Story of the Narcissus

Oh those Greek gods, they thought they could make us believe anything! All the time they got up to all kinds of hanky-panky too, but they're not going to put me off Narcissi, most beautiful flowers, nor will I start feeling sorry for Echo's! Interesting stories, but people must have been very naive in those long ago days. What about the poor guy (Dido, I think) who was turned into a waterfall?
Its interesting though how all sorts of everyday names of things originated.

I think so to mad... mind you still some pretty nieve ppl around today, I do like the stories though and I do like my Narcissus too thay are beautiful flowers... but i see no harm in a bit of hanky panky :D

I like these stories. But I love to see the narcissi in the spring. They don't remind me of selfishness at all lol

I know they dont exactly scream selfishness do they... I love seeing them in spring you know its really spring

What a great story Lishy, got any more great stuff.8~))

THE HISTORY OF THE IRIS

The history of the iris flower seems to go very far back. In addition to being the personification of color, the Greek Goddess Iris was also thought to be the messenger of love. The flowers themselves have since served as one of the many symbols of this particular emotion. These flowers have also found their way into a variety of art and architecture. For example, they have been carved into stones in Egypt; in 1987 Vincent van Gogh’s ‘Irises’ set a record by becoming one of the most sought after and expensive paintings ever sold. As well as creating an artistic flair, the iris flower is connected with everything from the French monarchy – as well as being the emblem for New Orleans – by way of the Fleur-de-lis, to folk remedies, to cosmetics and even enhancing the flavor of wines. In small doses this flower is said to help cure glandular problems, skin discoloration, and some chronic diseases. It has also long been used to create perfumes, linens sprays and skin creams.

As with any of the more colorful variety of flowers, each hue of the iris bloom has its own particular meaning. When giving these flowers as a gift, it is always nice to know what message you may be conveying. Unlike roses or similar flowers, yellow irises are considered a sign of passion; a blue or purple iris can denote royalty and wisdom; white, purity and kindness. These flowers are also great gifts for those who were born in February, or those who are celebrating a 25th wedding anniversary as these are a symbol for both occasions. Since presentation is very important, it is good to know that these beautiful yet tough flowers can either be clipped and presented in a fresh bouquet, or given as potted plant that can be kept for years to come.

"THE VERBENA STORY",,
The verbena flower is sometimes referred to as the “Holy Herb” or “Herb of the Cross,” as it was said to be one of the blossoms used to curb the bleeding of Jesus after he was taken down from the cross. This is only one of the many folkloric tales and remedies that cite the verbena flower. In Egypt the blossom was said to have sprouted from the tears of the fertility goddess, Isis; Hippocrates stated that verbena was a great curative for plague and fever, while the court physician of the emperor of Rome considered it to be of great use for pharyngeal tumors. Today, this flower is still considered a highly useful cure to at least 30 different ailments. When used as a poultice, it is thought to be effective in soothing ear aches, arthritis pains and headaches; as a decoction it can be used for anything from cleansing the body to curing gum disease. Verbena flowers are also frequently used when treating feminine ailments; however, many people warn against the use of this flower in any form by pregnant women, as it is considered to be a strong emmenagogue, and may cause preterm labor. As well as being widely used for medicinal purposes, this plant is said to be a very refreshing garnishment, as well as being boiled into teas or crushed into sorbets.,,

"THE BLUEBELL"
In 1981, the bluebell flower officially became a protected plant under the Wildlife and Countryside Act in the United Kingdom. This legislation is meant to protect the wild-grown varieties of bluebell from becoming extinct in the future, and it has – as of 1998 – become illegal for landowners to remove these blossoms and bulbs from their land for the purpose of trade. It is understandable why those living in the United Kingdom would want to save these flowers – not only are they lovely, but they have become a part of the culture and myth of the area. The bluebell flower has long had a connection with fairy life. It is thought that growing a garden full of bluebells is an invitation to them, and creating wreaths of this blossom – which you would place on an alter – puts you in their favor. On the other hand, it is said that trampling over a bluebell will make the fairies angry, and thus you may find yourself maimed or ill. It is also believed that fairies are able to ring the bell of this flower so as to call to one another. If a mortal were to hear this ringing, however, they would find themselves in grave danger of being kidnapped or killed by the fairy folk. Although all parts of these plants are considered toxic, many still feel that they have some strong medicinal properties. It is thought to be a diuretic and styptic, which has traditionally been used to cure snake bites. Research is also being done on this plant, as it is thought to be a potential treatment for cancer and HIV.

The bluebell flower was once associated with death; however, in more modern times these blooms are thought to represent gratitude and humility. They are often given as gifts to say “thank you,” or to express a humble appreciation of someone in either love or friendship.

they're nice ones teddygirl... I love the bluebell one especially... I know they used to believe that bluebells grew only on the graves of innocent pure people and a good sign they had ascended into heaven...