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Interesting Facts About the Lily Flower
Interesting Facts About the Lily Flower. The lily, a flower revered by several cultures throughout history, has been used for symbolic and medicinal purposes, according to the Flowers & Plants Association. While several varieties produce bright colors, the famous "Madonna Lily" only blooms white.
The lily, a flower revered by several cultures throughout history, has been used for symbolic and medicinal purposes, according to the Flowers & Plants Association. While several varieties produce bright colors, the famous "Madonna Lily" only blooms white.
Cultivation History
People have cultivated the lily for at least three millennia. Ancient Chinese and Assyrians revered the flower. Until the 1500s, however, the Madonna Lily remained the only known variety of the plant outside of Asia.
Symbolism
To the ancient Greeks, the lily stood for tenderness, while early Christians used the lily as a symbol of purity. Oddly, the famous "lily" portrayed in France's "fleur de lys" heraldry, first adopted by the French court in 1179, actually depicts an iris.
Medicinal Uses
Chinese folk medicine included lilies in remedies to bring good luck. Europeans also have used lilies in medicinal preparations throughout history. Lilies seemed to have some effect against depression and ingestion of toxins.
Pet Toxicity
While lilies may add elegance to a garden, they contain compounds that act as a deadly poison on cats. Homeowners should prevent their cats from going near lilies at all times.
