Latin name: Acorus gramineus
Aliases: Sida, Serrata, Iris, Iris
Family: Araceae
Genus: Acorus
Origin: Widely distributed across both northern and southern China.
Morphological Characteristics:
A perennial herb with a distinct aromatic scent. It features a thick, flat rhizome that can be 0.5 to 2 cm in diameter, accompanied by numerous fibrous roots. The leaves are sword-shaped and linear, ranging from 50 to 120 cm in length, with a pointed tip and a width of 1 to 3 cm in the middle. The base of the leaf sheath is constricted at the stem. The midrib is prominent, with two sides bulging and three to five parallel veins on each side. From June to September, flower stems emerge, forming flat triangular structures up to 20 to 50 cm long. The spathe is 20 to 40 cm long, and the spadix is erect or slender, cylindrical, and yellowish green. The berries are red and oblong, containing one to four seeds.
Growth Habits:
Optimal growth occurs between 20 to 25°C, and growth ceases below 10°C. The above-ground parts die back in winter, while the underground rhizomes survive. It typically grows in shallow water along pond, river, and lake banks.
Garden Use:
Known for its sword-like leaves, it is called "Pujian" and often grows near water, hence its nickname "Water Sword." The plant has a pleasant aroma, and ancient people believed it had detoxifying properties and could help improve eye health. This made it a popular choice for traditional remedies. Its neat, elegant foliage makes it ideal for placement in shallow water along water features.
Florid: Admiring the mysterious person
Species: Eucalyptus
Country of Origin: Japan
Color: Purple
Flowering Period: Early Summer
This flower has been a favorite in Japanese poetry for centuries. It appears in many haiku and was famously referenced in works like "Heritage Grass" by Fujiwara. This shows how deeply the Japanese have appreciated this flower for generations.
When receiving an anonymous letter from a mysterious admirer, don't rush to throw it away. Many people treasure such letters throughout their lives.
★Key:
Calamus is a symbol of the Dragon Boat Festival. Its straight blades evoke a cool summer feel. When gifting, choose vibrant colors—three or four bright hues tied into a bouquet would make a meaningful gift.
The Origin of the Customs
As the old saying goes, “First cake, second cake, third snail, fourth dish, fifth-day dragon boat.†Every year, during the fifth lunar month, the Dragon Boat Festival is celebrated as a traditional Chinese holiday, also known as the “Five Day.†On the first day of the festival, families prepare gifts and decorations. These customs, filled with positive values and good traditions, continue to be widely practiced today.
During the Dragon Boat Festival, some families hang calamus at their doors. But why?
Legend tells of a poor woman named Qing Ying, who was both eloquent and poetic. One year, during a dry season, there was no rain for months, and the fields were barren. On the fourth day of May, Qing Ying, who was celebrating her birthday and the Dragon Boat Festival, felt sad due to her family's poverty. She decided to pick some calamus from her husband’s garden and hang it on the gate. She washed it and placed it by the door, feeling it brought life and festivity to the house. She then wrote a poem on red paper and stuck it near the gate.
Her husband returned home later that evening and saw the poem. He felt ashamed and went to sell a cow to earn money to please his wife. However, he was caught by the cow’s owner and taken to court. The county official asked him why he stole the cow, and the husband explained his situation. The official was moved and ordered Qing Ying to write another poem. Impressed by her talent, he rewarded her with silver and sent her home.
This story spread, and more and more people began hanging calamus on their doors during the Dragon Boat Festival. Over time, this became a cherished tradition.
The custom of hanging calamus on the Dragon Boat Festival continues to this day, symbolizing protection, good fortune, and the enduring spirit of family and tradition.
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