Kiku – Chrysanthemum – Japan Symbol

The Chrysanthemum, or Kiku in Japanese, is a symbol that represents longevity and rejuvenation. When first introduced to Japan during the Nara period (710 – 793 AC), the Japanese Royal Family was fascinated with the Chrysanthemum. Eventually, during the passing of the years, the Chrysanthemum become the Imperial Family Emblem.

Daisy-like with a typically yellow center and a decorative pompon

chrysanthemums symbolize optimism and joy.

They're the November birth flower, the 13th wedding anniversary flower and the official flower of the city of Chicago. In Japan, there's even a "Festival of Happiness" to celebrate this flower each year.

Chrysanthemum (Mums) Flower Meaning & Symbolism | Teleflora

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Meaning and Symbolism of Chrysanthem ums

With a history that dates back to 15th century B.C., chrysanthemum mythology is filled with a multitude of stories and symbolism.

Named from the Greek prefix "chrys-" meaning golden (its original color) and "-anthemion," meaning flower, years of artful cultivation have produced a full range of colors, from white to purple to red.

Daisy-like with a typically yellow center and a decorative pompon, chrysanthemums symbolize optimism and joy.

They're the November birth flower, the 13th wedding anniversary flower and the official flower of the city of Chicago.

In Japan, there's even a "Festival of Happiness" to celebrate this flower each year.

A symbol of the sun, the Japanese consider the orderly unfolding of the chrysanthemum's petals to represent perfection, and Confucius once suggested they be used as an object of meditation.

It's said that a single petal of this celebrated flower placed at the bottom of a wine glass will encourage a long and healthy life.

View more on our Flower Type Meaning Page

Link: https://www.teleflora.com/meaning-of-flowers/chrysanthemum

The Chrysanthemum, or Kiku in Japanese, is a symbol that represents longevity and rejuvenation. ... The Chrysanthemum is used in many cases in Japan culture – There are more than 150 seals or mon (菊花紋章) featuring this wonderful flower.

Chrysanthemum crest on the gate of Yasukuni Shrine

The Chrysanthemum is used in many cases in Japan culture

–there are more than 150 seals or mon (菊花紋章)

featuring this wonderful flower.

The Imperial Seal of Japan is the most famous of them.

The Imperial Seal of Japan feature 16 petals on the front and 16 petals on the back (only the tip of the petals can be seen on the back) – There are other Chrysanthemum seals with different number of petals, usually related to other Imperial Family members or Shinto Shrines.

Nowadays, the Japanese Diet (government) use the 16 petals seal for official documents (passports, orders, etc)