Plum blossoms are proud, orchids are quiet, chrysanthemums are forbearing, and bamboo symbolizes gentleman's integrity.
Plum, orchid, bamboo and chrysanthemum are the symbols of China people's feelings for things, and they are also the most common themes in poems about objects and literati paintings. Their common feature is self-improvement, and Tsinghua, who is outside of them, stays in it and doesn't flatter the world.
They are called "four gentlemen in flowers". The characteristics are: pride, quietness, firmness and lightness.
Plum, orchid, bamboo and chrysanthemum are common and important themes in Chinese painting, and they are also called "four gentlemen". A gentleman is a man of noble character. Plum, orchid, bamboo and chrysanthemum are called "gentlemen". Although it is a metaphor and symbol, plum blossoms bloom in the cold despite the snow. Orchids are elegant and quiet, emitting a faint fragrance; Bamboo is green and tall, "vigorous and modest"; Chrysanthemums are proud of the west wind and open against the frost. These four ornamental plants do have their own unique characters, which are worthy of people's love and are called gentlemen.