peony was later cultivated in large scale by people in Northern and Southern Dynasties, and eventually introduced to royals in the Sui Dynasty. However, it was in the Tang Dynasty where the Peony truly flourished.
During the prosperous Tang Empire, Peony flowers were cultivated everywhere, from royal palaces to civilians' gardens. Its glossy, large, colorful, and fragrant blooms were widely praised and portrayed, becoming a representative of the flourishing Tang Dynasty.
Peony art, including poems, paintings, artworks, cosmetics, peony pattern jewelry, and decorations, all flourished during this period as well. It's no surprise that the Peony became one of the most popular flowers in China and is still highly regarded today.
The stunning beauty and rich history of the Peony have made it a prominent figure in Chinese culture, and the Flower Goddess of April. Its vibrant colors and elegant form have inspired art and literature for centuries, and it continues to symbolize glory, wealth, and prosperity in modern times.
May Flower Pomegranate
May Flower Pomegranate Blossom Flower of Commitment, Maturity, and Wealth
Pomegranate Blossom, the Flower of May, is an important cultural symbol in China, representing commitment, maturity, and wealth.
Believed to have been introduced to the Han Dynasty through the Silk Road, the Pomegranate flower was initially cultivated in the royal gardens. Its beauty and unique shape were soon noticed, and it became a symbol of feminine grace and beauty. The flower's red petals resemble a beautiful skirt, and it inspired the creation of a popular type of women's dress named Shiliu Qun.
As the Pomegranate flower gained popularity, it also became associated with traditional Chinese weddings. The flower's abundant seeds symbolize fertility and prosperity, making it a popular choice for wedding decorations.
With its rich cultural significance, the Pomegranate flower has become an essential element of Chinese art and literature. It is often featured in paintings, poems, and other forms of art, highlighting its importance in Chinese culture.
In summary, the Pomegranate Blossom is a unique and fascinating flower that embodies the values of commitment, maturity, and wealth. Its beauty and cultural significance have made it a beloved part of Chinese history and tradition.
June Flower Lotus
Lotus, the Flower of June, is a beloved and revered flower in Chinese culture. It symbolizes elegance, harmony, purity, and grace, and its name has a similar pronunciation as the Chinese word for "Harmony".
Lotus flowers grow from the mud and silt at the bottom of a pond or river, but they remain pure and beautiful, making them a powerful symbol of resilience and inner strength. They have been documented and cultivated in China since at least the Zhou Dynasty (1046 BC — 256 BC), and have been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine, food, artworks, and cosmetics.
Lotus flowers are also deeply associated with Taoism and Buddhism, two of the major religions in China. In Taoism, the Lotus Crown was once a popular hair ornament during the Tang Dynasty (618 — 907). The flower's symbolism of purity and inner strength also resonates with Buddhist teachings, where it represents the path to enlightenment.
Whether admired for its beauty, spiritual significance, or practical uses, the lotus is a beloved and enduring symbol in Chinese culture.
