Is giving potted plants as a gift a no-no in Japan?

[NoFlysOnMe]

We have been invited to lunch by the parents of one of DD1's friend's from school. The mother is Japanese. I would like to take her a pot of those miniature daffodils as a gift.

Is there any reason why this would be frowned upon in Japan. As opposed to taking cut flowers for example?

bump

bump - anyone?

I heard somewhere that rooted plants are a sign of longevity in japanese culture. So a big no-no where the recipient is ill, but prob ideal for a potential friend.

I'm no expert though!

I think it'd be fine (this is dredging my memory), but iirc the presentation of gifts is quite important, so wrap the pot in a sheet of wrapping paper or drop in a gift bag.

And present it modestly and with both hnads (like in most of Asia) - 'oh, this old thing? No, it's nothing' rather than 'see what lovely things I have brought!'

aha, this is more detailed

don;t forget to take off your shoes,
and have fun!

chopstheduck - that's good then as she is a new friend. She sent a little posy of flowers for me with her DD whan she came to my DD's birthday which I though was a lovely gesture as in effect it is the anniversary of me becoming a mother too!

MrsB - Will get a gift bag, had already thought to take our slippers tho' I tend to do that anyway as you never know...
That's a good link too, thanks!

She hasn't lived here long but is quite westernised so hopefully she will understand the spirit in what I say or do...iyswim

Thanks!