The Three Friends of Winter, also known as Suihan Sanyou, are the pine, bamboo, and plum. The pine, bamboo and plum do not wither as the cold days deepen into the winter season unlike many other plants, which was noted by the Chinese. Together they symbolize steadfastness, perseverance, and resilience. They are highly regarded in Confucianism and as such represent the scholar-gentleman's ideal.