Presenting today's Color Challenge photograph for Sunday...
Magnificent Violet Chrysanthemum
More about the beautiful Chrysanthemum
The first chrysanthemums were cultivated in China centuries ago. From China, the chrysanthemum made its way over to Japan by Buddhist monks in AD 400. In the 17th century, the chrysanthemum was introduced to Europe where Karl Linnaeus, the father of modern taxonomy, coined the Western name “chrysanthemum.”
The name is derived from the Greek words “chrysos” meaning gold, and “anthemon” meaning flower. Today they are also commonly referred to as “mums.”
Chrysanthemum Symbolism & Colors
Chrysanthemums generally symbolize longevity, fidelity, joy and optimism. Various colors symbolize other important meanings as well.
- Red chrysanthemums symbolize love and deep passion.
- Yellow chrysanthemums symbolize neglected love or sorrow.
- White chrysanthemums symbolize loyalty and honesty.
- Violet chrysanthemums symbolize a wish to get well.
Chrysanthemum Cultural Significance
Since the chrysanthemum was first cultivated in China, the flower still holds deep cultural significance to this day, especially in art. The chrysanthemum is one of the Four Gentleman, which include the plum blossom, the orchid, and bamboo. These are the four main plants depicted in traditional Chinese watercolor paintings, and are derived from Confucianism.
In Japan, the official seal for the Imperial family is a chrysanthemum with 16 petals and is used for official government documents. In the military, the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum is the most prestigious honor that can be awarded by the Emperor.
Chrysanthemum Facts
- The chrysanthemum is the official birth flower of November.
- In the United States, the chrysanthemum is the largest commercially produced flower and is known as the “Queen of Fall Flowers.”
- The chrysanthemum head is actually a cluster of many small flower heads.
- The chrysanthemum belongs to the Asteraceae family which is the largest family of flowering plants and includes over 23,000 species.
- Victorians used chrysanthemums to show friendship and well-wishing.
- Buddhists use the chrysanthemum as offerings due to their powerful Yang energy.
- In China, the chrysanthemum is traditionally offered to the elderly as they symbolize long life as well as good luck in the home.
- In Australia, chrysanthemums are the official flower for Mother’s Day due to their nickname “mums.”
Chrysanthemum information source
Photograph's original to Paradise Found
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