1. The Bamboo Tree

There are few important meanings that are derived from a bamboo tree, the first are from its deep roots. Bamboo roots are deeper than the roots of most other trees and this symbolizes determination. The straightness of its stem represents honorability. The hollow interior represents humility, humbleness and modesty. And lastly, its clean stem represents purity. Another idea associated with the bamboo tree in Chinese culture is its ability to stand upright on harsh and stormy days. The picture below reads, "Stand upright on windy and rainy days."

2. The Plum Blossom

The Plum Blossom is a flower that blooms during the winter. Its ability to bloom under the harsh conditions of wind and snow represent its strength and endurance.

3. Chrysanthemum

On the other hand, the Chrysanthemum blooms towards the end of autumn, when other flowers have started to fade. In Chinese culture, the ability of the flower to survive as winter starts to come shows its ability to maintain its dignity against the harsh conditions of winter. It can also be seen as not giving into temptation. Additionally, the chrysanthemum has a medical importance and this is symbolic of nobility.

4. The Orchid

As the flower of spring, the orchid is seen as representing friendship. The virtue of friendship is, in part, inspired by the idea in Confucianism of maintaining harmonious relationships.

5. The Lotus

This flower is virtuous because of the way it grows out of muddy swamps yet, has remarkable beauty. At night, the flower closes and it reopens in the morning, this represents its pureness.

6. The Willow Tree

The willow tree represents sadness. Some people will carry branches of a weeping willow with them on the day of a sad or mournful event, such as a funeral. The willow branch symbolizes the healing of the heart in hard times.

7. Bats

Because of the similarity in the pronunciation of good fortune and bat in Chinese, bats have become symbolic of good luck and good fortune. To me, this was interesting to learn because of the negative connotation bats have in American culture and their association with darkness and Halloween. In China, they are seen as very positive creatures bearing good fortune and bringing luck down from heaven.

8. The Dragon

The Dragon symbolizes strength and power in Chinese culture. It is a symbol of good fortune and benevolent power.

It was very inspiring to learn about all the plants, flowers and animals that hold meaning in Chinese Culture. The metaphorical virtues ascribed to plants, flowers, and animals show a deep appreciation for nature.