Chrysanthemum

These daisy-like flowers are bright, beautiful and bursting with enthusiasm. Chrysanthemums make a great bouquet for an occasion filled with promise or to celebrate a milestone in someone’s life. A new job, a new baby or just to brighten someone’s day; chrysanthemums are a perfect choice.

There are around thirty different species of chrysanthemum, which come in a variety of shapes and colours. The earliest records of the chrysanthemum are found in China, with the flower later spreading to Japan in the 9th century and parts of northern Europe in around the 17th century.

In Japan the chrysanthemum is a symbol of the sun. When drinking wine, a single petal is placed in the bottom of the glass, to provide the drinker with happiness and a long life. Yearly, the Chrysanthemum is celebrated in the ‘Festival of Happiness.’

For thousands of years chrysanthemums have been used in Chinese herbal medicine, in particular the yellow and most fragrant varieties of the flower. It has been claimed that the flowers have many medical uses, they can help with eye problems, cure the flu and even reduce stress.

The meaning of the chrysanthemum includes fidelity and long life along with joy and optimism. Second only to roses, the Chrysanthemum is a popular choice for a bouquet. When looking at these bright and friendly blooms it is hard not to smile.