What’s In a Motif? Part 6

I haven’t updated this feature in almost 6 months, so it seems quite appropriate to do so now ^o^!

Maple Leaves - Kaede (楓) or Momiji (紅葉) Rarity: Common Seasons: All The maple leaf, and specifically the Japanese maple leaf varieties, can be found in many cultivated gardens around the world. The Japanese cultivars, with their seven pointed leaves, come in a variety of shapes and sizes from very round (known as moon maples) to very thin (known as finger maples). The majority of these plants do not lose all of their leaves in the autumn like Western maples do, but rather dry up while on the branch and slowly fall off either via snow piling up or spring weather.  Having two different words for maple leaves may seem a bit odd, but it’s done to be specific and prevent confusion. Kaede is used when referring to green maple leaves while Momiji refers to maple leaves that have taken on their autumn hues.   Because of the multitude of forms that they take, maple leaves represent change, patience, and versatility. The maple leaves are to the fall what cherry blossoms are to the spring; they are a reminder of life’s fleeting beauty amidst change. In the spring and summer months they are bursting with beautiful leaves that provide shade and protection. In the fall they provide an explosion of colors before the winter winds take them away, leaving only dried reminders of their once glorious selves. They’re considered an all season motif and can be found on kimono and obi throughout the year. It must be noted that maple leaves are often confused with hemp leaves when looking at kimono motifs. Hemp leaves also have seven points and are known for their changing fall colors, but they will always have shaggy or edged points on their leaves.  I was having some issues with the graphics so I’ll try and redo them later ^^;