The story appears on

Page B4

January 1, 2011

GET this page in PDF

Free for subscribers

View shopping cart

Related News

Home » District » Minhang

Humble plum blossoms brighten the season

WINTER doesn't have to be the dull time of year. A simple flower can brighten a gray day and warm the spirit.

Admiring plum flower in full bloom was a traditional winter pastime for Chinese poets and painters, who drew inspiration from the winter blooms that bravely flowered during cold days.

The plum flower symbolizes nobility and an unyielding, resilient spirit.

Plum blossoms usually bloom in January or February, depending on the temperature. They usually flourish best when the mercury is between six to eight degrees Celsius and can withstand lows down to 10 degrees.

Xinzhuang Park is among the best destinations in Shanghai to appreciate the flower. It has about 30 varieties of precious plum flowers, about 1,000 plum trees and hundreds of bonsais.

When the plum tree unfolds its buds, the park is transformed into a breathtaking sea of red, white and pink flowers. The dazzling show, which usually lasts about one month, attracts horde of shutterbugs and flower lovers every year.

Xinzhuang Park was originally called Xinzhuang Plum Park. It was once the private garden of a local dignitary surnamed Yang, who completed the landscaping in 1920. Plum flower and lotus are the major attractions of the park, which is open to the public free of charge.

Pines, bamboo and plum blossoms are often called the "three friends of the cold."

The history of growing plum flower dates back to the Shang Dynasty (1600 BC-1046 BC).

The plum tree is known for its longevity. Some survive for up to 1,000 years and still blossom.

It may be a little bit yet early to appreciate the flower show at the park, but the feast for the eyes is just around the corner.

The park is located at 421 Xinbang Road, near Xinxi Road. Buses 747, 953, 91 and Minhang No. 15 and 20 lines have stops nearby.




 

Copyright © 1999- Shanghai Daily. All rights reserved.Preferably viewed with Internet Explorer 8 or newer browsers.

沪公网安备 31010602000204号

Email this to your friend