Snowdrops, Flowers Of Hope

The tiny flowers are tears of winter, melting into spring, according to legend. Thought to have been brought to Britain in the 15th century by Italian Monks for their monastery gardens. Their heads droop to keep their pollen dry for the few winter insects around. Although snowdrops are toxic, they are used in medicine to help treat Alzheimer's disease and there is continuing research into how the flower might help to treat people with HIV. An extract of snowdrops was once used to waterproof the fabric of early aeroplanes. The Victorians planted them on the graves of loved ones in remembrance. They also considered them unlucky to bring into the house from their cold environment and bringing in just one flower was a bad omen. Probably because it wouldn't last in the warm.