Microseason: Prunella Withers

As June deepens and days stretch to their longest Japan enters the microseason Prunella Withers (aka Self Heal Wilt) 乃東枯 Natsukarekusa karuru. In 2026, this micro season is on from June 21st to June 25th. It is the first micro season of the solar term "Summer Solstice". 

Of the 72 micro seasons, the Japanese is one of the most difficult to read. The term consists of "Natsukarekusa", Prunella Vulgaris, and "Karuru", to wither. Prunella Vulgaris, pictured, is known as Self Heal in some places. Prunella Vulgaris is a type of low, creeping wildflower with violet blooms. The microseason is called "Prunella Withers" because at this time of year it starts to wither, just as the heat and humidity rise. 

During this micro-season the seasonal energy shifts downward, and plants begin to conserve strength as the summer intensifies. Despite being the start of summer true, the days will now slowly start to shorten again. Fields sit in pause between planting and harvest and we start to feel the temperature rise.