For most of 2010 and 2011, the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has been busy as bees flying from Ha Noi to Da Nang to Sai Gon in their endeavor to find a flower fitting the following criteria:
- Indigenous to Vietnam
- Easily and popularly grown
- Beautiful and scented
- Frequently used and highly valued in various art forms, including but not limited to art, literature, sculpture, and architecture
- Symbolic of the nation’s character, culture, or spirit
- Favored by the masses
The year-long project finally ended as the Year of the Dragon began with the lotus leading the national polls at 71%, followed by apricot (18%), peach (7%), and orchid (4%). According to the ministry, the lotus is not only noble and elegant but has a pure beauty. Lotus represents the Vietnamese people’s friendly nature and adaptability.
Regulations on using the the national flower and on activities that promote or honor the floral emblem both nationally and internationally will be announced with the Prime Minister’s approval. The ministry is also in the process of organizing a logo contest for the floral emblem. If you are interested, please visit the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism website for more information.
