The chrysanthemum is a symbol of autumn, and together with orchids, plum blossoms and bamboo they form si junzi (meaning the “Four Gentleman” or “Four Noble Qualities”) to represent the integrity and humility of the scholar. It's also a symbol of longevity because of its health-giving properties. During the Han dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE), people drank chrysanthemum wine on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month in order to prolong their lives. Nowadays, the Chinese continue to drink chrysanthemum petal tea for its health benefits. An image of bamboo together with chrysanthemum can serve as a rebus for birthday greetings and a wish for longevity.

The chrysanthemum pattern is unique and one of the important patterns of Chinese porcelain. There are also many famous works of porcelain decorated with chrysanthemums from past dynasties. The decorative techniques of chrysanthemum patterns on ceramics in the Qing Dynasty were particularly rich and there were many innovations. The decorative techniques combine a variety of techniques from the previous dynasties, including various high-temperature colored glazes, blue and white, underglaze red, doucai, and multicolored.