Century-old peonies bloom at Chongming Museum

A close-up view of a blooming peony at the Chongming Museum. [Photo/WeChat account: shchongming]

Several century-old peony plants are now in full bloom at the Chongming Museum, located in the former Chongming Confcian Temple, drawing numerous visitors to admire their timeless beauty. Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by the elegant fragrance of these blossoms.

A century-old peony plant in full bloom at the Chongming Museum. [Photo/WeChat account: shchongming]

Standing about 1.5 meters tall, the peonies produce large flowers measuring up to 20 centimeters in diameter. Their rich purple hues, rarely seen in common varieties, and layered petals exude the elegance befitting the "king of flowers".

Blooming light pink peony. [Photo/WeChat account: shchongming]

According to local legend, the peonies were planted by Wang Qingmu, a top-ranking scholar in the 1890 imperial exam during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). After returning to his hometown in present-day Chengqiao town, he brought peony seedlings and planted them at the Confucian temple as a symbol of honor and aspiration.

A tourist is taking a photo of peonies.[Photo/WeChat account: shchongming]

The plants have endured for more than a century, withstanding storms while continuing to flourish. Each spring, they bloom punctually, concentrating a century's worth of elegance into each flower.

Close-up of deep pink peonies. [Photo/WeChat account: shchongming]

Regarded as the "treasures" of the museum, the blooming period lasts only about 10 days. The Museum's historic courtyard provides a perfect backdrop that complements the flowers' timeless beauty, inviting citizens not to miss this limited springtime splendor.

Visitors take photos and admire the blooming peonies in the ancient courtyard. [Photo/WeChat account: shchongming]