The chrysanthemum is the floral emblem of the imperial family of Japan. Known to have been cultivated in China as far back as the 1400s BC, it first made its way to Japan sometime in the 900s, and was adopted as the emperor’s official seal. Crown Prince Akihito assumed the Chrysanthemum Throne, the world’s oldest monarchy, after the death of his father, Hirohito, on January 7, 1989. His position as the 125th Japanese monarch was formally accepted on this date in 1990.
These mums are now showing on our patio. I just LOVE springtime!
