With a haunting perfume that soon sells
On roadsides, tied in twee bouquets
A traditional gift on first of May.
Known as “Mary's Tears” when Jesus died
Grief for her Son, the Crucified;
Used by the French on Labour Day,
In Kate Middleton's bouquet.
Yugoslavia's emblem long ago
Essential in “Diorissimo”
Sign of humility for some
As underground its rhizomes run ...
The national flower of all the Finns
As the return of happiness it brings
“Garden Merit” award by RHS*;
This flower inspires by its finesse.
Though sweetly-scented, please beware
It's poisonous so have a care
If ingested, stomach pains ensue
Blurred vision and red rashes too!
(c) Poet in the woods 2016
*RHS = Royal Horticultural Society
On May 1st, 1561, King Charles IX of France received a Lily of the Valley (or Muguets in French) as a lucky charm, and thereafter decided to offer one each year to the ladies of the court.....
Such a fun and informative poem, Sarah! I’m also a Lily-of-the-valley fan since childhood when my dear Mom taught me how to make little May Day baskets in a paper cup for my teacher 😄❤️
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