The national flower of Korea is the mugunghwa or called Rose of Sharon. Every year from June to October a profusion of mugunghwa blossoms graces the entire country. Unlike most flowers, the mugunghwa is remarkably tenacious and is able to withstand both blight and insects. The flower's symbolic significance stems from mugunghwa's root word, "mugung, " meaning immortality. This word accurately reflects the perseverance and determination of the Korean people that has been demonstrated throughout their long history.