Continuing our journey through the enchanting world of Greek flower names, we uncover another set of botanical wonders steeped in mythology and symbolism. From the captivating Antheia to the mysterious Iphigenia, each flower holds a unique story or symbolic meaning derived from ancient Greek lore. Let’s explore these fascinating blooms and unravel the tales behind their Greek names.
- Acanthus – The name Acanthus is derived from the Greek word “akantha,” which means thorn or spine. In Greek mythology, the acanthus plant is associated with the nymph Acantha, who was transformed into the spiky plant by the god Apollo to protect her from the advances of the god Apollo.
- Amaryllis – The name Amaryllis is derived from the Greek word “amarusso,” which means to sparkle. In Greek mythology, Amaryllis was a shepherdess who fell in love with Alteo, but her love was unrequited. To win his heart, she pierced her heart with a golden arrow and Alteo’s doorstep, where a beautiful flower bloomed, which was named after her.
- Antheia – Derived from the Greek word “anthos,” meaning flower or blossom, Antheia is associated with the Greek goddess of flowers and vegetation. She was one of the Charites (Graces) and represented the blooming of flowers and the coming of spring.
- Crocus – The name Crocus is derived from the Greek word “krokos,” which means saffron. In Greek mythology, Crocus was a mortal youth who was turned into the saffron flower by the gods after his tragic death.
- Hellebore – The name Hellebore is derived from the Greek words “hellein,” which means to injure, and “bora,” which means food. In Greek mythology, hellebore was associated with the goddess Helle, who was said to have been cured of madness by eating the plant.
- Iphigenia – Derived from the Greek words “iphi,” which means strong, and “genos,” which means born, Iphigenia was a Greek mythological figure who was sacrificed by her father Agamemnon. In some versions of the myth, her tears are said to have turned into the iris flower.
- Lilium – The name Lilium is derived from the Greek word “leirion,” which means lily. In Greek mythology, the lily was associated with various goddesses, including Hera, Juno, and Venus, and symbolized purity, femininity, and motherhood.
- Nerium – Derived from the Greek word “nerion,” which means oleander, Nerium is associated with the Greek nymph Nerium, who was transformed into the oleander plant by the gods to escape the advances of the river god Spercheus.