September is here, and the slightly chilly morning and evening breezes give a sense of autumn approaching .
The flowers on display in the storefront are full of autumn vibes.
This month we will introduce flowers with a slightly more mature atmosphere that are perfect for the long autumn nights!
chrysanthemum

Japanese name: Chrysanthemum
Family name: Asteraceae
Genus name : Chrysanthemum
The chrysanthemum is also Japan's national flower.
This flower has been loved by people since ancient times and is also used for decorations at New Year's Day and seasonal festivals such as Shichi-Go-San.
Chrysanthemum flowers are also displayed on the Choyo Festival, one of the five seasonal festivals , which is held on September 9th .
By decorating with chrysanthemum flowers and drinking chrysanthemum wine, people pray for good health and eternal youth and longevity.
Because it is often used as an offering flower, it is often thought to be unlucky, but it is a very high-ranking and noble flower.
Because of its noble and elegant appearance, the flower has been given the meanings of " nobility " and " integrity . "
When displaying them at home, remove any unnecessary leaves and snap off the stems with your hands before arranging them.
Use less water as the stems are more susceptible to damage.
Recently, there has been progress in improving varieties, and there is an increase in modern chrysanthemums, such as the cute, round "ping pong mum" and the gorgeous "disbat mum" with its large single flower.
If you come across some lovely chrysanthemums, feel free to decorate them!
Japanese silver grass

Japanese name: Pampas grass
Family name : Poaceae
Genus name : Miscanthus
Miscanthus can also be seen on riverbanks.
It is one of the seven autumn herbs, and the sight of it swaying gently in the breeze signals the arrival of autumn.
The fifteenth night of the month is when Japanese pampas grass comes into full bloom.
Since ancient times, pampas grass has been considered the abode of the moon god, and decorating with pampas grass, which resembles rice ears, on the fifteenth night of the full moon is said to have the effect of praying for a good harvest and warding off evil spirits.
The date of the 15th night of the eighth month on the lunar calendar changes every year, and in 2022 it will fall on September 10th .
If you want to decorate with Japanese pampas grass early, we recommend using ones that have not yet fully opened!
Decorating it with chrysanthemums and gentians will make your moon viewing even more wonderful.
cockscomb

Japanese name: Cockscomb
Family name : Amaranthaceae
Genus name : Celosia
The unique appearance of the cockscomb is eye-catching.
It is called " cockscomb " because it resembles a chicken's comb .
They have very long-lasting flowers, and many of them retain their beautiful colors even when dried, and their flower language is " unfading love . "
With its velvety texture and warmth, celosia is perfect for autumn arrangements.
In fact, the colored parts that look like flowers are actually modified stems!
There are small flowers at the base of the plant, and seeds are produced after the flowers have finished blooming.
If you come across a cockscomb, please take a moment to observe it closely.
Many of them are head-heavy, so care must be taken when displaying them.
Arrange the flowers with short stems or in a stable vase to prevent them from falling over.
By using less water, you can enjoy it for a longer period of time.
Cosmos

Japanese name: Cosmos
Family name : Asteraceae
Genus name : Cosmos
The sight of cosmos flowers swaying gently in the breeze signals the arrival of autumn.
The name cosmos comes from the Greek word " kosmos" ( beautiful ) , and because the petals are reminiscent of cherry blossoms, it was named after the autumn cherry blossoms .
Cosmos may be best known for its pink color, but recent advances in breeding have led to stores stocking a variety of colors, including white, yellow, and orange.
There is also a wide variety of varieties, including double-flowered flowers with voluminous petals and ones that smell like chocolate!
When selecting in the store, choose ones that hold their heads up firmly and have firm leaves.
When displaying it at home, remove any excess leaves and tap the tip of the stem to ensure it absorbs water properly.
Gentian

Japanese name: Gentian
Family name : Gentianaceae
Genus name : Gentian
Gentians herald the arrival of autumn.
Native to Japan, it has been popular as a flower that represents the fields and mountains of autumn.
Because the flowers last so long, they are also highly valued as Buddhist flowers for the equinox.
The roots are mainly used in traditional Chinese medicine, and the flower's meaning is " victory " due to its association with overcoming illness.
The vibrant blue, which seems unnatural, adds an accent to a serene autumn arrangement.
If there is not enough water, the leaves will wilt and become limp, so when choosing in the store, choose ones with firm leaves.
When decorating at home, bend the stems by hand.
Author: Nakanishi Edited by: Yui and Sekido