As temperatures rise, the apricot blossoms at the Confucius Museum in Qufu, Jining have entered full bloom. These blossoms are symbols of spring and hold special significance in Chinese culture.

The apricot blossoms in the Confucius Museum in Qufu, Jining have entered full bloom. [Photo/Confucius Museum]

Among the 12 flowers representing each month, the apricot blossom is honored as the flower god of February. The word "apricot" sounds similar to "happiness" in Chinese, and symbolizes joy and good fortune.

Moreover, the apricot blossom is also associated with education. Legend has it that Confucius (551-479 BC), the greatest educator in China, once lectured at the Apricot Altar, pioneering education for the common people. This historical site attracted students from all directions, becoming a symbol of Confucius' educational spirit.

In ancient times, the blooming of apricot blossoms coincided with the period of the imperial examination, leading them to become known as the flower of the top scholars. This further solidified the apricot blossom as a symbol of scholarly success and achievement.

Painting of Confucius lecturing at the Apricot Altar, Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), Confucius Museum collection. [Photo/Confucius Museum]