Hydrangeas
· The hydrangea is a genus of about 70-75 species native to southern and eastern Asia and North and South America.
· They are common in the Azores Islands of Portugal, also known as the blue island due to the vast number of hydrangeas growing on the island.
· The hydrangea was first discovered in Japan, although the name comes from the Greek word “hydro” meaning water, and “angos” meaning jar. Roughly this can be translated as water barrel which refers to the need for hydrangeas need for a lot of water.
· The hydrangeas color can range from pink and purple, to blue, and also white. It all depends on the acidity level in the soil.
· Opinions differ on the symbolic nature of the hydrangea. Some believe it is symbolic of vanity and boastfulness, while others suggest that receiving a bouquet of hydrangeas expresses gratefulness. And although there are variations on symbolism most will agree that it is a beautiful flower.
Iris
· The Iris is a genus of about 300 species of flowering plants that gets its name from the Greek word rainbow. It’s meaning is taken due to the large factor that there are so many different colors found among the different species.
· The Iris is found mainly throughout the north temperate zone; their habitats varying considerably ranging from cold regions, meadowlands, steam banks, and in the middle East and Northern Africa, Asia, and North America.
· There is a deep legend behind the Iris flower dating back to Ancient Greece. It is believed that the goddess Iris, who was personified as the rainbow acted as the link between heaven and earth. Purple Iris’s were then planted over the graves of dead women to summon the goddess Iris to help guide them on their way to heaven.
· Their national symbol is the fleur-de-lis
· They are also the February birth flower and the 25th wedding anniversary flower.
· Iris’s are the state flower of Tennessee and symbolize faith, valor, and wisdom.
Lilacs
· Lilacs are known as shrubs or small trees that can range in size from 2-10m tall.
· The original color of the Lilac flower is a shade of purple but they can also be found in whites and pinks.
· Lilac’s are known for their strong fragrance and generally bloom between mid spring and early summer, depending on the species.
· Another name for the Lilac is the Syringa. It’s story, according to Greek mythology begins with a beautiful nymph with that very same name. Pan, the god of the forests and fields becomes captivated by her beauty and chases her through the forest. Syringa becomes frightened and turns herself into an aromatic bush known as the lilac bush.
· Lilac is the state flower in the state of New Hampshire.
· It symbolizes character
· The Lilac is the 8th wedding anniversary flower
· It is also believed that purple lilacs are symbolic of the first emotions of love and white lilacs symbolize youthful innocence.
Lily
· The lily dates back to the late 1500’s BC when images were discovered in Crete. They were well known majestic flowers and played a large role in ancient mythology.
· It’s name is derived from the word “leiron” and was believed to have sprouted from the queen of gods called Hera.
· The white lily is symbolic of chastity and virtue.
· Many other lilies have become popular besides the white lily and have additional symbolic meanings as well. Peruvian lilies represent friendship and devotion; white stargazer lilies represent wealth and prosperity.
· Lilies are also most often associated with funerals.