Japanese Nature

The seven flowers of autumn

1. Hagi 

Since the olden days, people have always loved to see tiny hagi petals drifting gently to the ground. Many poets have written waka and tanka poems and haiku on hagi. During the Edo period, hagi flower viewing was popular.

2.Ominaeshi (Patrinia scabiosifolia)

The bright yellow flowers of ominaeshi which belong to the Patrinia genus were once a common sight in the Japanese countryside. Nowadays, the number of wild plants is decreasing. 

3.Fujibakama (Eupatorium fortunei)

The real fujibakama which belongs to the genus Eupatorium is now designated an endangered species.

4.Kikyou (Platycodon grandiflorus , Asagao)

Asagao means morning glory though it has generally been regarded as kikyou, balloon flowers, since olden days. 

5.Susuki  or Obana

A vast stretch of susuki fields where susuki plumes were lit by a full moon must have been one of the most impressive sights for ancient people.

6.Nadeshiko
Of the Dianthusmany genus, the one in the seven flowers which grows naturally on dry riverbeds isKawara-nadeshiko. The Nadeshiko Japan is our women’s national football team.

7.Kuzu

Kudzu is considered a serious invasive plant in some countries, however, we have utilized its roots and vines since ancient times. The roots contain starch, and have eaten for a long time in Japan.