Japan’s ancient calendar of 七十二候 72 micro-seasons. This period is called 暑風至るAtsukaze Itaru (Hot Winds Arrive) and 蓮 始めて開くHasu Hajimete Hiraku (Lotus Flowers Begin to Bloom). Melbourne mirrors the essence of these micro-seasons, as red fruits ripen and deepen in colour, and lotus flowers unfurl their delicate petals, their beauty echoed by the soft elegance of water lilies.
The sky, heavy with humid clouds, opens momentarily, allowing sunlight to pierce through—a fierce, startling brilliance that sears the skin in moments. The breeze, thick with the damp heat of the season, carries a weight that foreshadows summer’s relentless grip.
Caught between the yearning to escape this oppressive humidity and the hesitation to embrace summer’s blinding intensity, the heart wavers. Yet, the seasons care not for our musings; they march onward with unyielding rhythm.
In this time of transition, the body calls for preparation, summoning strength for the heat to come. As lotus flowers bloom with the dawn, they whisper resilience—an invitation to rise with grace, no matter how heavy the air may feel.
The Beauty and Versatility of Lotus Flowers
Lotus flowers captivate with their striking beauty and unique qualities. Unlike most plants, they simultaneously grow flowers and seed pods—a rare and fascinating trait. Beyond their visual appeal, the large, waxy leaves serve as natural plates or wrappers, while the roots and seeds are prized for their nutritional value and culinary uses.
One of the most remarkable features of lotus seeds is their extraordinary longevity. The famous "Oga Lotus," for instance, sprouted from seeds estimated to be over 2,000 years old. These ancient seeds lay dormant in the oxygen-deprived mud of marshes, patiently awaiting the rare conditions needed for germination. Such resilience speaks to the plant’s enduring connection to life and renewal.
Lotus plants also exhibit remarkable adaptability. In deep waters, they produce floating leaves that rest on the surface, while in shallow areas, they extend their petioles to create elegant aerial leaves.
The plant’s seed pods, with their sculptural and distinctive forms, are highly valued in ikebana arrangements. Their striking appearance endures even when dried, making them a favorite for creating both fresh and dried floral designs. With their unique shape and texture, lotus seed pods inspire artistic and sculptural creations, offering endless possibilities for imaginative expression.
Physalis (Ground Cherry)
Physalis, known as Hozuki in Japan and originating from Japan and East Asia, begins to appear in markets around this time of year. Its charming lantern-like fruits are used both for ornamental purposes and as a food ingredient. The vibrant vermilion red of the fruit is considered an auspicious colour and is often featured in celebratory decorations.
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