Meaning: The quote you have provided is from Robert Fortune, a Scottish botanist, and plant hunter who is best known for his travels to China in the mid-19th century. In this quote, Fortune is emphasizing the significance of chrysanthemums in Chinese culture and horticulture. He notes that chrysanthemums are of great importance to the Chinese and that they are managed extremely well, perhaps better than any other plant.

Chrysanthemums have a long and rich history in China, where they are highly revered and hold symbolic meaning. In Chinese culture, the chrysanthemum is associated with longevity, rejuvenation, and nobility. The flower is often featured in art, literature, and traditional Chinese medicine, and it holds a special place in Chinese festivals and celebrations.

The Chinese have been cultivating chrysanthemums for thousands of years, and they have developed various techniques for growing and caring for these flowers. Chrysanthemum cultivation in China dates back to the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD), and the Chinese have selectively bred and developed numerous chrysanthemum varieties, each with its unique characteristics and symbolism.

Fortune's observation that the Chinese manage chrysanthemums extremely well reflects the skill and expertise that Chinese horticulturalists have developed in the cultivation of these flowers. The Chinese have perfected the art of growing chrysanthemums, and their mastery of techniques such as bonsai, pruning, and training has resulted in the creation of stunning and intricate chrysanthemum displays.

One of the most famous ways in which chrysanthemums are displayed in China is through the art of chrysanthemum bonsai, known as "Kiku" in Japanese or "Ju" in Chinese. Chrysanthemum bonsai involves carefully training and shaping chrysanthemum plants to create miniature trees with intricate, twisted trunks and delicate, colorful blooms. This art form requires precision and skill, and the Chinese have become renowned for their mastery of chrysanthemum bonsai.

In addition to their cultural and aesthetic significance, chrysanthemums also hold medicinal properties in traditional Chinese medicine. The flowers, leaves, and roots of the chrysanthemum plant are used to make herbal remedies for various ailments, including headaches, fevers, and inflammation. Chrysanthemum tea, made from the dried flowers, is also popular in China and is believed to have cooling and detoxifying properties.

Chrysanthemums are also an integral part of Chinese festivals and celebrations. The flower is associated with the Double Ninth Festival, also known as the Chongyang Festival, which is celebrated on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. During this festival, people traditionally climb mountains, drink chrysanthemum wine, and wear the flower as a symbol of protection and good fortune.

In summary, Robert Fortune's quote highlights the deep cultural, horticultural, and symbolic significance of chrysanthemums in Chinese society. The Chinese have cultivated chrysanthemums for centuries, honing their skills in growing, shaping, and appreciating these flowers. Chrysanthemums hold a special place in Chinese culture, representing longevity, beauty, and resilience, and they continue to be revered and celebrated in various aspects of Chinese life.

Overall, chrysanthemums are an integral part of Chinese culture and horticulture, and the Chinese people's deep appreciation and skillful management of these flowers reflect their enduring significance in Chinese society.