Why the Peony is a Strong Contender for China's National Flower | Significance & Appeal
The national flower of a country represents its cultural identity. As a cultural symbol, it embodies the nation's spirit and the character of its people, reflecting their love for their homeland and deep national sentiment. It symbolizes national unity and enhances cohesion. A country's national flower should be deeply connected to its culture, history, and heritage. Through the national flower, one can glimpse the cultural depth and historical richness of a nation. The national flower plays a significant role in elevating the country's global image and maintaining its national quality.
Over a hundred countries worldwide have their own national flowers, each carrying unique and profound meanings. Some countries have multiple national flowers, and some flowers are shared by several nations.
In China, with the vision of economic prosperity and the well-being of its people, some representatives proposed to designate a national flower. The Ministry of Agriculture, through the China Flower Association, conducted a selection process and presented two candidate proposals: one flower, the peony, or four flowers—peony, lotus, chrysanthemum, and plum blossom. The final decision is still pending approval by the National People's Congress.
On July 15, 2019, the China Flower Association launched a public vote on its website and WeChat official account titled "Vote: My Choice for the National Flower." The public showed great enthusiasm and participation, with a total of 362,264 votes cast by July 22, 2019. The peony emerged as the clear favorite, securing 79.71% of the votes.
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The peony is considered the national flower not because of its widespread cultivation, but because of its luxurious and elegant appearance, symbolizing the nation's aspirations for beauty and prosperity. It represents the hope that the country will flourish like the peony, thriving and prospering.
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The peony has a history that parallels the development of the Chinese nation. As the nation prospers, so does the peony. The wisdom and talents of Chinese ancestors throughout history have continuously influenced the evolution of the peony. With its large, vibrant flowers and lush foliage, the peony best embodies the grandeur of a great nation, symbolizing wealth, good fortune, and the prosperity and harmony of the country.
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The peony, known for its royal elegance and splendor, has been celebrated as the "king of flowers" since the Tang and Song dynasties. It was designated as the national flower during the Tang and Qing dynasties, leaving a profound impact on Chinese culture. The peony has inspired a rich and diverse cultural and artistic heritage, unmatched by any other flower.
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The peony is a world-renowned flower native to China, with a cultivation history spanning over 1,500 years. All eight wild species are found in China, and there are over 1,000 cultivated varieties, featuring ten flower types and nine color systems. The peony is widely distributed and highly valued for its ornamental and economic significance. Its roots are used in traditional medicine, and its pollen and seeds are utilized in beauty and health products.
Why the Peony is China's National Flower
The national flower of a country represents its cultural identity. As a cultural symbol, it embodies the nation's spirit and the character of its people, reflecting their love for their homeland and deep national sentiment. It symbolizes national unity and enhances cohesion. A country's national flower should be deeply connected to its culture, history, and heritage. Through the national flower, one can glimpse the cultural depth and historical richness of a nation. The national flower plays a significant role in elevating the country's global image and maintaining its national quality.
Over a hundred countries worldwide have their own national flowers, each carrying unique and profound meanings. Some countries have multiple national flowers, and some flowers are shared by several nations.
In China, with the vision of economic prosperity and the well-being of its people, some representatives proposed to designate a national flower. The Ministry of Agriculture, through the China Flower Association, conducted a selection process and presented two candidate proposals: one flower, the peony, or four flowers—peony, lotus, chrysanthemum, and plum blossom. The final decision is still pending approval by the National People's Congress.
On July 15, 2019, the China Flower Association launched a public vote on its website and WeChat official account titled "Vote: My Choice for the National Flower." The public showed great enthusiasm and participation, with a total of 362,264 votes cast by July 22, 2019. The peony emerged as the clear favorite, securing 79.71% of the votes.
-
The peony is considered the national flower not because of its widespread cultivation, but because of its luxurious and elegant appearance, symbolizing the nation's aspirations for beauty and prosperity. It represents the hope that the country will flourish like the peony, thriving and prospering.
-
The peony has a history that parallels the development of the Chinese nation. As the nation prospers, so does the peony. The wisdom and talents of Chinese ancestors throughout history have continuously influenced the evolution of the peony. With its large, vibrant flowers and lush foliage, the peony best embodies the grandeur of a great nation, symbolizing wealth, good fortune, and the prosperity and harmony of the country.
-
The peony, known for its royal elegance and splendor, has been celebrated as the "king of flowers" since the Tang and Song dynasties. It was designated as the national flower during the Tang and Qing dynasties, leaving a profound impact on Chinese culture. The peony has inspired a rich and diverse cultural and artistic heritage, unmatched by any other flower.
-
The peony is a world-renowned flower native to China, with a cultivation history spanning over 1,500 years. All eight wild species are found in China, and there are over 1,000 cultivated varieties, featuring ten flower types and nine color systems. The peony is widely distributed and highly valued for its ornamental and economic significance. Its roots are used in traditional medicine, and its pollen and seeds are utilized in beauty and health products.
