The Garden Bug: The Three Friends of Winter

By Brenda Weaver

Pine and bamboo are evergreen through winter, and plum tree blossoms signal the approach of spring. Together these plants form a motif in Chinese art and culture called "The Three Friends of Winter" that represents steadfastness, perseverance, and resilience. This imagery has been used in Chinese literature, painting, poetry, and calligraphy since the thirteen century.

Sources: artmuseum.princeton.edu, chinaonlinemuseum.com