The Gentle Moments Created by Winter Tea Flowers

As the harsh winter cold sets in, simply adding a single flower to the tea room fills the space with a calming, warm atmosphere. In the art of tea, “chabana” (tea flowers) is cherished for its modest and natural beauty, reflecting the changing seasons. Winter’s tea flowers, with their elegant and dignified presence, bring a special warmth to the tea room.

 

From simple ideas for beginners to more refined suggestions for experienced practitioners, this article explores the enjoyment of winter tea flowers.

The Basics of Choosing Tea Flowers: Focusing on Harmony of Fragrance

When selecting tea flowers, it’s important to focus on the harmony between “kaori” (incense) and “kaori” (scent). Since incense is often burned in tea ceremonies, flowers with strong scents are generally avoided. For example, buds are used to preserve the subtle fragrance before full bloom. While winter flowers like the wax plum (robinia) have a strong scent, using them in bud form makes them perfect for the tea room. Wildflowers, which tend to have little to no fragrance, are also commonly chosen.

For Beginners: A Simple Approach to Enjoying Tea Flowers

For those new to tea flowers, here are simple and approachable methods:

• Use Local Plants: Placing a flower like camellia or narcissus, found in your garden or neighborhood, in a vase adds a touch of winter to the room.

• Choose Any Vase: You don’t need special vessels—small cups or your favorite vases work just as well to create the tea flower ambiance.

Start by finding your own “one flower” without worrying about strict formality.

For Experienced Practitioners: Advanced Ways to Enjoy Winter Tea Flowers

For those with more experience, here are suggestions to elevate the tea flower arrangement:

• Incorporate Plum Blossoms or Ume (Plum-like Flower): These flowers, with their subtle fragrance and graceful colors, bring a quiet beauty to the tea room.

• Express Winter Scenery with Moss and Branches: Adding moss or small branches to narcissus or white camellia evokes the tranquility of winter mountains or snowy landscapes.

• Choose Seasonal Plants: During the New Year, opt for quieter flowers like ume-mokodoki or red-and-white plums, rather than the nan-ten commonly used.

When considering the overall story of the tea gathering, paying attention to the harmony of fragrance, color, and form will enhance the deep beauty of tea flowers.

Bringing Warmth to the Heart with Winter Tea Flowers

Winter tea flowers, with their dignified beauty, brighten the tea room and bring a gentle warmth to the heart. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, enjoy the unique qualities of these flowers this season and experience the deeper charm of tea ceremony.