It is said that chrysanthemum was crossbred between two wild flowers of
this kind in China
1,500 years ago and as a result no wild chrysanthemum exists.
Generally chrysanthemums bloom in fall and are a representative of fall
flowers in Japan,
meanwhile a cherry blossom a representative of spring ones.
Now we have about 350 kinds of chrysanthemums. Planting chrysanthemums
to appreciate
their beauty started in the Imperial court in Heisan period from 9th to
12th century.
Later, GOTOBA Joko, retired emperor designated the design of chrysanthemum
with 16 petals
as Imperial crest 13th century. It got the most popular among the commoners
to
appreciate their beauty and many new chrysanthemums ware crossbred in 17
century.
Nowadays many enthusiasts plant chrysanthemums and enjoy viewing their
beauty and
elegant forms. Many chrysanthemum festivals and exhibitions are held in
October and
November in many places and a lot of people enjoy viewing their beauty
and elegant forms.
Following photos were taken in November at Meiji shrine, Tokyo.
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