The Meanings and Symbols of Peony Flowers
In Chinese traditional culture, peony flowers are known as the "Prime Minister of Flowers" and their cultural connotations are far deeper than those of ordinary ornamental plants. From the "Book of Songs" recording "The gentleman and the lady, they jest with each other, presenting her with peonies," to the feelings of parting and missing in the writings of literati during the Tang and Song dynasties, this perennial flower carries千年 cultural codes. This article will delve into the special meanings of peony flowers in the aspects of emotional expression and auspicious symbols.
One, The Cultural Connotations of Peony Flowers Interpretation
Parting with Emotion: The Image of Missing in Peony Flowers
The objective conditions of inconvenient transportation in ancient times created the special status of peony as the "parting grass." As early as the Qin and Han dynasties, there was a custom of "breaking willows and presenting peonies." Literati and elegant scholars exchanged peony roots when bidding farewell at Baidu Bridge, taking advantage of the easy survival characteristic of their fleshy roots to convey the profound meaning of "though miles apart, our hearts are connected." Modern horticultural research has found that peony tubers can still survive independently after being separated, which perfectly fits the emotional metaphor of "separated but not divided."
Sincere Heart: The Emotional Expression of Peony
The layered and compact petals of peony flowers, which bloom from the inside out, have been extended as a symbol of "sincere emotions layered and progressive." The "Complete Anthology of Fragrant Plants" from the Song Dynasty records that young men and women in Bianjing often exchanged peonies when getting engaged, taking the homophonic meaning of "red peony" to imply sincerity. In the modern flower language system, pink peonies represent implicit confessions, red peonies symbolize passionate love, and white peonies imply pure初心.
Two, The Auspicious Symbols of Peony Flowers
Aesthetic of Wealth and Luck in Courtyard
Peony flowers are full and can reach a diameter of 20 centimeters, known as the "Two Wonders in Flowers" together with peonies. Feng Shui believes that planting peonies on the east side of the courtyard can bring wealth and blessings, and their deep-rooted characteristic symbolizes the stability of the family business. Placing fresh-cut peonies during important festivals not only conforms to the traditional aesthetic of "blooming wealth," but also their 5-7 days of vase life implies the auspicious meaning of "long-lasting fortune."
Double Value of Medicine and Food
In addition to ornamental value, the roots of peonies have been used as Chinese medicinal materials for more than 2000 years. The "Divine Husbandry Classic" lists red peony and white peony as top-grade, and modern pharmacology has confirmed that the peony glycoside components do have analgesic and antispasmodic effects. The traditional扬州 pastry "Peony Shortcake" even incorporates the petals into the food, achieving a triple integration of ornamental, medicinal, and edible values.
From the tears of parting people on ancient post roads to the bouquets in modern weddings, peony flowers have always been an important carrier of emotional transmission. Mastering the flower language codes can enhance the cultural depth of courtyard landscapes and make the act of giving flowers more ritualistic. It is recommended to choose a sunny and well-drained environment for home care, and applying phosphorus and potassium fertilizers in spring and autumn can promote bud differentiation, allowing this cultural flower to bloom continuously.