The exotic Chrysanthemum

This flower is the star of many East Asian celebrations

If you're keen to add a touch of South East Asia, look no further than the Chrysanthemum...

Double Ninth Festival

China, Japan, Vietnam and Korea all celebrate the Double Ninth Festival on varying dates in September or October each year. In 2014, the Chinese festivities will be in full swing on October 2nd. The Chrysanthemum is a huge part of the celebrations where people drink tea or wine made from the flower. Loose leaf Chrysanthemum tea is available throughout the UK and online so why not toast the celebrations with a cup of floral delights? If you're feeling really creative, you can always make your own Chrysanthemum tea by following this handy DIY from Benetton Blogs.

A symbol of the Emperor

In Japan, the Chrysanthemum is one of the most influential flowers representing both the Emperor and the Imperial family. The pattern of the flower is found in many different shrines and, as it's also the seasonal flower of September, now is the perfect time to learn from the Japanese and get inspired by the bloom.

Decorate your home

With so much cultural importance in East Asia, the flower has plenty to offer flower fans in the UK too. There really are plenty of ways to make the most of this flower of happiness in your own home. Whether you opt to display a vase of Chrysanthemums in the centre of a room to replicate the grandure of the Japanese celebrations, or to add a few touches of the floral print to your decor, there's no reason not to be inspired by this flower!