The Chrysanthemum has been around — and impacting cultures around the world — for centuries. The flower is believed to have gotten its start in China in the 15th century B.C. It was used as an herb to promote long life. In the 8th century A.D. the flower made its way to Japan where people were so taken by the flower’s beauty the chrysanthemum became the official crest of the emperor. The “mums,” as they’re also known, made it to the West in the 17th century when Swedish botanist Karl Linnaeus brought them across the pond. The fall-friendly flower gets its own festival at Smith College this month and features Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging.

Fall Chrysanthemum Show, Nov. 7-22, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Suggested $5 donation. Smith College Botanic Garden, 16 Garden Lane, Northampton, (413) 585-2740.

— Kristin Palpini