|
Commonly called "mums" or "tansies," this popular perennial's name comes from the Greek "Chrysos" (gold) and "Anthos" (flower).
The chrysanthemum has been the focus of Oriental adulation for centuries. Mums were considered one of the four Chinese "noble plants" ,and were the official badge of the Old Chinese Army. Since chrysanthemums were considered the flower of the Chinese noble class, they were prohibited in a lower-class
person's garden. The Chinese believe that a chrysanthemum given to one's beloved, after its being used to wipe one's month after drinking wine, will ensure undying love and fidelity.
Called "kikus" in Japanese, chrysanthemums were featured on the Imperial Crest of Japan, and were so beloved by Japanese emperors that they sat upon chrysanthemum thrones. The Japanese still hold the chrysanthemum as a symbol of the sun.
They consider the orderly unfolding of the mum's petals to be a symbol of perfection. They also presume that a single chrysanthemum petal placed in the bottom of a wine glass encourages a long and healthy life.
While chrysanthemums generally denote cheerfulness and rest, individual colors do carry specific messages:
red for love, good luck and best wishes;
white for truth; and yellow for slighted love.
Chrysanthemums will be welcomed throughout the British Isles and North America for any occasion.
In Italy, however, their exclusive association with dead makes chrysanthemums.
|
