Watch as artist Ze Ming Zhao demonstrates the traditional brush painting skills he uses to capture the spirit of peony, one of China's most revered plants. In Chinese culture, peony (or “mu-dan” in Chinese) symbolizes fame, wealth, and feminine beauty. Red peonies are the most desired and valuable, while white peonies represent young, witty, beautiful ladies. First used medicinally, by the 7th century peonies were a favorite subject of Chinese poets and painters as a symbol of honor, wealth, and rank. By the 11th century, its popularity was widespread and more than 100 cultivars had been developed. With large, lush blooms, it’s easy to understand why China considers the peony, “King of Flowers.”
Discover what's currently in bloom at Lan Su by picking up a copy of Lan Su's most recent Bloom Guide at the door or download your copy now. Featuring 16 of the most fragrant or most beautiful plants in the garden, the Plant Guide is your window into Lan Su's horticultural landscape.
Plant Guides by Season:
Spring Plant Guide — Download your copy now (PDF, 6.3 KB)
Summer Plant Guide — Download your copy now (PDF, 951 KB)
See the complete list of all the ground covers, shrubs, trees, vines, herbaceous perennials and bamboo in the garden with Lan Su's Master Species List.
239 Northwest Everett Street, Portland, Oregon 97209
Call Us: 503.228.8131
Lan Su Chinese Garden
38 NW Davis St #260, Portland, OR 97209
Members, donors and visitors help keep Lan Su healthy and growing. Lan Su is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and all donations and memberships are tax deductible. Lan Su’s Federal Tax ID number (EIN) is 93-1296840.