#anime flower symbolism

[frostfires-blog]

Sousou no Frieren Hanakotoba Analysis

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-> 1) Blue-Moon Weed [蒼月草│Sō gessō]

The Blue-Moon Weed (Sō gesso │ 蒼月草) is a blue, fictitious flower in the universe of Sousou no Frieren endemic to Himmel's hometown. The flower can be described as having blue anthers, yellow filaments as well as five petals that range from deeper blue at the tips to lighter blue in the centre. Although the Blue-Moon Weed is fictional, it appears to be inspired by real-life plants—namely Baby Blue Eyes and the Asiatic Daylily.

During episode 2, Frieren cleans a statue of Himmel the hero, afterwards a local herbalist proposes planting some flowers around the statue to brighten the area. This causes Frieren to recall how Himmel once told her his favourite flowers were Blue-Moon Weeds. This motivates her to search for these flowers over the next six months, despite these plants not being sighted for decades. After much frustration on Fern's part, the two eventually discover a small meadow of Blue-Moon Weed flowers atop an abandoned watchtower. This allows Frieren to use her spell to decorate the area around the statue with these flowers.  During this incident, we learn that Frieren’s penchant for collecting odd spells partly stems from Himmel expressing his appreciation for them—particularly the flower bed-making spell which is currently her favourite. Although Frieren couldn’t grant Himmel’s desire to show her Blue-Moon Weed flowers before his death, she was still somewhat able to fulfil this desire by finding the flowers and planting them around his statue as a tribute. Her willingness to devote half a year towards finding the flower showcases her remarkable dedication and nuanced sentimentality.

-> 1,2) Baby Blue Eyes (Nemophila sp.)

The most apparent inspiration for the Blue-Moon Weed is likely Baby Blue Eyes (Nemophila sp.). Although the leaves of the Blue-Moon Weed have an elongated shape, the shape and method of attachment differ from those of Nemophila—the shape and colour of the flowers are very similar to Nemophila. Baby Blue Eyes flowers are known as Rurikarakusa (ルリカラクサ) in Japan. In hanakotoba, Nemophila symbolises success everywhere, daintiness and forgiveness. In Western floriography, they represent victory, tenderness, sensitivity, harmony and trust. These symbolic connotations are closely linked with Himmel’s personality and accomplishments. Nemophila also represent the transient nature of beauty and life, encouraging us to treasure every moment and appreciate simplicity—which is a core theme in the series and is a lesson that Frieren is slowly learning throughout her journey.

The scientific name for Baby Blue Eyes, Nemophila, is derived from Greek and roughly translates to "loves small woodlands". This is derived from Nemophila's tendency to grow around the margins of woodlands. In a way, this is reminiscent of Himmel and Frieren's first encounter in the forest when the former became lost. After pointing him in the right direction, Frieren casts the flower bed-making spell leaving a lasting impact on Himmel. Specifically, it is hinted that Himmel sought Frieren out to be the party's magician since that event was the first time he perceived magic as being beautiful.

-> 1,2) Asiatic Dayflower (Commelina communis)

Another possible inspiration for the Blue-Moon Weed is the Asiatic Dayflower (Commelina communis). In Japan, this plant is known as tsuyukusa (露草) meaning "dew grass“. However, in ancient times it was called tsukikusa (月草) meaning “moon grass” which is similar to the name of Blue-Moon Weed. Although the two plants both possess blue-coloured flowers and similar leaf shapes; how the leaves attach to the stem differs, as does the shape of the flowers. In hanakotoba, the Asiatic Dayflower symbolises nostalgic relationships, secret love, transience and changes of heart in love. In Western floriography, they symbolise harmony, growth, prosperity and abundance. These symbolic associations—particularly those of nostalgic relationships, growth and changes of the heart in love—resonate heavily with Frieren’s relationship with Himmel. While the flower’s symbolism of secret love and transience resonates with Himmel’s feelings towards Frieren.

-> 2) Mirrored Lotus [鏡蓮華│Kagami renge]

The Mirror Lotus (Kagami renge │鏡蓮華) is a fictitious flower in the universe of Sousou no Frieren. However, its name suggests it is based on a real lotus (Nelumbo nucifera). Furthermore, the shape of the flower on Fern's bracelet is quite similar to that of a real lotus, which lends credence to this notion. In episode 14, it is noted that the silver bracelet Stark bought Fern for her birthday features a Mirror Lotus design. As Frieren studies the bracelet, she realises it has the same design as a ring she received from Himmel in the past. Sein then reveals that the Mirror Lotus symbolises eternal love.

Although Fern, Stark, and Frieren were unaware of the flower's symbolism, Himmel's interest in flowers suggests he recognised the meaning behind the ring he bought for Frieren—despite her assumption otherwise. As Frieren recalls receiving the ring, we see that after she selected it randomly Himmel was struck into silence and stared at it with a pensive expression. He then knelt before Frieren and placed it on the fourth finger of her left hand. This event, resembling a marriage proposal, reinforces the impression that he understood the significance of the flower. Furthermore, Himmel never married anyone else, alluding to the fact that Himmel must have pledged his eternal affection to Frieren through this ring. The significance of Himmel gifting Frieren a ring that symbolises "eternal love," as well as the multiple sculptures he had constructed around the world serve as a reminder of his existence. They serve as proof that his love for her transcends time and continues to accompany her on her journey.

Although Fern’s bracelet Fern and Frieren’s ring both have a mirrored lotus motif, the designs of the flowers differ in shape. The mirror lotus flower on Frieren’s ring is in bud state while the flower Fern's bracelet is in full bloom. This distinction references the difference between the two pairs’ relationships. While it is inferred that Himmel knew about the flower’s meaning, Frieren wasn't aware and only discovered it after his death. Himmel's romantic feelings for Frieren are still unknown to her, corresponding to the flower's bud shape on the ring, as their relationship remains frozen, unable to fully blossom due to the distance between them caused by their differing lifespans and Frieren's unintentional obliviousness. However, Fern and Stark discover the flower's significance together almost immediately after buying the bracelet. Although Fern, like Stark, was unaware of the mirror lotus' symbolism when she accepted the bracelet, she continued to wear it after learning about it and was enraged by Stark's proposal that she replace it with another design. If Fern hadn't had any romantic feelings for Stark, she would have been reluctant to wear the bracelet after this revelation. This, in conjunction with the flower's full bloom design on her bracelet, suggests that the pair will become mutually conscious of each other's romantic feelings and eventually end up together.

-> 2,1) Sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera)

In Japan, lotuses are called ren (蓮) or hasu (はす) and symbolise eloquence, sacredness, detached love as well as a pure heart in hanakotoba. Its symbolism of a pure heart is derived from how the lotus blooms into a noble and pure flower despite rising from muddy water. This symbolic connotation resonates with Himmel’s character, particularly his remarkable accomplishments despite his humble background. Lotuses are also globally associated with purity, rebirth, transformation and enlightenment. The lotus’s symbolic representation of enlightenment and transformation resonates with Frieren’s journey to learn and understand humans better to alleviate her regret of not getting to know Himmel better. In Asia, two lotus flowers blossoming from a single stem represent a desire for harmony and a shared heart. While in Western floriography, lotuses represent grace and estranged love. This sharp contrast between the lotus’ romantic symbolism in Asia and the West correlates with the difference in dynamic between the series’ main two pairings and their narrative conclusions. Additionally, despite Himmel’s feelings remaining unknown to Frieren, due to her leaving after their 10-year journey (i.e. estranged love), she shows a desire to understand him (i.e. a desire for a shared heart) after his death.

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╰➤ Other anime & donghua hanakotoba posts

[A/N: It'll probably be a while until I make another one of these posts—but if anyone has any requests feel free to send them. Also, lmk what other kinds of posts I should do in the meantime? Lastly, if you liked this post, check out my other hanakotoba analysis posts✿]

[gothpossums]

hostage

[petrichormoon]

"I only hope it felt like falling asleep."

for @barrenclan because asphodelpaw has me fucked. up. may she have sweet dreams of better places

[naonap]

sometimes i remember the "you are far too right" note and cry

also,

"Even at nineteen,

I had come to realize

that violets fade,

spring waters soon run dry,

this life too is transient"

– River of Stars, Yosano Akiko

[kristiliqua]

PALESTINE WILL BE FREE 🍉🌟

[blessingmyheart]

exhaustion

‎♪ㅤㅤ ‎❤︎︎ຶ⵿ ‎࣪ㅤ݁ ⠳⣄⣀⣠⠞✿͙⢷

[artthatremindsmeofhannibalnbc]

Ellen Jewett, petal deer, 2013 Sculpture

[marejadilla]

Martin Wittfooth, "Bloom", oil on canvas, 2015. b. 1981 Toronto, Ontario.

“Wittfooth’s paintings, drawings, installations and sculptural works use allegory and symbolism to explore themes of the intersection and clash of industry and nature, and the human influence on the environment.”  

[alithographica]

so many people have brilliant things to say about little details in shows, the meaning behind an artistic decision, the symbolism of flowers, hard-to-translate language concepts, things that really add to your understanding of a work

I can't do any of that

all I can offer you is that this skeleton doesn't have enough ribs

but they did get the handedness of their DNA correct (sooo much art has it twisting the wrong direction)

this means nothing, enjoy ❤️

[maomaojinshi]

The plum blossom, also known as the meihua is a symbol of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Since they are considered the first flower of the year they also represent purity and hope.

#薬屋のひとりごと #TheApothecaryDiaries

[frostfires-blog]

Kusuriya no Hitorigoto Part 1B: OP1 Hana Ni Natte

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The last group of flowers featured in the first opening are theorised to represent different key characters featured in the first half of season 1. Namely the three princesses of Verdigris house, the 4 upper rank consorts as well as our protagonist Maomao.

-> 1.9) Plum Blossom

The 9th flower depicted in the first opening is the plum blossom (Prunus mume). In the anime, plum blossoms are featured in episode 12—as a part of the vase arrangement said to represent the three princesses and Maomao—and episode 21.   Plum blossoms, known as ume (梅) in Japan, symbolise integrity, faithfulness, loyalty, elegance, and patience in hanakotoba. The plum blossom's stems, leaves, and seeds contain cyanide and are toxic to humans, dogs, cats and horses—especially when wilting. In Western floriography, plum blossoms represent independence, hope, resilience, perseverance and courage. They are also associated with loyalty, longevity, honouring promises, and beauty's capacity to overcome adversity. This plethora of hopeful symbolism stems from the tree's hardiness and ability to bloom even in late winter, defying the vagaries of winter weather.

-> 1.10) Chrysanthemum

The 10th set of flowers depicted in the first opening are pink chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum × morifolium). Pink chrysanthemums appear in episode 12—as part of a vase arrangement representing the three princesses and Maomao. Chrysanthemums contain toxic substances such as pyrethrins and pyrethroids, which may harm cats if ingested. In Japan, chrysanthemums are called kiku (菊) and symbolise truth, sincerity, nobility, loftiness and true strength in hanakotoba. Pink chrysanthemums in particular symbolise sweet drams, purity and enduring love.  A chrysanthemum is featured on the coat of arms of the Japanese royal family thus making the flower a symbol of nobility. In Western floriography, chrysanthemums represent integrity, sincerity, humility, happiness, and friendship. Pink chrysanthemums specifically represent the desire for happiness.

-> 1.11) Magnolia

The 11th set of flowers depicted in the first opening are white magnolias (Magnolia sp.) which are also featured in episode 12 as a part of the vase arrangement said to represent the three princesses and Maomao. While not regarded as hazardous the magnolia's flowers, leaves, twigs, and bark contain a variety of active compounds that can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, liver damage, and nervous system depression in cats. In Japan, magnolias are called Mokuren (木蓮) and represent persistence, sustainability, sublimeness and a “love for nature” in hanakotoba. In Western floriography, magnolias represent dignity, honour, nobility, perseverance and pride.

-> 1.12) Cattleya

The 12th flower depicted in the first opening is the Cattleya (Cattleya sp.). This flower is also featured in episodes 5 and 11 of the anime and is canonically associated with the Pure Consort, Ah-Duo. In Japan, these flowers are called katoreya (カトレア). In hanakotoba, they represent seduction, mature adult charm and a graceful lady. The latter is likely derived from the Cattleya’s nickname “the queen of orchids”. Cattleyas in Western floriography represent mature charm, vitality, fertility, and creativity, as well as elegance, luxury, and refinement. They also symbolise femininity, expressing beauty, grace, love, romance, passion, and strength.

-> 1.13) Lily of the Valley

The 13th flower depicted is the lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis). This flower is also featured in episode 5 of the anime and is canonically associated with the Virtuous  Consort, Lishu. Lily of Valley plants are highly toxic, containing 38 cardiac glycosides. In Japan, these flowers are called suzuran (鈴蘭)—a name derived from the bell-like shape of its flowers and its orchid-like scent. In hanakotoba, they symbolise sweetness, purity, humility and “happiness will come again”. In Western floriography, the lily of the valley represents sweetness, purity, humility, kindness, loveliness, and the "return of happiness." The flower's symbolism of the return of happiness originates from its usage as a symbol of the return of spring in northern European countries—thus representing the end of the harsh winter. 

-> 1.3+1.14) Balloon Flowers

 Both the 3rd and 14th flowers depicted in the first opening are Balloon flowers (Platycodon grandiflorus), often known as Chinese Bellflowers. This flower was also featured in episodes 1, 4 and 5 of the anime and is canonically associated with the Wise Consort, Lihua. These plants can be harmful to cats, resulting in symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, and lethargy. In Japan, balloon flowers are called kikyo (桔梗) and symbolise eternal love, sincerity, obedience, elegance and neatness in hanakotoba. In Western floriography, balloon flowers represent endless love, honesty, obedience and the desire for a friend's return.

-> 1.15) Peony

The 15th flower depicted in the opening is a pink peony (Paeonia sp.). Peonies were also featured in episodes 1 and 5 of the anime and are canonically associated with the Precious Consort, Gyokuyou. Peonies contain a toxin known as paeonol, which can be harmful to cats, causing gastrointestinal problems, diarrhoea, vomiting and depression. In Japan, peonies are called botan (牡丹). They represent bravery, wealth, prosperity, shyness and stateliness in hanakotoba. Its association with stateliness, wealth and prosperity stems from its abundance of lush petals. In Western floriography, peonies represent bashfulness and compassion. Pink peonies particularly are associated with love, femininity and compassion.

-> 1.16) Wood Sorrel

The final flower depicted in the first opening is called Wood sorrel (Oxalis sp.).  This flower appears in episodes 12, 23 and 24, and is canonically associated with our protagonist, Maomao. Although it is widely assumed that wood sorrel is toxic to humans, it is edible and has been used as a therapeutic herb for generations, and it is still employed in herbal therapy today, albeit less well-known and used than other plants. However, every component of the plant is toxic to animals if consumed due to it containing oxalic acid. In Japan, wood sorrel is known as katabami (片喰, カタバミ) and symbolises a radiant or shining heart in hanakotoba. This symbolism is not only derived from its displays of lemon-yellow blossoms but also from the fact that its leaves were used to polish Buddhist utensils and copper mirrors. Wood sorrel is frequently associated with the onset of spring and the regeneration of life. It also represents good luck, fortune, and fortitude. As a result of its distinctive leaf shape, wood sorrel has been given the moniker “Cat's paws”. In Western floriography, wood sorrel symbolises joy, love, hope, faith, luck and maternal tenderness. Wood sorrel holds a wide range of symbolic meanings, including luck, healing, protection, love, and connectedness to the natural world. In some cultures, Wood Sorrel is revered as a symbol of good fortune, bringing blessings as well as protection from evil spirits.

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Part 1A│ Part 1B │Part 2

╰➤ Other anime & donghua hanakotoba posts

[A/N: Please check out part 1A and part 2 as well! Since I've only watched the anime but haven't read the manga or light novels and thus cannot comment on how everything ties into the overarching storyline or character development—I didn't go into too much detail here... Also, since there are so many flowers featured, this post would grow way too long if I did lmao. 

If anyone has any ideas on what anime/anime theme song I should cover next in this series please lmk✿ Also, if you liked this post, check out my other hanakotoba analysis posts...]

[rigatoniiiiiiii]

🌼 + whichever character you'd like

Marigold (Tagetes)

Meaning: pain, grief, despair, mourning, healing, affection

[flouresita]

you you you , my only one 𔘓

[dagmartoons]

He loves me...

He loves me not...

He loves me...

...He loves me not.

[duditys]

⠈⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠈⠂⠄⠄⠂

Nature symbols ! ::

˗ˏˋ 𓅰 ˎˊ˗ 𓆉 𖡼𖤣𖥧𖡼𓋼𖤣𖥧𓋼𓍊

𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟 𓇼

𑁍 ❀ ✿ 𐀔 𓃟 𓆣

𓃦 𓃠 𓆑 𓆈 𓃚

𓅮 𓆗 𓃮 𓇢𓆸 ⸙ 𓆡

⠈⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠈⠂⠄⠄⠂

[l0z14]

Joel Miller & Arthur Morgan & Rachel Amber

"you don’t get to live a bad life and have good things happen to you"

ingydar-adrianne lenker/ not a lot, just forever-adrianne lenker/ lotus corniculatus/ as consciousness is harnessed to flesh-susan sontag/ narcissus/ white is for witching-helen oyeyemi/ lilium/ the alchemist- paulo coelho/ animal symbolism/ forwards beckon rebound-adrianne lenker