Shishi (志士), sometimes known as Ishin Shishi (維新志士), were a group of Japanese political activists of the late Edo period. The term shishi translates as 'men of high purpose'.[1] While it is usually applied to the anti-shogunate, pro-sonnō jōi (尊皇攘夷; 'Revere the Emperor, Expel the Barbarian[s]') samurai primarily from the southwestern clans of Satsuma, Chōshū, and Tosa, the term shishi is also used by some with reference to supporters of the shogunate who held similar sonnō jōi views.
There were many different varieties of shishi. Some, such as the assassins Kawakami Gensai, Nakamura Hanjirō, Okada Izō, and Tanaka Shinbei, opted for a more violent approach in asserting their views. Kawakami Gensai, in particular, is recalled as the assassin of Sakuma Shōzan, a renowned pro-Western thinker of the time.[2] Several assaults on westerners in Japan have been attributed to the shishi and associated rōnin warriors. In a 2013 article, these assassins have been called 'early terrorists' (German: frühe Terroristen) since they opted to spread terror among the foreigners.[3] Other more radical shishi, such as Miyabe Teizō, plotted large-scale attacks with little regard for public safety. Miyabe himself was one of the ringleaders of the plot, foiled by the Shinsengumi at the Ikedaya Incident, to burn Kyoto at the height of the Gion Festival.[2]
As mentioned above, shishi were not necessarily in support of bringing down the shogunate. Shishi from Mito were responsible for the death of the shogunal grand councilorIi Naosuke, who was a signatory to treaties that favored foreign nations, and who had placed an underaged boy on the shogunal throne. Other Mito men and women arose in the Tengutō Rebellion, over the next several years. While these were definitely actions against the shōgun's government, they did not oppose the shōgun himself—indeed, the Mito shishi, who were retainers of a relative of the shōgun, believed they were only helping him.[4]
Other shishi had more scholastic leanings. A prime example of this was the scholar Yoshida Shōin of Chōshū. He founded the Shokason-juku school, and educated many of the future government leaders of Meiji eraJapan. Yoshida had connections to many prominent figures of the Bakumatsu era: Kawai Tsugunosuke, Katsu Kaishū, the aforementioned Sakuma Shōzan, and others.[citation needed]
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The more radical shishi from Chōshū and Satsuma went on to form the core leadership of the nascent Meiji Government. Some, such as Itō Hirobumi and Yamagata Aritomo, remained prominent figures in Japanese politics and society until the early decades of the 20th century.[5]
If you’re looking for an evergreen bush that adds some shine to your landscaping, give the Shi Shi Gashira Camellia a shot. Ideal for warmer areas, this bush will give you year-round color and an extra layer of depth when sunlight reflects off its glossy leaves.
Growing an average of 4’-5’ tall, the Shi Shi Gashira Camellia produces a large spread, spanning around 6’-8’. Typically blooming in the fall and winter months, the bush produces vibrant pink flowers to go along with its dark green foliage. This bush is fantastic for creating hedges, thrives in mass plantings, and also works well in woodland gardens where large trees tower over shade plants.
Needing only filtered sun, these bushes are also capable of enduring abundant sunlight as well. Ensure the plant gets a moderate amount of water, but make sure the area is adequately drained, as consistent moisture is important. Pruning is necessary after flowering – doing so will help control the size and shape of these bushes. And as long as soil quality is relatively good, the Shi Shi Gashira Camellia is more than capable of flourishing. Choose a protected area for these bushes, as dry, cold winds can damage the buds and flowers.
When it comes to spacing, there’s no set rule for this plant. For normal use, allow for 6’-8’ between bushes. If they’re going to be used for privacy or wind protection, decrease the distance down to 5’-7’.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 7-10 |
Flower Color(s): Pink |
Bloom Period: Fall through Winter |
Foliage Color(s): Dark Green |
Light Exposure: Filtered Sun |
Height: 4-5 Feet |
Spread: 6-8 Feet |
Habit: Spreading |
Watering: Medium |
Features: Cool Season Flowers |
Scientific Name: Camellia sasanqua 'Shishi Gashira' |
Common Name: Shishi Gashira Camellia |
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Plant Addicts guarantees your plant(s) will arrive happy and healthy, but the plant(s) are being shipped through the mail and accidents happen. If the plant is dead, has dried out roots or the incorrect item was shipped just notify Plant Addicts within 3 days upon delivery. We may ask for pictures but will try to make it as easy as possible for you. Please note plant(s) with damaged branches or wilted leaves will not qualify for this guarantee. Plants are very resilient and will rebound quickly when cared for correctly.
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The warranty is purchased on a per plant basis and must be purchased at the same time as the plant purchase. We will cover 100% of the price of the plant but the warranty does not cover shipping cost. Simply let us know if your plant has died within one year of receiving it and we’ll get you a new one shipped out. We may ask for photos for documentation purposes but again we’ll try to make it as easy as possible.
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Standard Colors: 2-3 business days
Special Order Colors: 8 weeks - this is due to the planter being custom made with the color(s) of your choice
Please Note: On special orders there can not be any cancellations
Time of Order:
Summer Shipping
Once your plant is shipped you’ll receive an email with tracking information. Depending on the above criteria we’ll ship your plant(s) towards beginning of the following week from your order. We put together this helpful guide of what to do when you receive your plants in the mail.
It is important to know that all of our plants are clearly labeled for which growing zones the plant can survive in. The plants are thoroughly trialed and tested in every growing zone before we state the plant can grow in a zone. Again, our #1 priority is to ship the plants to you healthy and ready to thrive in your location. So we will do everything in our power to do so.