The Symbolism of Plum Blossoms in Chinese Culture and Feng Shui: History, Legends, and Applications

Table of Contents

1. Overview of Plum Blossoms

- Symbolism of Plum Blossoms
- Status of Plum Blossoms in Chinese Culture

2. Plum Blossoms as Traditional Chinese Medicine

- Medicinal Effects of Plum Blossoms
- Plum Blossom Tea and Other Therapies
- Application of Plum Blossom Acupuncture

3. Plum Blossoms and Feng Shui

- Symbolism of Plum Blossoms in Feng Shui
- Five Elements and Energy Balance of Plum Blossoms
- How to Use Plum Blossom Feng Shui in Your Home or Office

4. Feng Shui Placement of Plum Blossoms

- Best Placement of Plum Blossoms
- Feng Shui Effect of Plum Blossom Decorations
- Use of Plum Blossoms in Different Spaces

5. The Meaning of Plum Blossoms as Gifts

- Cultural Background of Giving Plum Blossoms
- Suitable Occasions for Giving Plum Blossoms

6. Best Places to Appreciate Plum Blossoms

- Best Season to Appreciate Plum Blossoms
- Famous Plum Blossom Gardens and Festivals in China

7. Symbolism of Plum Blossoms in Art and Culture

- The application of plum blossoms in poetry and painting
- The influence of plum blossoms in martial arts
- Plum blossom patterns and their auspicious meanings

8. The philosophical meaning of plum blossoms

- Plum blossoms and life wisdom
- The spiritual power symbolized by plum blossoms

9. Conclusion

- The enlightenment brought to us by plum blossoms
- The symbolic value of plum blossoms in life

Plum blossoms are one of the most representative flowers in Chinese culture. Their elegant and refined image is deeply loved by people and is known as the "national flower". Plum blossoms are widely planted throughout China and are highly respected not only for their beautiful appearance, but also for their profound cultural heritage and symbolic meaning.

Although its official name is "plum blossom", in China, people usually refer to it as "plum", which means flowers that bloom in winter. Plum blossoms are famous for their elegant five-petal corolla and are regarded as a symbol of nobility and elegance in Asian culture. As one of the "flowers of the four seasons", plum blossoms represent winter, along with peony, lotus and chrysanthemum, which symbolize spring, summer and autumn. At the same time, it is also one of the "three friends of winter", and together with pine and bamboo, it symbolizes the spirit of perseverance. In addition, plum blossoms are also among the "four gentlemen", and together with orchids, chrysanthemums and bamboo, they symbolize purity, nobility and tenacity.

The Chinese love plum blossoms not only for their elegant and refined appearance, but also for their proud blooming in the harsh winter. They are regarded as an ideal symbol of perseverance, inner beauty and humble character. From ancient times to the present, plum blossoms have been an important theme in poetry, painting, culture and art, showing the Chinese nation's praise for the resilience of life. In Feng Shui, plum blossoms are a symbol of auspiciousness and success, and are said to bring positive energy and vitality to family and career.

On July 21, 1964, China officially announced plum blossoms as the national flower to recognize its important position in cultural and spiritual levels. Although peony is also loved by people for its rich and gorgeous connotations, plum blossoms were eventually established as the national flower for their tenacity and pure character. Whether it is a cultural symbol, artistic creation, or Feng Shui layout, plum blossoms carry rich connotations and show the unique charm of Chinese culture.

Next, let us take a deeper look at the historical origins, cultural symbolism and unique role of plum blossoms in Feng Shui.

Plum Blossoms in Chinese Culture

Plum blossoms have profound cultural significance in China and throughout East Asia. As a flower that blooms proudly in the cold of winter, plum blossoms symbolize tenacity, perseverance, and hope, and they can still show their tenacious vitality and unique beauty even in the harshest environments.

Symbolism of Plum Blossoms
The pink or white petals of plum blossoms are particularly vivid against the snow-covered ground, conveying the spirit of "blooming alone in the cold." Its ability to bloom and bloom even in the face of winter frost and cold makes it a symbol of patience, tenacity, and inner strength in Chinese culture.

Although the plum blossom blooms mainly in winter, it is also a messenger of spring and is believed to indicate the coming warmth, change, and prosperity. Therefore, in Chinese mythology, immortals eat plums to increase their strength and vitality, which further strengthens the connection between plum blossoms and vitality.

Plum blossoms can survive in all kinds of extreme environments, whether it is a city park or a remote cold mountain, it can grow tenaciously and show its indomitable life posture. Ancient legends say that the fragrance of plum blossoms can "light up the cold world in winter", implying that even in the darkest moments of life, happiness and beauty may still quietly sprout.

The moral meaning of plum blossoms
The Confucian scholar Zhu Xi further endowed plum blossoms with four moral values:
- Great potential (budding) - represents hope and infinite possibilities for the future;
- Wealth (blooming) - symbolizes success, prosperity and harvest;
- Harmony (result) - implies the balanced coexistence of man, nature and society;
- Justice (maturity) - embodies morality, character and responsibility.

According to the theory of the Book of Changes, these qualities echo the "Way of Heaven", making plum blossoms a philosophical symbol of beauty beyond nature, and embodying people's pursuit of world order and moral ideals.

The practical value of plum blossoms
Plum blossoms are not just ornamental plants. Their fruits - plums, have been an important part of Chinese life since ancient times, especially in the food culture of the Ming Dynasty. Due to their unique flavor and health benefits, plum trees are still widely planted and their fruits are used to make a variety of foods.

Plums have a wide range of uses, including:
- Preserved, dried, and pickled plums - as snacks or condiments, with a unique flavor;
- Sour plum sauce - used to pair with meat or make dipping sauces;
- Plum drinks - plums diluted with water can be made into summer cooling drinks;
- Plum wine - fermented or soaked plums to make liqueurs with a mellow taste.

In addition to food uses, plum trees also bring considerable economic income to China's tourism industry. When plum blossoms are in full bloom, plum gardens and plum blossom-themed scenic spots across the country will attract a large number of tourists to come and enjoy the fragrance and poetic atmosphere of plum blossoms.

Feng Shui and amulet functions of plum blossoms
Since ancient times, plum blossoms have also been regarded as a kind of amulet to ward off evil and avoid evil. Traditional Feng Shui believes that plum blossoms can bring positive energy and dispel negative influences, so many gardens and temples will plant plum trees in the northeast corner to protect the place from evil spirits.

Plum blossoms also have a place in martial arts culture. In the Southern Shaolin Temple, one of the famous Wing Chun training grounds is called "Changchun Pavilion", also known as "Wing Chun Pavilion", which is surrounded by plum trees, symbolizing the combination of martial arts spirit and the tenacity represented by plum blossoms.

Symbolic meaning of plum blossoms in Chinese culture

Plum blossoms, also known as "winter plums", carry rich symbolic meanings in Chinese culture. It not only represents courage, perseverance and the spirit of overcoming difficulties, but also symbolizes the circulation of life and rebirth.

Tenacity and hope: the messenger of winter
Plum blossoms are the first flowers to bloom in the severe winter cold, so they are known as the "messenger of spring", heralding the end of winter and the arrival of spring, symbolizing a new beginning and hope. It can bloom in ice and snow, showing extremely strong vitality, and is therefore endowed with the qualities of perseverance and survival in adversity.

Plum blossoms are also one of the "three friends" in traditional Chinese culture, namely the "three friends of winter" (pine, bamboo, and plum), representing a noble character that can withstand the test of severe cold. Its cold-resistant characteristics make it a symbol of loyalty, steadfastness, and purity, and it is believed to inspire people to maintain their beliefs and stick to their original intentions in difficult times.

Ideal Personality in Confucianism
In Confucian philosophy, plum blossoms are endowed with noble moral qualities. Confucian scholars believe that plum blossoms symbolize ideal personality and embody the character and cultivation of a "gentleman".

The five petals of plum blossoms symbolize the "Five Blessings" in ancient China:
1. Longevity - healthy and long life, vigorous vitality;
2. Wealth - abundant wealth and prosperous career;
3. Kangning - good health and peace of mind;
4. Cultivating good virtues - noble character and upright behavior;
5. A perfect life - a happy death without regrets.

In traditional Chinese beliefs, five is a sacred number, so the five petals of plum blossoms are also regarded as a symbol of wealth and success. During the Chinese New Year, people often place plum blossoms or plum blossom artworks to pray for good luck and blessings.

Zen and plum blossoms: the brevity of life and enlightenment
In Zen thought, the short bloom of plum blossoms is seen as a symbol of the impermanence of life. It reminds people to cherish the present and seize every moment of life. The existence of plum blossoms is not only to decorate the cold winter, but also a revelation of the attitude towards life - even if the environment is difficult, we must strive to bloom our own brilliance.

Plum blossoms and the spirit of the Chinese nation
Because plum blossoms can survive in extremely cold environments and bloom more prosperously at low temperatures, they have become a symbol of the tenacious spirit of the Chinese nation. As the national flower of the Republic of China, plum blossoms carry national identity and cultural values.

The "three buds and five petals" design of plum blossoms also symbolizes:
- The Three Principles of the People (nationality, democracy, and livelihood)
- The Five-Power Constitution (executive, legislative, judicial, examination, and supervision)

In addition, Confucian philosophy also gives plum blossoms the following symbols:
- Five-ethnic republic (Han, Manchu, Mongolian, Hui, and Tibetan)
- Five relationships (ruler and minister, father and son, brothers, husband and wife, and friends)
- Five constants (benevolence, righteousness, courtesy, wisdom, and trustworthiness)
- Five morals (loyalty, filial piety, chastity, righteousness, and honesty)

Plum blossoms in art and literature
In traditional Chinese culture, plum blossoms are often combined with other elements to form rich symbolic meanings:
- Plum blossoms + Peony / Magnolia - symbolize natural beauty and noble temperament;
- Plum blossoms + Peach blossoms - represent loyal friendship;
- Plum blossoms + Narcissus - symbolize the change of seasons from winter to spring;
- Plum blossoms + Sparrows - imply good news is coming.

Plum blossoms in Chinese mythology
In Chinese mythology, plum blossoms are often endowed with mysterious and sacred characteristics. They symbolize those who are tenacious and dare to challenge difficulties. In many folk tales, heroes or immortals are often inspired by plum blossoms and use their symbolic power to overcome adversity and achieve transformation in life.

Plum blossoms are not only a beautiful plant, but also a cultural symbol. They carry the Chinese people's expectations for life resilience, moral character and a better future. Whether in poetry, painting, feng shui, or in daily life, plum blossoms symbolize perseverance, positivity and good hope, reminding people that they can still bloom their own brilliance in adversity.

History and Origin of Chinese Plum Blossoms

The history of plum blossom cultivation in China can be traced back thousands of years, and it is an important symbol of Chinese culture. It is not only an ornamental plant, but also plays an important role in literature, art, food and political symbolism.

Origin and Spread of Plum Blossoms

Plum blossoms are native to the Yangtze River Basin in southwest China, and were mainly grown in temperate and subtropical regions in the early days. Due to its cold-resistant characteristics, farmers gradually introduced it to the cooler northern regions. With the spread of Chinese culture, plum blossoms were brought to the Korean Peninsula and Japan, and were widely planted in East Asia, becoming one of the most important flowers in the entire Asian culture.

According to historical records, the cultivation of plum trees has a history of more than 3,000 years. It was originally mainly used for food, and its fruit, plum, was an important part of the ancient diet. Later, plum blossoms were gradually incorporated into garden design due to their unique aesthetic value, and became a classic subject in the writings of literati and poets.

The evolution of plum blossoms in Chinese history

Pre-Qin to Han Dynasty (2000 BC - 220 AD): Early Cultural Symbols
The earliest records of plum blossoms can be traced back to the Book of Songs and Chu Ci, in which the allusion of "looking at plum blossoms to quench thirst" has been passed down to this day. In the Warring States and Han dynasties, plum blossoms began to be widely planted and gradually integrated into the culture of literati.

Tang Dynasty (618 - 907): The literary and artistic symbol of plum blossoms
In the Tang Dynasty, nobles and monks admired the beauty of plum blossoms and gave them deeper cultural significance. Plum blossoms began to appear in palace gardens and became an important variety for royal flower appreciation.

At the same time, poets and painters began to use plum blossoms as the theme and created a large number of poems and paintings, making it a symbol of the elegant feelings of literati. For example, Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu wrote in "Plum Blossoms on the River":

"Plum buds burst before the twelfth lunar month, and plum blossoms bloom after the New Year. I know that spring is good, but what can I do about my sorrow?"

Plum blossoms during this period not only represent natural beauty, but also become a medium for people to express their thoughts and emotions.

Song Dynasty (960 - 1279): The Peak of Plum Blossom Culture
The Song Dynasty was the most prosperous period for the development of plum blossom culture, and was known as the "Age of Plum Blossoms". Many poets, calligraphers, painters and philosophers have made in-depth descriptions and discussions on plum blossoms.

Confucian master 'Zhu Xi' gave plum blossoms four virtues:
1. Buds waiting to bloom - represents potential and hope
2. Blooming - symbolizes wealth and prosperity
3. Fruit - implies harmony and achievement
4. Maturity - symbolizes justice and perfect personality

Plum blossoms not only became a symbol of the spirit of the literati, but also represented the philosophical concept of maintaining noble character in difficult situations.

The famous Song Dynasty poet Lu You's "Bosuanzi·Ode to the Plum Blossom" has become a classic that has been passed down through the ages:

"I have no intention of struggling for spring, I let all the flowers be jealous. Falling into mud and turning into dust, only the fragrance remains the same."

The plum blossom here symbolizes the spirit of perseverance, and can maintain one's original heart even in adversity.

Yuan, Ming and Qing Dynasties (1279 - 1912): Political Symbols and National Spirit
The symbolic meaning of plum blossoms was further deepened during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. It not only represents the noble qualities of literati, but also becomes a symbol of politics and national spirit.

1. Symbol in the Anti-Qing and Restoration Movement
In the early Qing Dynasty, many Han literati regarded plum blossoms as a symbol of the anti-Manchu struggle. Because plum blossoms are cold-resistant and bloom independently, they symbolize the spirit of not succumbing to foreign rule. Anti-Qing patriots often compare themselves to plum blossoms, implying adherence to integrity.

2. From peony to plum blossom: the transformation of the status of the national flower
During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the peony was always regarded as the national flower, symbolizing prosperity and wealth. However, in the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China, with social unrest, people's spiritual demands changed, and the tenacious plum blossom gradually replaced the peony and became a symbol that better represented the national spirit.

In the revolutionary movement in the late Qing Dynasty, the plum blossom symbolized national independence and the spirit of resistance. People believed that even under the oppression of external forces and the Qing government, the Chinese nation still stood proudly like the plum blossom, waiting for the opportunity to be reborn.

Modern symbol and contemporary application of plum blossom

Republic of China period (1912 - present): national symbol
The plum blossom was officially established as the national flower in the Republic of China (Taiwan), symbolizing the tenacity of the Chinese nation.

The plum blossom pattern appears on many government emblems, including:
- The emblem of the Presidential Office of the Republic of China
- The Olympic flag of Chinese Taipei (Plum Blossom Flag)
- The logo of China Airlines
- The rank insignia of senior officers of the Chinese armed forces
- The obverse of the NT$0.5 coin and the reverse of the NT$10 coin
- The watermark on the NT$ 

Since ancient times, the plum blossom has not only been a plant, but also a spiritual symbol, representing the cultural concepts of tenacity, independence, and noble character. From poetry, painting, garden art to political symbols, the plum blossom runs through the development of Chinese history and has become the embodiment of the indomitable spirit of the Chinese nation.

The Chinese Legend of Plum Blossoms

In Chinese culture, plum blossoms are not just a kind of flower, they also carry many moving legends and myths. The tenacious vitality of plum blossoms makes them a symbol of tenacity, hope and beauty. The following are several widely circulated plum blossom legends.

The Enlightenment of Students and Plum Blossoms
Legend has it that there was a poor student in ancient times who was depressed by the cold weather in winter and even had the idea of ​​dropping out of school. However, one day, he accidentally saw a blooming plum tree in the snow. Although the surroundings were still freezing cold, the plum blossoms still bloomed proudly. The student was deeply moved and realized the truth of life - just as plum blossoms bloom in the cold winter, people should also persevere in difficult situations. Inspired by this, he regained his confidence and eventually achieved success.

This story expresses the spirit of plum blossoms: perseverance and blooming in adversity, and also inspires future generations to maintain perseverance and pursue success no matter how many difficulties they face.

Tears of an Exiled Fairy Turned into Plum Blossoms
Another legend tells of a fairy who was banished to the mortal world. She was once a beautiful fairy in heaven, but because of her mistakes, she was banished to the mortal world and lived a wandering life. She suffered in the cold winter, missed her homeland, and cried every night. Legend has it that her tears fell on the cold land and unexpectedly grew plum trees. Since then, plum blossoms have become a symbol of beauty and love, and also symbolize those who can maintain noble qualities in difficult situations.

It is believed that plum blossoms can drive away evil spirits and negative energy. Its appearance not only brings beauty, but also brings good luck and hope to people.

The connection between plum blossoms and the four seasons
There is an old Chinese saying: "When plum blossoms are in full bloom, winter has not yet ended; when plum blossoms wither, spring has arrived." This proverb vividly describes the uniqueness of plum blossoms - it is the last symbol of winter and the messenger of spring.

In the severe cold, all flowers wither, but plum blossoms bloom alone, heralding the coming warm spring. Therefore, the ancients often used plum blossoms to symbolize hope and rebirth, implying "bitterness will be followed by sweetness".

Plum Blossom Goddess: Princess Shouyang
In Chinese mythology and historical legends, Princess Shouyang is considered the "Plum Blossom Goddess".

It is said that during the Southern Song Dynasty (420-479), Princess Shouyang, the daughter of Emperor Wu of Song, was taking a nap by the window of the palace on a winter afternoon. A plum blossom fell with the wind and landed on her forehead, leaving a beautiful flower-shaped mark. After seeing this, the palace maids imitated it and painted plum blossom patterns on their foreheads. This makeup style was later called "plum blossom makeup".

Plum blossom makeup gradually became popular among court and aristocratic women, and later spread to the people and became a part of ancient women's makeup.

People therefore revered Princess Shouyang as the Plum Blossom Goddess, and designated the seventh day of the first lunar month of each year as the "Plum Blossom Festival" to commemorate the beauty and symbolic significance of plum blossoms.

The status of plum blossoms in Chinese literature and art

Plum blossoms are not only a symbol of tenacity and hope in Chinese culture, but also widely appear in poetry, painting, sculpture, calligraphy, gardening and other art forms.

Song Dynasty poets' praise of plum blossoms
In Chinese poetry, plum blossoms are a highly respected subject, especially in the Song Dynasty, when poets frequently used plum blossoms to express their feelings.

- Lu You: "I have no intention of struggling for spring, and I let all the flowers be jealous. It falls into mud and turns into dust, but its fragrance remains the same."

- This poem "卜算子·咏梅" expresses that although plum blossoms wither in the wind and rain, their integrity and fragrance remain unchanged, symbolizing the noble and unyielding spirit of literati.

- Su Shi also commented: "The beauty of plum blossoms is its bitterness."

- The "bitterness" here refers to the fact that plum blossoms must experience severe cold to bloom the most beautiful flowers, implying that life must experience challenges before it can truly grow.

Legend of plum blossom wife and crane child
The allusion of "plum blossom wife and crane child" originated from the Northern Song poet Lin Bu (967-1028).

Lin Bu never married in his life and lived in seclusion on Gushan Mountain outside the West Lake in Hangzhou, concentrating on spiritual practice and poetry creation. He planted plum trees and raised a group of white cranes. He once said: "Plum blossoms are my wife and cranes are my children."

This legend has become a symbol of the elegant and secluded life of literati. Later literati often called themselves "plum blossom wife and crane child" to express their indifference to worldly fame and fortune and their pursuit of a peaceful spiritual world.

Symbolism and auspicious meaning of plum blossoms

Joy on the "plum" tip: a beautiful double meaning
In Chinese painting art, plum blossoms often appear together with magpies, forming the auspicious meaning of "joy on the eyebrows". This expression uses the homophony of "plum" and "eyebrow", implying joy and happiness.

Another classic pattern is "Happiness Heralds the Arrival of Spring", in which a magpie stands on a plum blossom branch, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the new year full of joy and beauty.

Ancient coins in the shape of plum blossoms
The popularity of plum blossoms even influenced the design of ancient coins. In some dynasties, people minted coins in the shape of plum blossoms to symbolize wealth, auspiciousness and good luck.

Application of plum blossoms in clothing and dance
Plum blossoms are also widely used in traditional costumes and jewelry in ancient China. Many embroidery patterns and accessories are based on plum blossoms, implying purity, tenacity and good wishes.

At the same time, plum blossom elements often appear in Chinese classical dance. Dancers praise the beauty, purity and tenacious vitality of plum blossoms through elegant movements and music.

Application of plum blossoms in traditional Chinese medicine

The medicinal value of plum blossoms in traditional Chinese medicine has a long history. It is believed to have the effects of promoting fluid and quenching thirst, soothing the liver and regulating qi, and resolving phlegm and detoxifying. Ancient medical books such as "Compendium of Materia Medica" recorded the medicinal properties of plum blossoms, believing that it is flat and sour in nature, enters the lung, liver, and stomach meridians, and can be used to relieve symptoms such as coughs, colds, and sore throats.

1. Plum blossom tea and health care
Plum blossoms are often used to make tea. Plum blossoms are paired with green tea or other Chinese herbal medicines to help soothe nerves, relieve anxiety, and even improve sleep quality. In particular, red plum petals are rich in flavonoids and antioxidants, which can help lower cholesterol, enhance immunity, and reduce inflammatory reactions.

2. Plum blossoms as medicine
Plum blossoms are often used to regulate qi and the digestive system in traditional Chinese medicine formulas. It can be paired with tangerine peel, licorice, etc. to treat symptoms such as bloating and loss of appetite caused by liver depression and qi stagnation. In addition, plum blossoms contain organic acids, which help promote gastric juice secretion and enhance digestion, thereby improving appetite and relieving constipation.

3. Plum blossom needles and acupuncture therapy
Plum blossom acupuncture is a special acupuncture method that uses plum blossom needles (i.e. seven-star needles) to tap the skin to stimulate the circulation of qi and blood in the meridians and improve microcirculation. Many studies have shown that plum blossom needles are helpful in treating hair loss, and may reduce hair loss by stimulating hair follicles, improving blood circulation, and promoting scalp health.

4. Plum blossom wine and medicinal diet
In China and Japan, plum blossoms are often used to make wine and make plum blossom liqueur, which not only has a unique flavor, but also helps promote digestion and regulate the spleen and stomach. In addition, in traditional medicinal diets, plum blossoms are often stewed with chicken, fish, etc. to improve the therapeutic effect.

 How to use plum blossom symbols in Feng Shui

Plum blossoms symbolize perseverance, auspiciousness, wealth, longevity and health in Feng Shui. It is not only a beautiful plant, but also regarded as a symbol that can attract positive energy and good luck.

1. The symbolic meaning of the five petals
The five petals of the plum blossom symbolize the five blessings: longevity, wealth, health, virtue, and a good death. At the same time, they also correspond to the five elements (gold, wood, water, fire, and earth), representing the balance of energy.

2. Plum blossoms and seasonal energy
Plum blossoms are winter flowers and one of the first plants to bloom in the cold winter. Therefore, they are regarded as hope in adversity in Feng Shui, which can bring firm will and positive energy. Many people like to hang plum blossom paintings at home to symbolize welcoming spring, dispelling the haze of winter, and bringing new opportunities and vitality.

3. The five elements of plum blossoms
Plum blossoms belong to the wood element, which helps promote personal growth, career development, and family harmony. Placing plum blossom patterns or decorations at home or in the office can enhance the energy of the wood element and bring positive changes.

Feng Shui Placement Tips for Plum Blossoms

To fully utilize the Feng Shui energy of plum blossoms, you can refer to the following placement methods:

- East Placement: The east represents spring and wood elements, which is the most suitable direction for plum blossoms and can enhance the vitality and vigor of the home.
- North Placement: The north belongs to water, which nourishes wood and helps promote career and wealth growth.
- Living room or entrance: Hanging plum blossom paintings in these places can bring positive aura and encourage unity and harmony among family members.
- Dining table decoration: Using tableware, tablecloths or tea sets with plum blossom patterns can increase the sense of abundance and beautiful atmosphere during meals.
- Bedroom Placement: For those who desire to improve their love fortune, placing plum blossom patterns in the bedroom can attract peach blossom luck, especially for those who are seeking new relationships after divorce.

**Note**: If plum blossoms are used to celebrate the Lunar New Year or festival decorations, they should be handled in a respectful manner after the flowers fade, rather than being discarded at will.

Plum blossoms as gifts

Plum blossoms have rich meanings and are auspicious gifts suitable for many occasions:

- Wishing for career success: You can give plum blossom paintings or crafts, which means steady career growth and wealth.
- Expressing tenacity: Give it to friends who have experienced challenges or tests, symbolizing perseverance and courage in facing difficulties.
- Symbolizing new life and hope: Suitable for newlyweds, graduates or entrepreneurs, symbolizing a good start to a new life.

When and where is the best time and place to enjoy plum blossoms?

Plum blossoms usually bloom in late winter and early spring (February-March). Here are several famous plum blossom viewing spots in China:

- Wuxi Plum Garden (Jiangsu) - One of the most famous plum blossom viewing spots in the country, with thousands of plum blossoms and beautiful scenery.
- Shanghai Century Park (Shanghai) - The Plum Blossom Festival is held every year, allowing citizens and tourists to appreciate the beauty of plum blossoms up close.
- Shanghai Bay National Forest Park (Shanghai) - has the largest number of plum trees in the country, with more than 47,000 trees planted.
- Suzhou Guangfu Xiangxuehai (Jiangsu) - has a long history and is famous for the travel notes of Xu Xiake, a scholar in the Ming Dynasty.
- Wuhan East Lake Plum Garden (Hubei) - one of the four major plum gardens in China, with a wide variety of varieties and elegant scenery.

More about plum blossoms

Plum blossoms are not only an important symbol of Chinese culture, but also have a profound influence in many fields such as martial arts, tattoos, and divination.

- Plum blossoms and martial arts:
- The five-petal form of plum blossoms was absorbed by Southern Shaolin martial arts and became the symbol of "Changchun Boxing" or Wing Chun.
- In Cailifo boxing, plum blossom footwork is a unique attack and defense pattern, known as the "Jingmei" footwork.

- Plum blossoms and tattoos:
- Plum blossom tattoos symbolize perseverance and many people use them as a symbol of overcoming challenges.
- As plum blossoms symbolize good luck and protection, people believe that plum blossom tattoos can ward off evil and bring positive energy.

- Plum Blossom Divination:
- There is an ancient divination method in the Book of Changes, called "Plum Blossom Divination", which predicts good and bad fortune by observing the shape and growth status of plum blossoms.
- Although this method is not as popular among Feng Shui masters as Bazi Numerology and Qimen Dunjia, it is still valued by some traditional cultural researchers.

Finally

The plum blossom is admired by the world for its fortitude and timeless beauty. As one of the flowers of the four seasons, it symbolizes the tenacity and inner nobility of winter. It goes beyond the simple decorative meaning and is deeply rooted in Chinese literature, art and Feng Shui practice.

It not only witnesses the changes of time, but also carries the blessings and hopes in Chinese culture. Since ancient times, literati and poets have used plum blossoms to express their aspirations and praise its character of not fearing the severe cold and blooming alone in the frost. Therefore, in 1964, plum blossoms were hailed as the national flower of China and were regarded as a symbol of nobility, tenacity and hope.

Whether it is used as medicine for health preservation or Feng Shui to protect the house, plum blossoms bring good luck and stability to people with their vibrant posture. In Feng Shui, it symbolizes rebirth and growth, can inject positive energy into family and career, and make people calm and rise step by step.

For thousands of years, plum blossoms have been a symbol of courage and beauty in poetry, painting, and philosophy, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, we can still bloom proudly, nurture the hope of spring in the cold winter of life, and greet the changes in every stage of life with a calm attitude.