Ranunculus
Persian buttercup
Crowfoot
Scientific Name:
Ranunculus asiaticus
Family:
Ranunculaceae
Description
The name Ranunculus, which is also its scientific name, derives from the Latin word meaning 'frog.' This is because this plant grows wild in wetlands where frogs inhabit. The flower language of 'brilliant charm' comes from the silky texture of the petals that evokes silk dresses.
Trivia
- Characterized by luxurious appearance with multiple layers of petals
- Peak season is winter, most available from December to April
- Contains the toxic compound protoanemonin
- Only Batrachium among Ranunculus genus is edible
Uses
Ornamental
- Cut flowers
- Bouquets
- Flower beds
- Potted plants
Medicinal
- Used medicinally in ancient times but not recommended now
Caution:
Contains toxic components, medicinal use is dangerous
Culinary
Not edible due to toxicity
Other
- Perfume ingredient
- Decorative motifs
Toxicity
Toxicity Level:
Severe
Toxic Parts:
Entire plant, Especially bulbs
Symptoms:
Can cause dermatitis, acts as cardiac toxin, and may cause cardiac arrest in severe cases
Jasmine
Jessamine
Scientific Name:
Jasminum officinale
Family:
Oleaceae
Flower Language
-
temptation
-
loveliness
-
sensual
-
gentleness
-
elegance
Description
Many species are fragrant and bloom in spring. The commonly available Star Jasmine offers beautiful flowers and fragrance. Perfume jasmine is extracted from Jasminum grandiflorum. Called the 'Queen of Fragrances' or 'King of the Night,' it's one of the most important materials in the perfume industry.
Trivia
- One of the three major floral notes along with rose and muguet
- Called 'King of the Night' because it's more fragrant at night
- About 1000 flowers are needed to obtain 1g of essential oil
- About 400 species of jasmine exist worldwide
Uses
Ornamental
- Gardens
- Hedges
- Potted plants
- Cut flowers
Medicinal
- Used as sedative in traditional medicine
- Relaxation effects in aromatherapy
Caution:
Use under expert guidance
Other
- Perfumes
- Cosmetics
- Soaps
- Incense
Toxicity
Toxicity Level:
Mild
Toxic Parts:
When consumed in large quantities
Symptoms:
Generally safe but avoid consuming in large quantities
China Aster
Annual Aster
Callistephus
Scientific Name:
Callistephus chinensis
Family:
Asteraceae
Description
The scientific name Callistephus means 'beautiful crown.' Previously belonged to the genus Aster (meaning 'star' in Greek) due to its star-like flower appearance. Still commonly called aster in horticulture. Many garden varieties exist with abundant flower colors.
Trivia
- Various sizes from 3cm small flowers to 10cm large flowers
- Known as a plant prone to continuous cropping disorders
- Very abundant flower colors including white, pink, purple, and red
- Semi-hardy annual that is sensitive to frost
Uses
Ornamental
- Flower beds
- Cut flowers
- Potted plants
- Bouquets
Medicinal
- No particular medicinal use
Caution:
Enjoy as an ornamental plant
Other
- Pressed flowers
- Dried flowers
- Horticultural education
Toxicity
Symptoms:
No particular toxicity
Narcissus
Daffodil
Jonquil
Scientific Name:
Narcissus pseudonarcissus
Family:
Amaryllidaceae
Characteristics
Colors:
yellow
Description
Native to Spain and North Africa along the Mediterranean coast, it came to Japan via China before the Muromachi period. It blooms small, fragrant, cup-shaped flowers from December to February, and is also called 'snow flower' because it blooms even in snow.
Trivia
- Poisoning accidents occur when bulbs are mistaken for onions
- Contains toxic compounds like lycorine and galanthamine
- Known as 'snow flower' in the Hokuriku region
- Can easily bloom flowers through water cultivation
Uses
Ornamental
- New Year decorations
- Cut flowers
- Garden planting
- Potted plants
Medicinal
- Used medicinally in ancient times
Caution:
Contains toxic components, medicinal use is dangerous now
Culinary
Not edible due to toxicity
Other
- Perfume ingredient
- Literary motifs
Toxicity
Toxicity Level:
Severe
Toxic Parts:
Entire plant, Especially bulbs
Symptoms:
Causes vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, headaches, coma, and can be life-threatening in severe cases