There is a special place in Chinese culture for chrysanthemums as the flowers symbolize serenity and seclusion, a common trait of ancient poetry.

From Sept 17 to Oct 30, visitors to Yuxi in Yunnan province will be treated to a chrysanthemum festival where more than 40,000 pots of 200 different types of the flower will be on display.

The highlight of the festival will be the rare species of tower chrysanthemum, which can grow some 11 stories high, and cliff chrysanthemum, which can grow 1.5 meters long.

A series of activities such as a flower appreciation trip, flower banquet, qipao catwalk, and chrysanthemum lantern show will also be held during the festival.

A ceremonial plate adorned with Chinese poetry sits among a bed of chrysanthemums. [Photo/ynci.cn]

Colorful chrysanthemums are on display at the Yuxi chrysanthemum festival. [Photo/ynci.cn]