Pine, bamboo and plum thrive through the cold winter days. They are called "Three Friends in Cold Weather". Pines are ever-green trees with strong vitality. They are honored with a character of strong will. They are more generally regarded as the symbol of longevity among the masses. Bamboo survives and flourishes as usual in the cold wind. As bamboo has hollow joints and is upstanding, it is gifted with characters of inflexibility and modesty and is honored as a "gentleman". The plum is a famous flower of China. Appreciated for nobleness, purity and modesty, they encourage people to improve themselves. Symbolizing the noble characters esteemed and pursued by Chinese people, they have always been cherished and extolled by Chinese poets in the past. Plums are also characterized as the advent of good news.