The word flower comes from the Old French word “flor” or “flour”. The importance of flowers in nature is everywhere. They can feed insects, birds, animals and humans, they provide natural medicines for humans and some animals and aid in a plant’s reproduction by enticing outside pollinators. Without flowers, plants would merely be green, and the world would be a duller place. The arrangement of plant materials truly became an art and an important decorative device in the 17th century. During this period of worldwide exploration, colonization, and commerce, new plants were introduced into Europe, where an avid interest in horticulture developed. A recent study found that flowers improve emotional health, making people feel instantly happy when they receive flowers from a loved one! All of the participants in the study showed “true” or “excited” smiles when they received flowers, showing extreme happiness and gratitude. Flowers make you feel happier for longer.
Some Fun Flower Facts :
- In 17th Century Holland, Tulip bulbs were more valuable than gold! The flower symbolized immortality, life and love. In 1630’s a kind of frenzy for tulips occurred in Western Europe named “Tulip mania” and tulips became so expensive as to be treated as a form of currency. Tulips lifespan is very short, being 3 to 7 days.
- It is said, that the Sunflower head track’s the sun’s movement. The Sunflower head is actually made of many tiny flowers called florets. Sunflower seeds are rich in oil, which they store as a source of energy and food; its seeds are crushed to produce sunflower oil for cooking.
- Roses are related to apples, raspberries, cherries, peaches, plums, nectarines, pears and almonds. Rose hips (the berry-like fruit structure of rose) of some species of rose are amongst the richest source of Vitamin C. They are used to make jams, jellies and also brewed for tea.
- The Bird of Paradise is a beautiful, oddly shaped plant that resembles a colorful tropical bird.
- If you want to get a better night’s sleep tonight, try placing Gerbera daisies next to your bed. Gerberas emit oxygen and absorb carbon monoxide and toxins at night, this was said to be especially helpful for anyone suffering from sleep apnea.
- Hydrangeas’ color is determined by the acidity of the soil it’s planted in. If the soil is too alkaline it will result in pink Hydrangeas.
- Shenzhen Nongke Orchid, most expensive flower ever sold – This orchid flowers only blooms once every 4 to 5 years and takes its name from the university at which it was developed. Scientists spent 8 years creating the delicate bloom which fetched a staggering $200,000 at auction in 2005. It remains the most expensive flower ever sold. You can browse our Orchid selection on our site. They won’t be so expensive!
- Lilies are flowers that are toxic and dangerous to cats.
- Calla Lily has numerous flowers. Each individual calla lily actually houses a series of flowers. The single outside petal—technically called a spathe—swoops around and protects those inner flowers in an elegant swirl shape.
- Carnations are edible! While they might not be the most delicious things in existence, carnations are often used as an edible decoration/garnish on salads, cakes, and other desserts. On top of that, breweries, distilleries, and wineries also sometimes use carnations as a flavoring agent.
