By Tim Lambert
Daffodils are native to the Mediterranean region. The Romans brought them to Britain. The Romans also introduced roses into Britain. It’s not certain why daffodils are the symbol of Wales. It may be because they start to flower at the beginning of Spring, coinciding with St David’s Day, 1st March.
Lilies have been grown in Europe since ancient times. In the Middle Ages, they were a symbol of purity and were associated with the Virgin Mary.
Tulips were introduced into Holland from Turkey in 1562. Tulips were first recorded in England in 1578.
Marigolds were introduced into Europe by the Spanish. Since they were often used to decorate statues of the Virgin Mary, Marigolds became known as Mary’s golds.
Sunflowers are also native to the Americas. The Spanish introduced them into Europe.
8 May is National Iris Day. This flower is named after Iris, the Greek goddess of the rainbow. Iris roots were used in cough remedies and to treat skin conditions. Its roots have also been used for centuries to make perfume. The Native Americans used Iris leaves to make rope.
23 June is National Pink Day. The word pink was originally the name of a flower, dianthus. It came to mean the colour of the flower.
A daisy was once called a day’s eye because the flower’s petals open at dawn and close at dusk.
Cowslips were once called cow slops because they grew near piles of cow dung. When I was a child, I used to think they must be slippery and cows must slip up on them.
The Romans had a festival called Floralia at the end of April and the beginning of May, but there is no evidence that it has any connection with our modern Mayday celebrations. It was held in honor of Flora the goddess of flowers.
On Mayday, people picked wildflowers and used flower garlands to decorate their homes.
In 16th-century England, spinning was banned because it was the most common occupation for women, and flowers were placed around the spinning wheels.
In 1637, Amye Everard became the first woman in England to be granted a patent. It was for a tincture of saffron and essence of roses.
The first Chelsea Flower Show opened on 19 May 1913. It was a three-day event. It was a great success, drawing about 200,000 visitors.
Radio One started on 30 September 1967. The first song was Flowers in the Rain by the Move.
