A to Z Challenge 2020
Things to be Grateful For
is for Amaryllis
A few weeks ago, I planted an amaryllis bulb. I knew it
would have a beautiful flower, but the timing of that flower was just right. It
came into bloom 10 days ago.
The amaryllis has a rather confusing name. Amaryllis is the
common name for flowers of the genus Hippeastrum which is the name you will
usually see if you wish to purchase a bulb, but it is the name amaryllis which
has real significance.
The Greek name Amaryllis means “to sparkle”.
Greek mythology tells of a shy, timid nymph. Amaryllis who fell
in love with Alteo, a shepherd with Hercules' strength as handsome as Apollo. This
man only loved flowers. He said that he
would love the woman who brought him a blossoming plant and that’s when
Amaryllis dressed up in white and stood at Alteo’s door every night for 30
nights. During these visits, she pierced
her heart using a golden arrow. When
Alteo opened the door on the 30th night, he found a beautiful red flower that
came from the blood of Amaryllis’s heart.
Thus the flower symbolises beauty and love. But the Victorians also saw it as a sign of determination,
strength and success, due to the plant’s height and sturdiness.
I love this flower. And such a beautiful bloom! :) We used to have them when I was little, and I was always excited to see them open.
ReplyDeleteHappy A to Z! :)
The Multicolored Diary
This flower is the signal that spring is coming! I always forget mine in the garage, away from light and water when they wilt, and they are still alive, and blooming so beautifully year after year!
ReplyDeleteAren’t they wonderful? Bloom upon bloom upon bloom, a bright spot through winter.
ReplyDelete