Bluebells (Hyacinthoides spp.):
History:
The Common English Bluebell is a beloved treasure of Britain where its presence is said to indicate the ancientness of a forest. The bluebells are a tourist attraction in some parts of England. “Bluebell Trains” once ran through the Chiltern Hills offering tourists a view of the masses of bluebells that helped earn the area the designation of “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty”. Although these tourist trains no longer run, the Bluebell Railway in East Sussex runs past plenty of bluebells in the right season.
Folklore:
Bluebells are widely known as harebells in Scotland. The name originated due to the hares that frequented fields covered with harebells. Some sources claim that witches turned themselves into hares to hide among the flowers.
Another name for bluebells is Dead Man’s bells. This is due to the fact that fairies were believed to cast spells on those who dare to pick or damage the beautiful, delicate flowers.
Faery associations:
Bluebells are also closely linked to the realm of fairies and are sometimes referred to as “fairy thimbles.” To call fairies to a convention, the bluebells would be rung. The bluebell is a fairy flower, used by the fae to trap humans who encroach on natural places. If a child picks a bluebell in a bluebell wood, he will never be seen again. If an adult picks one, he will wander lost, led astray by pixies forever, or until someone rescues him.
Etymological points:
The Latin name for this flower is Endymion who was the lover of the moon goddess, Selene. The goddess put Endymion into an eternal sleep, so she alone could enjoy his beauty. Bluebells were said by herbalists to help prevent nightmares, and used as a remedy against leprosy, spider-bites and tuberculosis, but the bluebell is poisonous.
Uses in witchcraft & spells:
Wearing a wreath of bluebells is said to compel one to speak only truth.
Bluebells may be used in love spells: Turn a Common English bluebell flower inside out to ensure you will win the heart of the one you desire.
Bluebells are among the first flowers of spring and so represent rebirth. They may be planted on gravesites to comfort mourning visitors and represent rebirth of the dead.
Planet: Saturn or moon / Element: air
Corresponds to Throat & 3rd Eye chakras.
Flower language meanings:
humility
constancy
gratitude
everlasting love
