As April graces us with its presence, it brings with it the season of blossoming flowers, marking the enchantment and scintillating beauty of spring.
In Chenshan Botanical Garden, located in East China's Shanghai, this spectacle is unfolding right now with a vibrant display of flowers of all sorts, heralding the arrival of the season in all its glory.
But it's the begonias, cherished traditional flowers in China with a rich history of cultivation, that are currently stealing the limelight in the garden. With over 50 varieties of them there – including native and modern breeds from both domestic and international origins – visitors are treated to a mesmerizing array of colors and forms.
From the early bloomers like the Weeping begonias to the later-flowering modern varieties – introduced from countries like the US, the Netherlands and France – each specimen adds its own unique charm to the garden's enthralling visual tapestry.
Among the notable varieties showcased are the graceful Peak begonia – awarded the prestigious gold prize by the Royal Horticultural Society in 2002 – and the delicate Louisa begonia, known for its exquisite pink flowers and weeping branches.
The Peak begonia always captures the attention of people, with its elegant conical crown and abundant white flowers tinged with pink, blooming from late March to mid-April. [Photo/Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden]
The Louisa begonia is a much sought-after ornamental triumph, with its fragrant pinkish-white striped flowers and luscious bloom. [Photo/Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden]
In addition to their ornamental value, the begonias also carry cultural significance, evoking nostalgia for ancient times when they were revered as symbols of prosperity and beauty.
As visitors wander through the garden's pathways, they are captivated by the delicate petals and sweet fragrance of the begonias – a testament to the timeless allure of spring's floral splendor.
Now, with the begonias in full bloom, Chenshan Botanical Garden is inviting everyone to come and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and celebrate the joys of spring.
