Chrysanthemum Battle: Morifolium vs Pilosum

Chrysanthemum morifolium and Chrysosplenium pilosum are both types of chrysanthemum. Chrysosplenium pilosum originates from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, while Chrysanthemum morifolium comes from Hangzhou. So what’s the difference between Chrysanthemum morifolium and Chrysosplenium pilosum? Which one is better? They differ in size, taste, and health benefits. Chrysanthemum morifolium is an unopened flower bud, while Chrysosplenium pilosum is a full bloom. In terms of health benefits, Chrysanthemum morifolium is superior.

I. Differences between Chrysanthemum morifolium and Chrysosplenium pilosum

1. Difference in Appearance

Chrysosplenium pilosum and Chrysanthemum morifolium are distinctive chrysanthemum varieties in terms of appearance. Chrysanthemum morifolium is typically a bud that has not fully opened, and it is called Chrysanthemum morifolium when harvested in this state.

Its petite and delicate form is its most distinctive feature. Chrysosplenium pilosum, on the other hand, is a fully bloomed flower. It is larger in size and typically spherical. When brewed, it unfurls into a complete chrysanthemum bloom.

2. Difference in Taste

When brewing Chrysanthemum morifolium, you’ll find that the tea it produces has a pure, robust flavor. The tea color is golden, and most notably, Chrysanthemum morifolium tea has a lingering, floral fragrance due to its nectar.

Chrysosplenium pilosum, when brewed, offers a flavor best described as “fragrant, refreshing, sweet, and lively.” Apart from its fresh floral aroma, it also has a vibrant, sweet, and delightful taste.

II. Which is better, Chrysanthemum morifolium or Chrysosplenium pilosum?

Chrysanthemum morifolium is one of the finest varieties among Kunlun Snow Chrysanthemums. It is harvested for the first time when the Hangzhou White Chrysanthemum bud has not fully opened. The first two high-quality harvests, after drying, are used as premium flowers.

The tender buds are carefully steamed and roasted, rendering a unique flavor, and its rarity makes it highly prized. Known also as chamomile, its ancient names include Small Yellow Soup and Small White Chrysanthemum, and it was once offered as tribute.

Chrysanthemum morifolium is mildly cold in nature, spicy, sweet and bitter in taste. It can dispel wind and heat, soothe the liver and improve vision, and detoxify.

The chrysanthemum tea made from Chrysanthemum morifolium has a pure, strong flavor, a golden hue, and a fragrant aroma from the nectar. Even after long periods of steeping, it does not disperse.

Although the medicinal properties of Chrysosplenium pilosum are slightly weaker than those of Chrysanthemum morifolium, it is more suitable for drinking and eating. It also possesses the medicinal properties of chrysanthemum.

Chrysosplenium pilosum, rich in various amino acids, vitamins, and trace elements, is sweet and cool in nature. Not only does it have the ability to clear heat, expel wind, improve vision and detoxify, but it also inhibits capillary permeability, demonstrating excellent anti-inflammatory effects, thereby strengthening the body and promoting longevity.

It has a certain therapeutic effect on diseases such as dry mouth, fiery constitution, eye dryness, or limb pain and numbness caused by wind, cold and dampness. It is primarily used to treat colds, headaches and other diseases. It can also alleviate dizziness, headaches, and tinnitus.