Flocking to flowers

A growing number of people visit Beijing's parks to enjoy the colorful blossoms of mountain peaches, apricots and cherries.

They used an app to identify species after snapping photos.

Botanist Shi Jun says: "Parents should learn about the species beforehand so they can teach their kids. If children ask a tough question, they should tell them they don't know the answer rather than pretending."

The Beijinger founded Corn Lab, which popularizes science among children on social media.

He also films short videos introducing plant species.

"Chinese have over the past decade increasingly come to appreciate cherry blossoms, most varieties of which come from Japan," Shi says.

"They're gorgeous in full bloom ... and offer novelty compared with flowers Chinese previously enjoyed."

Ancient people preferred plum and peach blossoms. Peonies were particularly popular in the Tang Dynasty (618-907).

Chinese today prefer roses and lilies.

"We have more species than before since many like hyacinths and tulips have been introduced from around the world," Shi says.

He recommends people take a moment to notice the ubiquitous small flowers on roadsides, such as purple Chinese violets.