Pine, bamboo and prunus (plum). Together, the 'Three Friends of Winter' all symbolizes long life. Since they can all endure cold weather as in 'flourishing under adverse conditions'. Longevity, perseverance and integrity are the ideal virtues of the scholar-gentleman.
Together they symbolize longevity, perseverance, and integrity being the virtues of the ideal scholar-gentleman. They are also associated with the three main religions of China; Buddhism, Daoism and Confucianism.
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