March 07, 2021
Looking for a way to bring a wee bit of the Irish into your home? A potted shamrock plant is the perfect addition to a sunny window and is a wonderful way to add a little bit of green to your St. Patrick’s Day festivities. Did you know that the word shamrock originated from the Old Irish “seamróg,” which means “little clover?” Read on to find out more about this iconic plant and its ties to the Irish.
History of the Shamrock
This iconic Irish symbol began its journey to fame with the Celtic druids who considered the number 3 to be a perfect number, associating it with the three realms of sea, sky, and land, as well as the division of soul in the spirit, mind, and body, and the ideal of love, wisdom, and truth, among others. It was first recognized as a symbol related to the Celtic goddess Ana, representing her place as maiden, mother, and crone.
During the 5th century, St. Patrick often used the shamrock to illustrate the Holy Trinity as he spread the Catholic faith throughout Ireland. The shamrock made an appearance on St. Patrick’s coppers, otherwise known as halfpennies, in 1675. By the 19th century, the shamrock became a symbol of Irish rebellion when the English forbade the “wearin’ o’ the green.” Those who wore it anyway faced death.
The original shamrock is believed to be the white clover (Trifolium repens), native to Ireland but found growing in yards across America.
Oxalis, the False Shamrock
The plant typically sold as a potted shamrock plant is Oxalis regnellii. This small plant is loved for its clover-shaped leaves in various colors and the delicate flowers that bloom from fall until spring. Its delicate leaves fold up at night and reopen with the return of sunlight. Oxalis is a member of the wood sorrel family. Although both shamrocks and Oxalis have three leaves, they are from different plant genus, and the leaves and the flowers are shaped differently. True shamrocks are members of the clover family Trifolium repens.
Oxalis plant species are extremely prolific and can be found throughout the world, with the most diverse plant being in South America and Southern Africa. In the United States, three species of Oxalis are considered invasive: Bermuda Buttercup, Pink Wood sorrel, and Common Yellow Wood sorrel. While there are many different cultivars of Oxalis, exotic varieties make the best house plants.
Oxalis may not be the original shamrock, but this beauty has captured the hearts of all of us looking to bring the luck of the Irish into our homes. And Marquette residents need as much green as we can get in March. Stop by Flower Works to pick up one for your St Patrick’s Day festivities or to bring a little luck to someone you know. Contact us at (906) 273-1335.
May 15, 2024
Florists can think outside the box to come up with unconventional ideas or themes and put together a truly unique corsage that will make your prom, wedding, or other special event more memorable.
Everyone’s personal preferences in their corsage will create a unique look. Our experienced florists at FlowerWorks can help make your corsage uniquely you for prom or your wedding. Stop by our store or contact us online.
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On April 24, 2024, offices across the nation will celebrate Administrative Professionals’ Day, a day celebrating the hard work of professionals who keep their offices running smoothly. If you work in an office daily, these administrative staff are constantly working behind the scenes to ensure you have what you need and are in the loop. For this reason, you may want to purchase some quality and fresh flowers online to give to the staff.