Chrysanthemums

/krɪˈsænθəməmz/ noun

Definition

Colorful flowers with many layered petals, often used in decorations or given as gifts; they bloom in fall and come in many colors.

Etymology

From Greek 'chrysos' (gold) plus 'anthemon' (flower), literally meaning 'golden flower'; the plant originated in China and was named by Greek botanists for its yellow varieties.

Kelly Says

In Japan, chrysanthemums are so respected they have their own holiday (Chrysanthemum Festival), but in some Western countries they're only given at funerals—the exact same flower means joy in one culture and grief in another.

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