Sunflowers always refer to springTRUE? Perhaps it is because of its vibrant yellow color or because it is its flowering time, but during that station it is more likely that people will be happier. So the relationship of these flowers with mood seems – almost – logical and we love it.
We have already learned to grow them and maintain them or place them in the best places of home; However, little we talk about the beauty that invades them and why they are synonymous with happiness and tranquility. Therefore, it is time to address the aspects that make sunflowers into the flowers that, par excellence, transmit joy to humans, animals and even home.
Sunflowers in different cultures
First, we must say that Sunflowers are really called Helianthus Annuus; However, in some countries they are also known as Mirasol, Wonder, Teja and Acahual corn. These are native of the American continent, specifically from the center to the north and there are records of its «domestication» in Mexico around the year 2600 AC, although its first crops date from the year 1000 AC
So, In each region, sunflowers have different meanings and representations. In Mexico, which is where they are native they were related to the God of the Sun, especially for the Aztecs. That is, Huitzilopochtli, which in turn was the god of war as well. Similarly, for the Otomi culture they alluded to the sun and their deity. For the Incas, the Chancas, the Huancas and Chachapoyas in Peru, they were also a kind of representation of the Sun, and this was for The similarity of the colors that the star emitted with those of the sunflowers. In fact, one of the Spanish invaders, Francisco Pizarro, arrived in the Peruvian territory to investigate a bit of cultures and found that the Incas venerated an image of sunflower.
It is believed that it was the Spaniards who took the sunflowers to Europe And from there to the rest of the world, until they arrived in Asia, specifically to China. In that country they took them as a symbol of good luck and therefore, when they give them what they mean is «I admire you and I wish you the best.» Meanwhile, in Japan they were taken as representation of vitality and positive energy, as well as a symbol of fertility, to the degree of creating parties in their honor for the beauty they broadcast. Also, over the years they created a new kind of sunflower called Japanese sunflower, which is a little smaller and with many more petals that cover the so recognizable dark center.