The white magnolia is the flower of Shanghai. [Photo/CFP]

The white magnolia was approved as the flower of Shanghai by the Standing Committee of the Shanghai Municipal People's Congress in 1986. As a magnolia species, the white magnolia blossoms in early spring with big, spotless white petals pointing upward. It was chosen as a symbol of the pioneering and aspiring spirit of Shanghai's people.

The emblem of Shanghai. [Photo/tjj.sh.gov.cn]

The city's emblem design was approved by the Standing Committee of the Shanghai Municipal People's Congress in 1990. It is a triangular symbol consisting of a white magnolia flower, a large sand junk, or Chinese boat, and a propeller. The triangle emblem is in the form of a ship propeller, symbolising the continuous advancement of the city. In the middle of the emblem, a large sand junk with its sail set is one of the oldest vessels plying the waters of Shanghai Port and represents the city's long history as a port city. The large sand junk is set against a white magnolia flower blossoming in early spring to symbolise the energy and vitality of Shanghai.

Source: Shanghai Almanac 2023