Winter Peonies

In Japan, there is a one-of-a-kind Peony variety called Kan-botan (寒牡丹) or Fuyu-botan (冬牡丹) meaning “Winter Peonies.”

These interesting flowers grow in the ice and cold winter as opposed to the usual Spring floral season. Prized for their delicate beauty and rarity, these blooms are hard to cultivate but remains to be sought after for the symbol that they represent. These blooms thrive even in the harshest of climates and it is often seen to represent a lady with perseverance and admirable character.

I was attracted to Winter Peonies not just because of the fact that its very rare and never seen outside of Japan, but because of the symbol that it represents. When I gaze upon these beautiful flowers, I'm always reminded of my mom. It wasn't easy for her to raise us all on her own for many years throughout my childhood. I admit I didn't make it easy for her with my rebelliousness either. Looking back, she must have felt very lonely and unappreciated many times. I imagine her to be like this delicate Winter Peony, struggling to thrive in a harsh environment and yet she was able to keep her beautiful soul and noble heart intact, always caring and always full of love.

What about you? Do you have someone like a Winter Peony in your life? If you do, honor her today and send her a one-of-a-kind Preserved Winter Peony that blooms all year round.