Shoka

The ornamental quince (bot. Chaenomeles) belongs to the rose family (Rosaceae). This plant genus is native to East Asia (Japan, China, Myanmar) and comprises five species. Their flowers are white, salmon-coloured or even red and have a wonderful fragrance. They enrich any garden or park, especially in spring, giving it an Asian ambience. The striking flowers attract bees in particular, but the fruits that appear later are also edible. Quince is one of the most popular ornamental shrubs in gardens and parks.

The bird of paradise flower is a fascinating plant that makes a real statement with its vibrant flowers and exotic shapes, and not just in the Rikka Shōfūtai. It belongs to the Strelitziaceae family and originally comes from the humid tropical regions of Africa.

If you are longing for warmth, the sea and a spring awakening after the dark and cold winter months here, then the time is ripe for the Côte d'Azur. After the mild winters, in spring on the Côte d'Azur nature comes to life along the coast and a variety of flowers begin to bloom to fill the landscape with color and fragrance.

One of the most notable blooms is the mimosa, which adorns the hills and valleys of the region with bright yellow flowers in February and March. Their sweet fragrance and radiant color transform the landscape into a true paradise.

The hatsu-ike 初生け, the first arrangement of the year, which is made up of the characters hatsu 初 (the first) and 生け (Ike) from the term ikebana, stands for the first ikebana of the year. It is not just a ritual, but also celebrates new beginnings and the art of living in harmony with nature. In the spirit of hatsu-ike, kadokas create special arrangements to mark the transition into the new year. This practice is a symbolic gesture for renewal and reflects the hopes and aspirations for the coming year.