The flowers introduced on the October edition of “NHK Hirumae Hot” are as follows: Gloriosa Superba (Glory lily), Gossypium arboretum (Cotton Tree), Cupressus sempervirens (Cypress), Helleborus niger (Christmas rose) and Antirrhinum majus (Snapdragon). The items are also featured on the official website of “Hirumae Hot”.
This month’s featured guest is the “brain” in our flower industry, Ms. Ikuko Naito from Ota Flower’s Life Research Institute!
In Japan, and also globally, Gloriosa Superba is so highly acclaimed that it is called the “Unbeatable Contestant.” One of the varieties introduced this time, ‘ZEN,’ received a gold award at the international horticultural exposition in the Netherlands last year, held once every decade. It is a highly praised variety with a beautiful orange colour. It is a bit smaller than the usual Gloriosa Superba.
Gloriosa Superba ZEN (orange) and Royal (red) – JA Aichiminami (Aichi, Atsumi)
Cotton is a familiar part of our lives, but in its state attached to branches, it has a very unique shape. Since it is a mallow plant, it blooms with flowers similar to mallow. After the fruit is matured and swells, it bursts, revealing fluffy white or brown cotton. It’s an item that greatly enhances the Christmas atmosphere.
Gossypium Arboretum – Importer: Classic Japan Ltd.
Perfect Cypress kinds for Christmas arrangements are Cupressus sempervirens Blue Ice and Himurosugi (scientific name: Chamaecyparis pisifera ‘Squarrosa’). They are supplied from Saitama, Shizuoka, Ibaraki, and other places. Blue Ice is characterized by a silvery blue color, a very pleasant scent, and is widely used in Christmas wreaths and arrangements. Even in the cold winter, it retains its leaves, and the evergreen tree feels vibrant.
Cupressus sempervirens Blue Ice, Chamaecyparis pisifera Himurosugi – Saitama Hama Flower Garden
As the name suggests, “Christmas Rose” exhibits a mystical appearance perfect for Christmas and is supplied from various locations, including Tochigi and Tokyo. The part recognized as flower petals is actually calyx, and that is why you can enjoy its “flower” for a long time. Consequently, the stock of Helloborus niger grows large, and people can enjoy it year after year.
Helleborus niger Christmas Rose – Tochigi Giardino Kawamura
Lastly, we introduced Antirrhinum majus Snapdragon. It is supplied from Chiba, Saitama, and Shizuoka. While about 100 varieties are distributed in the market annually, current attention has been paid to the glamorous double types.
Antirrhinum majus Snapdragon – Chiba Max Flower Mr. Yamazaki, JA Irumano
Here is an arrangement created with the featured flowers this time! It’s a type of wreath to be placed on the table. It looks beautiful from all angles, making it perfect for the Christmas table. How would you like to decorate your Christmas dining table?
Production: Ms. Chiharu Suzuki
Translation: Ms. Shang Kuan; Edit: Mr. Kato