The tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa) is from China. It embodies aristocracy, wealth and social status. It is the queen of flowers, paradoxically representing both female beauty and, the yang, the male principle. It may be one of the first flowers ever to be cultivated simply for ornemental purposes. Initially reserved for the emperor, then the richest classes, it eventually became accessible to all and was grown throughout China. Marco Polo, upon discovering Chinese peonies at the of the 8^th century, calles them "roses the size of cabbages". The plant's bark and roots are used in medecine. The plants generally bloom profusely in June.

A chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum x grandiflorum), also from China, produced the large-flowered specimen we see today. Once used for medicinal purposes, this plant is now appreciated for its ornemental value and serves as a flavoring in certain types of tea.

Sweet osmanthus (Osmanthus fragrans) evokes autumn, the season when it blooms. It is said to be princely, elegant and eternal. It is also associated with the moon because, according to the legend, that is where a hare prepared an elixir of life in the shadow of the sweet osmanthus leaves. The creamy white flowers give off a subtle yet long-lasting scent similar to jasmine and are used in tea, wine, medecine and perfume.