Roses and Peonies (479 Piece Wooden Jigsaw Puzzle)

Flowers are among the most popular gifts around the world. They are appropriate for any occasion and have symbolic meaning in many countries and cultures. Peonies are native to Asia, Europe, and Western North America. Their first mention in early records was in 1000 BC, and the Chinese Tang Dynasty began breeding them in the imperial courts around 700 BC. They were once considered the national flower.  In China and Japan, the blooms mean wealth, honor, and good fortune. They also symbolize longevity, as the plants can live up to one hundred years. In China, the flower is called Sho Yu, which means "most beautiful." Luoyang, in China, is known as the City of Peonies. There is a botanical garden where over 100 varieties bloom. A festival is held each year to celebrate the peony's beauty, and the residents enjoy the wonderful fragrance. Horticulturalists believe roses were first cultivated in southern China around 500 BC. Most of the roses grown today are hybrids and selections related t