Gymnaster
Savafier's aster Japanese aster

Scientific Name: Gymnaster savatieri
Family: Asteraceae

Flower Language

  • brief thoughts
  • brief respite
  • tranquility

Characteristics

Colors: purple

Description

Miyakowasure is a perennial plant native to Japan in the Asteraceae family, developed as a horticultural variety of Miyamayomena. It blooms flowers ranging from deep purple to light purple, pink, and white from April to June. The name originates from a historical tale where Emperor Juntoku, while exiled to Sado Island, found comfort in viewing this flower and was able to forget his longing for the capital. It has been cherished as a tea ceremony flower since the Edo period.

Trivia

  • Has over 300 years of cultivation history since the Edo period
  • In tea ceremony, sometimes called by the poetic name 'yamaji no tsuyu' (dew on mountain paths)
  • Flower size is a modest 3-4cm, optimal size for tea ceremony flowers
  • Beloved as a symbol of farewell and comfort due to Emperor Juntoku's historical tale

Uses

Ornamental
  • One of the most important flower materials for tea ceremony
  • Shade gardens in Japanese-style landscapes
  • Bonsai-style arrangement in potted plants
Medicinal
  • In folk medicine, believed to have fever-reducing properties
  • Leaf juice used to relieve eye strain

Caution: Medical effects are not proven, recommended to enjoy for ornamental purposes

Culinary

Not suitable for consumption, please limit use to ornamental purposes

Other
  • Can be enjoyed as cut flowers for short periods
  • Popular material for pressed flowers

Toxicity

Symptoms: Generally considered non-toxic, but avoid consumption as it is not edible