Translation guide
A flowering shrub with large, showy blossoms, distinct from herbaceous peonies. In Japanese, the word 牡丹 (botan) refers specifically to the tree peony, which holds cultural significance in art, design, and traditional motifs.
牡丹
tree peony (plant/flower)
Referring to the tree peony as a plant, its flowers, or in gardening contexts.
The standard Japanese word for tree peony. It is widely understood and used in everyday and horticultural contexts.
庭に牡丹が咲いています。
Tree peonies are blooming in the garden.
牡丹の花はとても豪華です。
Tree peony flowers are very gorgeous.
Using 'tree peony' in the context of Japanese art, patterns, or symbolism, where it represents wealth, honor, and beauty.
In traditional Japanese culture, the tree peony (牡丹) is a common motif in kimono patterns, paintings, and family crests. It is often associated with prosperity and feminine beauty.
この着物には牡丹の模様が入っています。
This kimono has a tree peony pattern.
牡丹は「花の王」と呼ばれることがあります。
The tree peony is sometimes called the 'king of flowers'.
Clarifying that the English term 'tree peony' refers to a woody shrub, not the herbaceous peony, which is a different plant in Japanese.
In Japanese, 牡丹 (botan) is the tree peony, while 芍薬 (shakuyaku) is the herbaceous peony. They are distinct plants, and mixing them up can cause confusion in gardening or floral contexts.
牡丹は木ですが、芍薬は草です。
Tree peonies are woody, but herbaceous peonies are herbaceous.