Bluebell Flowers - Pictures & Meanings

The bluebell flower – which is often confused with the hyacinth – is native to the British Isles, as well as Belgium, the Netherlands and areas of France. It is a member of the hyacinthaceae family, and is a spring growing, perennial plant that has been subject to extensive hybridization. The flowers grow from long, slender stems that typically nod in one direction. The blossoms themselves are actinomorphic, meaning they have a distinctive bell shape, which is generally a deep blue, or purple blue shade. The hybrids of this flower may have upright stems, flowers blooming on both sides of the stem, and may be seen in colors of creamy white or pink. Unlike the wild growing variety of the bluebell flower – which commonly has bright white or yellow stamens – the hybrid types may have cyan or blue stamens.

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.

Bloodroot Flower - Pictures & Meanings

The bloodroot flower is a species of herbaceous perennial that belongs to the sanguinaria genus. This genus contains only a single species and is a member of the papaveraceae family. These plants, which grow their best in rich soil and well-shaded areas, grow in abundance within Canada and eastern portions of the United States. The bloodroot flower’s name was derived from the thick red sap that seeps from the rhizome. The flower itself consists of eight to twelve white, oblong-shaped petals which surround distinctive golden yellow stamens at the center. The leaves of this flower – which are actually a single large leaf that develops at the base of the flower head – has a clasping, cape-like appearance which is used to protect the plant by closing around the head at night, and shading it when it begins to bear fruit.

Although the bloodroot flower is largely considered to be toxic, it has long been used to treat a number of ailments. Many North American tribes used this plant for a variety of reasons, from medicine to dye making. For generations, the bloodroot – which was also referred to as puccoon – has been used to create salves, poultices, pastes and powders. These concoctions are used to treat everything from oral infections, ward off the onset of gangrene, and to cure tumors, warts and polyps. In modern times, the bloodroot flower is widely thought to be a powerful anticancer agent. Although cancer patients have been treated with this plant for over 150 years, it is only recently that it has come under investigation for its long-known potential as a curative. In addition to its promising medicinal uses, the bloodroot flower is also attached to folklore and superstition. A Cherokee myth states that a tiny piece of the root should be carried at all times so as to ward off wicked spirits. On the other hand, an unmarried man of the Ponca tribe could rub the plant against his palm and hold the hand of his beloved; within the week, she would be his.

Since bloodroot flowers can cause an allergic reaction to the skin, it is not advisable to give them within a bouquet. However, as a gift, these blossoms look beautiful when presented in a decorative pot or dried and placed into a number of arrangements. As a symbol, bloodroots are thought to represent protective love, purification and healing, as well as strength and growth. As a gift, these blooms can be given to represent a wish for the recipient to get well after an illness, tell them you love them, or simply wish them the best for their life.

Bleeding Heart Flower - Pictures & Meanings

Despite the fact that the rose is classically considered the ultimate floral symbol of romance, the bleeding heart flower is quickly catching up. One glance at the distinctive heart shape of these blossoms and you will understand why. Bleeding hearts belong to the small dicentra genus, which is a member of the fumariaceae family. These blossoms, which are herbaceous perennials, are native to regions of North America and eastern Asia. Bleeding hearts generally reach 2 to 3 feet in both height and width. Their thick, arching stems contain long divided leaves that are dark green with faintly red veins. The flowers themselves hang like pendants from the stems, and are made up of two small sepals; two joined and perfectly straight inner petals; and two ballooned or spurred external petals. Although dicentra spectabilis – one of the most common species of bleeding hearts – only comes in colors of white and dark pink, other species may be seen in rose, dusky lilac, or even a faint, peachy pink hue.

Because of its characteristic shape, the bleeding heart flower is at the center of many folkloric tales. One of the best known stories – which has many variations – is generally told directly through the anatomy of the plant itself. This story tells of a prince who tries to win the heart of a beautiful maiden by giving her gifts. With each gift, two of the petals are removed. Despite his attempts, the maiden continues to refuse the prince, and so he pierces himself through the heart – the heart having been formed with the discarded petals, the knife with the green stamen. The essence of the bleeding heart flower is said to open up and strengthen the heart chakra, which in turn causes a person to feel emotionally soothed and open to the possibility of new romance. It is thought to be especially useful after a heartbreak. These blossoms are also frequently used in love spells. One such spell includes braiding the flowers into your hair, lighting a white candle in honor of the goddess of love, and reciting a poem or incantation.

Although they may not be as common as other blooms, the bleeding heart flower can make a great romantic gift. These blossoms are almost exclusively considered a symbol of undying love, and are frequently given at weddings and special milestones like anniversaries or birthdays. These flowers make for a unique, stunning bouquet, but can also be given in gift baskets or as single-bud tokens of affection.

Blazing Star Flowers - Pictures & Meanings

Liatris – better known by its common name, the blazing star flower – is a genus of about 37 species in the extensive asteraceae family. These blossoms are native to areas of the Bahamas and Mexico, but may be seen growing in abundance in the eastern portions of the United States. These flowers burst forth from feathery stalks that grow up to 4 feet in height. The heads of these blossoms are made up entirely of disc florets, and – unlike many other blooms – have no ray flowers, and develop in hues of white, rosy purple or fuchsia. Growing these flowers may take some patience, as they can take two to three years to become fully established, and they blossom their best in full sunlight, and moist, fertile soil.

The blazing star flower is considered a terrific garden plant, not only because of its beautiful and unusual appearance, but because it adds a splash of color to more muted blossoms when used as a border plant. It is also considered very enticing to splendid insect life, such as Swallowtail and Monarch butterflies, as well as bees – who serve to pollinate the plant. While these flowers may attract insects, they are often avoided by deer and rabbits, as their bitter flavor is unappealing to these animals – which is yet another reason why they are most commonly planted at garden borders. Certain species of the blazing star flower – liatris scariosa, liatris squarrosa and liatris odoratissima, to name a few – are thought to have some mild medicinal properties. For example, these plants are said to treat painful or delayed menstruation; they can be boiled and gargled to treat sore throats, or swallowed to help relieve colic, back pains and weakness. These plants also act as a diuretic and stimulant. Despite their medicinal properties, many people feel that the consumption of some species should be avoided. One such example is that of liatris spicata, which has an enticing vanilla scent, but has been banned as an additive, as some studies have shown that it may be toxic. Other species, such as the liatris ohlingerae, are considered endangered and are protected by their regions of growth – in this case, Florida.

As a symbol, the blazing star flower is said to be representative of satisfaction, bliss and happiness. These blossoms are frequently given as romantic gifts to express the joy that the giver feels in their relationship with the recipient. They are often given on anniversaries, Valentine’s Day or other special, romantic occasions.

Bitterroot Flower - Pictures & Meanings

The bitterroot flower belongs to the small lewisia genus and is a member of the portulacaceae family. Bitterroots – which are the state flower of Montana – are low growing perennial plants with short, leafless stems and large, cheerful heads. Each stem sprouts a single 2 inch head which is made up of six to nine unequal and overlapping sepals, as well as roughly fifteen petals and about five linear bracts. Their colors range from a muted, rosy pink to a bright, creamy white. Given that these plants are well known for their ability to be revived after exposure to harsh, dry conditions, it is not surprising that they often grow their best in full sun and sandy soil.

The bitterroot flower gets its scientific name – lewisia rediviva – from two distinct sources. The word “rediviva” refers to the plant’s ability to restore its fresh, vibrant beauty, even after a long drought. As for the “lewisia,” that comes from the plant’s collector, Meriwether Lewis. Although Lewis may have been given credit for the discovery of the bitterroot flower, it had actually been in use for many years by several Native American tribes. One of its uses was as an important food staple – mainly as a filler in meat patties and mixed plates. The roots of these plants were most often boiled into a thick, slightly bitter jelly-like paste. It was also sometimes dried and ground so that it could be used to thicken stews. In addition to their use in the culinary realm, bitterroot flowers also have some interesting home remedy applications. For instance, the roots can be turned into poultices, powders or eaten raw to help treat everything from sore throats and skin wounds, to low breast milk and pleurisy.

As well as being a symbol of pride to Montanans, the bitterroot flower is also the ultimate icon for re-birth and resurrection of spirit. This is no shock given that these plants are said to be capable of living through an entire year without a drop of water. As a gift, these plants are fantastic when given to represent a new start – whether in a relationship, a new job, or even a long-distance move. Because of their short stems, it is uncommon to see these blossoms in a large bouquet; however, they can easily be presented in small nosegays or boutonnieres. They may also given in a low, small vase or growing straight from a pot.
Bitterroot Flower Pictures

Bird of Paradise Flowers - Pictures & Meanings

The genus strelitzia – more commonly known as the bird of paradise, or crane flower – contains five perennial species, and is a native of South Africa. These strong, hardy plants can grow anywhere from 4 to 6 and ½ feet in height and bear large, thick leaves that are similar in appearance to its musaceae family sister, the banana leaf. The bird of paradise flower grows from a thick spathe, and is made up of three bright orange and three deep blue petals – two of which are fused together to create a spade-like appearance. All of these combined features are said to give the appearance of the beak and plumage of a colorful bird in flight.

Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, who was an avid botanist, led the way to discovering the bird of paradise flower, and thus, the genus was named in her honor. But this small piece of history is only a tiny part of the flower’s vibrant existence. For instance, the bird of paradise flower has become the focal point of many artists. The bright hues and exotic features of these flowers have made their way into the work of famous and independent painters such as Pam Houle, Marshall White and Derek McCrea.

The bird of paradise flower has come to symbolize many things. To some they are a symbol of freedom and joy. To others they are the emblem for paradise itself, while other people feel that they are the perfect representation of a good and clear perspective on life. When given as a romantic gift, these flowers are often thought to mean faithfulness. This is not surprising, as they are also commonly given on the 9th wedding anniversary. Despite the variety of meaning that these flowers hold, they are mostly given for their unusual beauty alone. These flowers look fantastic by themselves or bundled into bouquets of a variety of blooms. For something a little different you can also create a basket filled with flowers and equally exotic goodies.

Bindweed Flower - Pictures & Meanings

Convolvulus – better known as the bindweed flower – is a genus of roughly 250 plants, and is a member of the convolvulaceae family. These cosmopolitan plants, though simple in appearance, are quite varied in structure and growing habits. For instance, they may grow in woody shrubs, from vines or bines; they may be either perennial or annual. Although some species can grow out of control and become weeds that choke out other plants, most types can easily be trained and grown in gardens. The stems of the bindweed flower are very slender and flexible, and contain spiral arrangements of medium-green leaves. Much like the common morning glory – which bindweeds are closely related to – these blossoms have velvety, trumpet-like heads that may appear in muted shades of white, pink and lilac, or brighter hues of blue, purple or yellow.

Although the bindweed flower can be something of a pest at times, people are becoming increasingly aware of its usefulness. A thick, sticky resin can be derived from the milky-white juice that flows naturally through the roots. The resin is usually hardened and used as a potent purgative. The flowers themselves are also considered a very effective laxative and diuretic when made into a tea. This tea can also be used to clean damaged skin, sooth a fever, and lessen the blood flow of menorrhagia. In addition to medicinal uses, the bindweed flower has a number of other useful applications. For instance, the petals, when dried, take on a dark, delicate appearance that can easily be fit into a vintage art project; the thin vines can also be used in art projects, as they are tough enough to double as a glossy twine in floral arrangements; a natural green dye can be extracted from the entire plant; and the stalks and roots can be eaten. When eaten raw, these plants tend to have a slightly bitter aftertaste; however, when the plants and young shoots are steamed, they are said to develop a mild, sweet flavor.

As a gift, the bindweed flower is most commonly associated with family. Because of its twining habits, it is often associated with attachment; because it grows in such abundance, it is also associated with fertility. These flowers may be given in small bundles, but are most frequently presented in the form of garlands. These blossoms are usually given to mothers and fathers on special occasions, but are sometimes given as a simple, beautiful token of appreciation to the giver’s grandparents, children or even siblings.