Nature Awareness 7/12/2014 - Goldenrod A wildflower that one can find readily in bloom during the months of July and August and well into the autumn season is the resilient goldenrod… and this flower does well to symbolize Lammas (Lughnasadh), the first harvest holiday, as it approaches. In fact, one of the last big flower shows each year is provided by goldenrod species. They are all perennials with large clusters of small yellow flowers that appear from the end of summer until frost. The leaves of goldenrods are simple, lance or egg shaped and usually have a toothed margin. Most species propagate by a spreading root system in addition to seed and they can be a troublesome addition to a wildflower garden for that reason. They become more common in pastures under heavy grazing pressure and so are often used as an indicator species by range managers. Goldenrod actually belongs to the sunflower family. The Chippewa Indians called it “gizisomukiki” meaning “sun medicine”. The plant has been used medicinally, for a number of ailments. Brews of goldenrod were popular and witches were said to have used goldenrod in potions. In Europe, the leaves were sometimes concocted into what was called Blue Mountain wine. Teas were brewed in both Europe and in North America, particularly by the indigenous. Medicinal extracts and tea leaves made from the aromatic American species as fragrant goldenrod S. odora were exported in the 19th Century to China, where they commanded high prices. The flowers of various species of goldenrods have been used to make yellow dyes for cloth. Nowadays, it is used as beautiful, decorative flower. Symbolism: first harvests, homecoming, health, hearth, abundance, beauty, resilience.
Posted on: Sat, 12 Jul 2014 13:29:41 +0000
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