Lady's Smock

Today's the day ........................ to await

This understated little flower is what I have always known as Lady's Smock.

Its posh Latin name is Cardamine pratensis - where the 'pratensis' comes from the Latin word for 'meadow'.  But you might know it as the cuckoo flower, mayflower or milkmaids.  Apparently, according to folklore, it was said to be sacred to the fairies and that it was unlucky if brought indoors.  So for that reason it was not included in May Day garlands.  

I found this one growing by the River Dee - but we do have some in the garden.  It is a valuable food plant for the orange tip butterfly (Anthocharis cardamines) and so it makes a valuable addition to any garden which aims at attracting wildlife.  Fingers crossed that we get some orange tips as well soon ....................