Plum

The plum, peony, lotus, and chrysanthemum are symbolic of the four seasons. The plum is the symbol of winter; the fruit is equally prized for its blossoms and fruits. The plum blossom has been celebrated in numberless verses. The tree is fertile until it reaches an unusually long life-span.

The white plum-blossoms are strikingly beautiful on blue and white china-ware. The plum blossom has been selected by the Central Political Council as the “National Flower.”  Pine, prunus and bamboo are known as the "three friends" because they stay green in the winter. Often shown together, all three symbolize longevity and vitality.