Lily of the Valley – Convallaria majalis - Liljekonvalj
I found these growing along the fence of a garden I happened to be passing.
They also grow wild, but it’s not the kind of flower that you find “everywhere”.
It is also known as Our Lady's tears or Mary’s tears. One legend states that Mary's tears turned to lily of the valley when she cried at the crucifixion of Jesus.
In religious paintings it is a symbol of humility.
In the "language of flowers", it signifies the return of happiness.
Lily of the valley has been used for medicinal purposes. It is believed to strengthen memory, to restore speech and as a liquor smeared on the forehead and the back of the neck, to make one have good common sense. Careful, though - despite its alleged powers, the plant is poisonous. (I remember being told as a child to wash my hands after I had picked these fragrant flowers.)
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3 comments:
So sweet and old fashioned looking! Such tiny flowers for such big leaves!! I don't think I've seen any around here, although I know we have them. I love it when you include the folklore and legends!
they are beautiufl and they do look like tear drops
Dawn Treader...I have of course often heard of "lily of the valley" but have never seen it...thanks! I need to spread some of "that" on MY neck right now!
Thanks for the thoughts on Dad...I know you have had some of these same issues as well...it takes it's toll.
Dan
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