One way China gets ready for Lunar New Year celebrations is by decorating homes with flowers.  Traditionally, orchids, cherry blossoms, peonies, pussy willows, and peach blossoms are chosen for the belief that they will bring prosperity in the coming year.  Peach blossoms are said to be especially good. Most people believe peaches originated in Persia, but they are actually native to China!  Archaeological evidence proved the fruit was first grown there around 6,000 BC.  It was during this period that peach trees were first considered sacred.  This belief came from a story about how the gods were granted immortality after eating the delicious fruit. Since peaches were once the food of the gods, it is said any part of the tree can be used to ward off evil.  Some people carve branches into wands or craft necklaces and other tokens out of the fruit pits.  Peach blossoms are put out during Lunar New Year to attract prosperity and growth in the coming year.  They are also said to bring longevity to the household and good luck in romance. Peach blossoms were chosen for the design of the 2019 Year of the Boar stamp.  These iconic flowers were a perfect choice for the final issue in the Celebrating Lunar New Year Series.