Gardening tales: Storied plants and the folklore behind them

Stories from the Garden: Plants with interesting histories and the tales that go along with them

When we put our hands in the dirt and help little plants grow we are not just gardening but also connecting with the stories that come with each one. Telling stories while being in nature gives us special tales that make our gardens better and help us feel closer to our plants. In this post we will explore some interesting tales and legends about plants that you might actually have growing in your garden.

A Smelly Guardian

Lavender has a nice smell and beautiful purple flowers which make it more than just a nice plant in your garden. In the past people thought that lavender could keep bad spirits away. The old Romans used it as a charm for protection and during the Middle Ages people believed its fragrant smoke could purify the air from the plague. These days lavender isn't used as much as a good luck charm but people still love it for how it looks and how it helps them relax.

The plant that helps you remember things

Rosemary has been linked to memory for a long time. Ancient Greeks used to wear it in their hair when they took tests to help them remember things. It has also been part of funeral ceremonies as a way to honor those who have passed. This tough plant is believed to do really well in gardens where the woman in charge takes the lead. It might be true or not but rosemary is still a common herb in kitchens and some studies say it can help with memory.

The finding of Digitalis

The tall spikes of foxglove flowers look really impressive but they come with some hidden dangers that people should be aware of. Foxgloves used to be called "Witch's Glove" because people believed they had some kind of magic. People say that fairies made these gloves for foxes so they could sneak into chicken coops without making a sound. The true wonder of the plant is found in how it is used in medicine. Digitalis comes from the foxglove plant and is an important medicine for the heart.

The person who makes wishes come true

People usually think of dandelions as annoying weeds but they actually have a special spot in stories and traditions. Kids' stories tell us to puff the soft white seeds off a dried dandelion and make a wish which makes dandelions a sign of hope and good vibes. Its strong roots help it survive tough conditions showing how it can bounce back and keep going.

The Holy Healer

People have valued elderberry bushes for their healing qualities for a long time. Folklore says that if you cut down an elderberry bush you might upset the spirits that live there and this could bring you bad luck or trouble. People still like to drink teas and syrups made from elderberries because they believe it helps their immune system and keeps the idea of the plant as a healer going strong.

The Bloom of Wealth and Respect

In some Eastern cultures like in China peonies are seen as signs of wealth and respect and they also represent good luck. In Chinese mythology peonies are often seen as symbols of wealth and luxury and they are sometimes called the "King of Flowers." Sometimes these bright flowers appear in wedding bouquets and spring gardens. They make our surroundings look nice and also reflect the diverse cultures they come from.

Looking into the stories about these plants makes gardening feel more special and connects us to those who came before us. The old stories tied to our gardens make us think about more than just how pretty or useful the plants are. They push us to connect with the tales that are just as grounded as the plants we see.