Osmanthus is a visual pun for “noble” or “distinguished” in Chinese art. Because the flowers bloom around the time of the Mid-Autumn Festival or Moon Festival—which corresponds with the full moon—osmanthus plants are also associated with the moon. Osmanthus-flavored sweets and teas are particularly popular during this harvest festival. In late imperial China, the osmanthus was affiliated with the imperial examinations, which were held in the eighth lunar month, the same month as the Mid-Autumn Festival today.