May 22

Birth Flower

Chamomile
German Chamomile Camomile

Scientific Name: Matricaria recutita
Family: Asteraceae

Flower Language

  • Healing

Characteristics

Colors:

Description

An annual herb of the Asteraceae family native to Europe, producing white flowers similar to daisies. The flowers emit a refreshing apple-like fragrance, earning it the nickname 'earth apple'. Used as a medicinal plant since ancient times, it is still enjoyed as herbal tea today. Known for its sleep-inducing and relaxing effects, with recognized anti-inflammatory properties.

Trivia

  • Scientific name Matricaria means 'womb', derived from its use in gynecological medicine
  • Famous herb that appears in Peter Rabbit stories
  • Sometimes called 'doctor's remedy' in Europe
  • NASA research confirmed its air purification effects

Uses

Ornamental
  • Cultivation in herb gardens
  • Used as cut flowers
  • Enjoyed as potted plants
Medicinal
  • Sleep aid and relaxation effects
  • Anti-inflammatory properties
  • Digestive aid
  • Relief of early cold symptoms

Caution: Pregnant women should avoid use, caution needed for those with Asteraceae allergies

Culinary
  • Flowers
  • Leaves
Other
  • Raw material for cosmetics
  • Essential oil for aromatherapy
  • Used as dried flowers

Toxicity

Toxicity Level: Mild

Toxic Parts: Flowers, Leaves

Symptoms: May cause dermatitis or respiratory symptoms in those allergic to Asteraceae family.

Three-leaf Azalea
Mitsuba Azalea

Scientific Name: Rhododendron dilatatum
Family: Ericaceae

Flower Language

  • Self-controlled life

Characteristics

Colors:

Description

A deciduous shrub of the Ericaceae family and endemic to Japan. It grows wild in mountainous regions on the Pacific side from Kanto to Chubu, blooming beautiful purple-pink flowers from April to May. Named for its characteristic of having three leaves at branch tips, flowers bloom before leaves unfold. It prefers harsh environments like barren ridges and rocky areas, inspiring its flower language meaning 'self-controlled life'.

Trivia

  • Representative species among about 30 types of Mitsuba azaleas endemic to Japan
  • Flower beauty stands out due to blooming before leaf emergence
  • Symbolizes 'temperance' due to vitality in harsh environments
  • Also called 'Ichiban Tsutsuji' in Kanto region

Uses

Ornamental
  • Planted as garden trees
  • Ornamental use in parks and green spaces
  • Enjoyed as bonsai
  • Used as cut flowers
Medicinal

Caution: Should avoid medicinal use as Ericaceae plants generally contain toxic compounds

Culinary

Not edible

Other
  • Wood used for small crafts
  • Occasionally used as dye

Toxicity

Toxicity Level: Moderate

Toxic Parts: Leaves, Flowers, Stems

Symptoms: Ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions and other poisoning symptoms.