There is no official national flower of Japan, but the unofficial national flower of Japan is the chrysanthemum. The chrysanthemum, which is most commonly referred to as the cherry blossom, has long been recognized as the symbol of the Japanese imperial family. The discovery and cultivation of this flower is said to date back to 15th century China.
With more than 40 species, the chrysanthemum can be found throughout Asia and northeastern Europe. The cherry blossom is best described as having alternately placed leaves that are separated into leaflets with smooth and toothed edges. The top of the flower is covered in phyllaries with simple rows of ray florets that are red, white or yellow.
