Lady and Plum Blossoms, by Hua Yan from the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). [Photo/cguardian.com]

Appreciating plum blossoms

Plums blossom from the 12th lunar month to the second month of the next year. The plum blossom, as it fights against the cold, is the most highly regarded. In China, the plum blossom, orchid, bamboo and chrysanthemum are praised as the four gentlemen of Chinese flowers.