Daffodil
Traditionally the daffodil is associated with chivalry, hope, and new life. Many find that it is an uplifting flower with the power to heighten the spirit of any person who has the privilege of stumbling upon its splendid bloom. In fact, a person who encounters a patch of daffodils along their travels will most often feel rejuvenated, or filled with a renewed desire to enjoy all life has to offer. You may find that there are people who will wear a daffodil near their heart with the hope of finding luck upon the way. You may also see a person who uses a daffodil to help increase their fertility, the fertility of their land, or the fertility of their livestock. These are all common practices given the attributes the daffodil possesses. The daffodil may also be present at weddings, placed on the altar during love spells, or placed in potions having to do with love. Despite the belief of some, it's presence during these occasions does not mean the daffodil is a "love" flower. It is used during wedding ceremonies, to offer hope to the new couple, and to symbolize the start of their new life together, therefore, it may be placed amongst the Dark Blossoms and Old poppies at these affairs. During rituals and spells of love it is used in order to bring hope to the individual who desires to find their other half, as hope is an important ingredient in the restoration of one's patience during this search. So if you are happening to be walking along and spot a Daffodil in your midst, I encourage you to take time to admire the bloom. If you are feeling blue, it will most certainly cheer you! Especially if you are lacking in the confidence to fulfill your dreams, for at low times such as these the daffodil will grace you with hope so you do not lose sight of what is important!
Dawn Tulip
Dawn and dusk are significant times during each day. These hours are filled with magical powers waiting to be unlocked and a sense of wonder at what this day or the next will bring forth to each of our lives. At dawn, the sun awakens, creeping forth onto the land and the beings that dwell there. It is the time of peace, the lazy time, where everything slowly stirs and begins to hum in harmony together. The Dawn tulip reigns during these hours, a beacon of light through the misty morning haze, said to bring inspiration and clear vision to those who gaze upon it. Due to its ability to bring focus back into the lives of those who spend time in its presence, the Dawn tulip is often used as an ingredient to aid in divination. It can clear the doubts, uncertainties, or rose-tinted views of the world towards the recess in the mind, giving a person the ability to look at a particular situation, or at their own lives through unbiased eyes. It is important to remember that while it can allow a person to see matters in their life for what they truly, the Dawn tulip is not a revealer of fortunes. With good judgment a person can come to conclusions concerning their problems or work out solutions to aid them. However, the future ultimately lies in one's own hands, so how they use their newfound insight is completely up to them. Like the daffodil, the Dawn tulip may also be used in various love potions or love rituals. It is included with the purpose of opening the mind and allowing one to clearly see the obstacles, joys, or pains that may wait in the future. Some also claim that if you pick a Dawn tulip still fresh with morning dew, you can expect a rain sometime in the near future. So if you need a moments respite from the jumbled and sometimes chaotic thoughts which run through your mind, take a moment to search out a Dawn tulip. After spending some time near a patch of Dawn Tulip's you may find you have gained a new perspective on life.
Dusk Blossom
As previously mentioned, there are many times throughout life when an event will occur with a specific purpose in mind. During the ritual to restore the fertility of the Druid Sacred Grove we were given the ability to bloom a new flower, the Fallen Star, which was meant to represent life. At the end of the ceremony the Druid Guides noticed that a single bloom of another flower had also sprouted in the grove. We tried to gently pluck this bloom so that we could study it along with the Fallen Star, unfortunately, all of our attempts were made in vain. Elder Aiyana suggested that we all take a journey to meet with the wise 'old Druid Yarlof to see if he had any information we could use in order to harvest this plant. To our dismay, Yarlof was nowhere to be found.
Several months later, Aiyana informed the Druids she was having disturbing dreams which left her frightened and confused. During these dreams she could see the image of the Fallen Star as well as the image of a bloom she could not name. She sought out the advice of the Druids within our circle who advised her to seek further counsel. Next, she called upon the aid of a Diviner, Makobi, who confirmed her visions and pointed out she had a choice she must make in the near future. Still very confused, Aiyana sought out Yarlof once again. Although she did not find him in physical form, a messenger brought his word, "Look toward the mysteries of Druidism". Immediately she called the Druids together and Druid Laneigh was asked upon to perform a flower reading. Aiyana pulled forth seeds, which she had found lying near her on the ground as she awakened from her vision, to spread upon the fertile soil in the grove. As those who had gathered to witness the reading drew near, the Dusk blossom sprang forth to cover the ground. Where once before the Gods and Goddesses gifted us with a flower representing life, the Dusk blossom is a reminder of death. This should not cause alarm to the traveler who may stumble upon this fragrant bloom, tidings of death do not always mean that danger is near. In nature, as in all things, only with death can new life be born. Life and death are dependent on one another so that balance is always maintained. Most often this bloom symbolizes an impending change or closure. It is said that a person who seeks to change their current lifestyle need only plant this flower near their home. Dreams of the Dusk blossom usually represent a decision a person must make regarding their course in life, for only when one cycle ends can another begin. During rituals or ceremonies the Dusk blossom can be bloomed to signify the closure of the circle.
It is important to note that while the flower is beautiful to behold, one should have a care to never consume the leaves of a Dusk blossom. The petals can be very poisonous and could result in the death of the unsuspecting citizen.
Fallen Star
There are many times throughout life when an event will occur with a specific purpose in mind. One such event happened to the Druid path on an evening fraught with confusion and anguish. As the Sacred Grove withered away before our very eyes, we stood united in ritual ceremony to breathe fertility and life back within this blessed dwelling. During this ritual the land was finally restored to its former glory allowing the seeds of our beloved flowers to once again take root within the soil. Then, as our Elder Aiyana, reached deep into her satchel to spread more seeds across the ground, a flash rent the sky, and the blooms of the Fallen Star sprung up beneath our feet. We were amazed, never before had this flower grown in our Grove! Unfortunately we were also left with many questions about its sudden appearance. After many days of searching for an answer one was finally provided to us by the Gods and Goddesses themselves. Like the forest fire that engulfs the land in order to clear the brush, enabling new life to grow, the Gods had cleared our Grove in order to prepare the coming of their new gift, the Fallen Star. Thus it is fitting that the new life brought to us, the Fallen Star, should stand for Life. We have been told that the Fallen Star seems to have various healing properties and could be a great aid in potions of healing and fertility. While it is still a very new bloom it has already been whispered that gracing an infertile woman with a Fallen Star will increase her chances of having a child, or that by gifting a Fallen Star upon an expectant mother she can be assured that her babe will grow healthy and strong. Placing the Fallen Star around the home of the elderly or sick is said to breathe new life into the person, providing them with ease of movement and renewed energy. Others have claimed that wishes made upon the bloom of a Fallen star late in the evening have been known to come true as long as the wish is made with the purest of intentions and not out of greed or spite. However, most importantly, the Fallen Star is a reminder of life and of the loved ones now shining down upon us from above.
This bloom is a special gift and thus should be treated with the utmost care by all who handle it. Remember that every event has rewards or consequences attached to it so please be careful of the way you choose to use the Fallen Star.
Golden Sunset
The Sun is a vital part of our everyday existence, a powerful star whose warm beams radiate down upon us provide light, life, warmth, and sustenance. Empowered by the brilliance of this blazing Sun, the Golden sunset is a flower that demands respect and admiration. Its vivid color instantly shouts for a traveler to stop and gaze upon the bloom with pride. While standing near the Golden sunset it is impossible not to absorb some of the strength it emits which most certainly leaves a traveler feeling more confident and determined than he or she was before happening upon it. When picked at the noon hour, the Golden Sunset is at its strongest, and is said to instantly lend strength and comfort to one's heart. The Golden Sunset is also said to be an emblem for justice. Although it not always evident, nature has its own system of power and justice within the world. Therefore it also has its own way of righting the wrongs committed unto it and the beings that dwell here. There are those that have seen many dark days during their lifetime, who may feel that nothing ever goes in the right direction; these people have become disenchanted with life and no longer feel strong enough to fight for their convictions. To these people the Golden sunset provides strength, a scorching light, reminding all that darkness will not prevail for eventually even the blackest of times will come to an end.
So whether you are in need of courage and strength to conquer life's trials, aid in gaining respect, or the power to speak out against wrong doings, the Golden sunset is the flower to seek out!
Greater Tulip
The Greater Tulip is one of the kingdoms most robust and hearty flowers. While simplistic in feature, the Greater Tulip is anything but simplistic in use. For many Yuri’s now this flower has been a significant aid to those faced with sickness, death, and poverty. The Greater Tulip has the power to protect those it surrounds from ailment and danger. When worn close to the heart it is said that the flower wards off evil and keeps disaster at bay. This is especially helpful to those who may be traveling on a long journey or facing a fierce foe. During everyday use, the Greater Tulip can be placed around the home for its scent is said to give a person a stronger constitution, preventing sickness from darkening their door or can be crushed into a salve to be placed on cuts and wounds.
For those who are already ridden with sickness, the Greater Tulip can greatly reduce the symptoms. In these cases the petals of the tulip should be crushed and made into a potion, then the entire potion should be consumed by the patient. In many cases this potion alone will be enough to make a person feel more like themselves. However, in severe cases the power of the Greater Tulip cannot always override what fate has decided. These extreme circumstances should include sacred rituals and blessings as support to the medicinal flower. Although the exact reason is unknown, those who are in the dredges of poverty had found a stroke of luck come their way when the Greater Tulip is near. The flower seems to have a strange power which aids those -truly- in need of assistance. By that II mean those who have been honest and truthful in their dealings and have fallen upon difficult times yet still remain generous to others. Those who have in fact been greedy in the past will find that the Greater Tulip will lend little assistance to their plight.
Heaven's Bell
Reverence for ancestors is one of the four Druid Pillars. Essentially this means that Druids recognize that our family is made up of both the living and those who have gone before us. Our existence is shaped by the wisdom and knowledge that is passed down to us by our ancestors and by following many of the same Druidic traditions that have been practiced for centuries. The Heaven's bell represents wisdom, patience, and has the ability to aid in the protection of our loved ones. It is truly a flower sent to grace this land in order to remind all of us of our ancestors and the knowledge they have left behind.
Many claim while studying it is always nice to have a Heaven's bell close at hand. If you are tired and frustrated while seeking to expand your mind, the Heaven's bell helps you to focus and grants you the patience needed to absorb the information. When scattered about the home the Heaven's Bell has been known to bring a peaceful feeling, lending comfort to those in the vicinity. If a loved one is undertaking a difficult task or long journey, gifting them with a Heaven's bell to wear will help to keep them safe along the way. However, the most important aspect of the Heaven's bell may lie in its ability to bring people closer together. It is a symbol of a deep bond between those of us living in this realm, and of our connection to those who now reside in other realms.
Lemon Flower
With its pure white petals and refreshing zesty aroma, the Lemon flower aids in the "making clean" of anything, either literally or magically. It can be reduced to a cleaning agent for homes, or used to dispel charms, hexes, trances and curses. Lemon flowers can help bring out the inner talents and ability lying dormant in a person, or reveal hidden or stifled emotions and grudges, by removing mental or emotional blocks holding them back. This often allows people to move forward to better self-service and relationships. These bright flowers also cheer up their beholders, and are associated with friendship due to their optimistic qualities.
(by Mystic LostandFound, assisted by Mirfors)
Mango Floret
The floret grows on the Mango trees in the bountiful and rich forests of Gogoon Island. The Mango is commonly regarded to as the 'King Of Fruits.' People wait eagerly to taste this juicy and tasty fruit, known for its harvest in the Spring and early Summer seasons. The flowers are tiny, yellowish pink and grow in dense clusters around the fruit. It symbolizes love, prosperity, wealth, healing and fertility.
One unique part of the Mango floret is that it has numerous medical and healing uses. It is used in treating stomach ailments and cramps, while the bark from the Mango tree is used to treat congestion and infection. Some elements of the Mango floret are very powerful and can cause a less than desirable outcome. When using parts other than the fruit for medicinal purposes, such as the floret, accurate measuring is crucial. An overdose of medicine can even be lethal. The origin of the beautiful Mango floret is not known.
Midnight's Reign
As nightfall descends upon the kingdom the pace of its inhabitants slows to a comfortable patter as they prepare themselves for the dawning of the next day. Usually community members finish up the remainder of their tasks, lay about with a close friend, or snuggle cozily into their beds making this the perfect time for whispered conversations, sharing secrets, and revealing truths with close friends or loved ones. When the Midnight hour comes to pass the world enters a magical zone, the faeries come out of hiding, our ancestors visit in our dreams and potions and spells done during this time contain more power. During this hour the moon can often be seen overhead and the stars liberally sprinkle the sky, shining down on us from above. In the beam of the starlight the Midnight's Reign thrives. The Midnight's Reign is a majestic flower empowered by the magical hour it is named for. Anyone who spends a small amount of time in the presence of the Midnight Reign will suddenly feel an urge to reveal the truths they have been hiding from one another. Some claim that night time confessions are often made shortly after the scent of the Midnight Reign has been carried by the damp night to the homes of those living nearby a patch of the flower. If a person wishes to compel someone to tell them the truth they can either place Midnight's Reign around the house or pin one near the heart of the person they wish to confess. When stronger methods are needed a person can boil the petals of the bloom and make a tea for their guest to drink. Other methods include crushing the petals between thumb and forefinger near a person you wish to confess, or using the Midnight's Reign in a potion you have created during the magic hours.
It is important to remind those of you who might try these methods that truth is something a person should normally own up to themselves. Therefore, when using these methods, even for the best of intentions, you must be careful in your administration. Sometimes the truth is hidden to spare the feelings or another, or to protect someone from either themselves or an enemy. Revealing these truths could harm someone you may have never wished to do injury to. The Midnight's reign grants this power as a gift, and it should be treated as such.
Old Poppy
Sleep is one of the best ways for our body to heal itself. It rejuvenates our physical response time, our mental response time, and gives us the strength to deal with a myriad of situations on a day to day basis. During the sleep process we also dream. It is at this time that our minds open themselves, making us more susceptible to images, premonitions, and communication from other realms. The Old poppy is known to be an aid to those who have trouble sleeping, or to those who simply wish to open the channels to these dreamscapes. When a small dose of the Old poppy is consumed by the body it acts as a mild sedative which simply calms the person who has ingested the juice. However, when larger doses are taken, a person will fall into a slumber so deep that their spirit is able to move outside of the body and make short visits to other realms. Some traditions state that if you soak the seeds of the Old poppy in wine for several days and then fast while drinking it you will enable yourself to become invisible. I would like to point out that while you would surely feel invisible, you would truly be quite visible to those around you. In fact, this could be a potentially dangerous situation as a person -may- consume too much of the Old poppy juice into their system over a short period of time and induce a coma. On another note, the Old poppy may also be found strewn on the ground of a wedding site. It's presence at this event helps to calm the united couple and offer peace and serenity as they cross over into a new life together.
Orange Blossom
The Orange blossom is one of the kingdoms most exotic and luxurious flowers. Hailing from the lush and alluring foliage of Gogoon Island, the Orange blossom is the fragrant and aromatic flower of the Orange tree. While fairly common to the natives of the island, the flower serves a myriad of purposes, such as being used in perfumes, bouquets, and weddings. Women of Gogoon have always worn some kind of a floral embellishment on their wedding day, and the tradition of using Orange blossoms has spread from the island to the mainland. Maidens have used fresh Orange blossoms to decorate their hair on a wedding day, and this custom was so widespread that that the expression "to gather orange blossoms" took completely different connotation by starting to mean "to seek a wife". Orange blossoms are omens of purity, innocence and moral virtue, but also a symbol of fruitfulness and fertility. The petals of the flower can be made into a Gogoon delicacy known as Orange blossom water, frequently used as an ingredient in desserts and tea.
Pink Mugunghwa
Tiny drops of rain fell from the sky, spattering against the leaves of a large oak tree. A lady with long red hair sat under the tree, smiling with content. She leaned her back easily against the tree trunk, listening to the sounds of the rain. A group of young children were sharing the space under the tree with her, all chattering quietly and playing games with each other. One of the children was braiding tiny flowers together to make a necklace.
Seeing the flowers, another child spoke up. "Tell us the story of the mugunghwa again, please Jesuil," she said in a tiny voice. The other children squealed and chimed in their agreements. Smiling softly, the woman with red hair regarded the children. "Alright," she said with a nod, much to the delight of the children around her. They all settled in quietly against one another as Jesuil began her tale.
"It had not been that long ago when the times were counted in Hyuls, rather than Yuris," Jesuil began, her eyes filled with memories as she spoke. "King Yuri was a kind ruler, I remember him well. He was quite old when I met him as a young child. But his time had come and gone, just like everyone else's must," she said with a slight sigh in her voice. "The cities had new rulers, and time continued to move forward."
"Nature continued in balance, but it seemed to be heading towards a time of hardships and sadness. Many wonderful friends had passed on to Sidhae, the Summerlands, and they were greatly missed by the living. The older family members seemed to become even closer knit than before, perhaps as a comfort in their own hearts at the loss of their friends. Our leader, Supply, was a continued source of strength and comfort in those harsher days, always bringing a smile to everyone's lips, no matter what had been going on. We leaned on her, heavily, we depended on her smiles to lift us when we were down. Supply rarely ever spoke of her own feelings, and so, I think most all of us took a little for granted how she might be hurting as well."
Jesuil smiled softly as she continued, "There came a time, after a close friend had walked away from our home, that Supply's strength was tested to its limits. She cried tears of sorrow and pain at the loss we had all endured, and began to retreat within her. Her heart had taken so much joy and so much pain, that she started to feel it would be easier to harden her heart against further emotion, both good and bad, rather than open herself and be hurt so deeply again. Supply wandered throughout the wilderness, the home she loved so dearly. She wept openly, her heart torn, knowing that she could not be a true Druid, or the leader of her home, with a closed heart, but wanting so much for the pains to stop. The animals, knowing this strong Druid woman so well, seemed to give pause and watch as she passed by quietly.
Supply walked until she at last came to a large waterfall, where she sat down in the soft grass and gazed along the water's surface. She closed her eyes and said a quiet prayer to Druantia, asking for guidance and strength in these long hours. The sound of the waterfall seemed to fade away, and slowly, Supply opened her eyes again."
The children had ceased all their movements, and listened in rapt silence as Jesuil spoke. "The sky was the brightest blue she had ever seen, Supply later told us," Jesuil said with a smile. "The grass was greener than mid-Summer, and the air held a sweet fragrance to it. Supply moved to her feet and looked about with wonder. And then, she saw them. Circling the base of a large, and very old tree, tiny pink flowers dotted the ground. Supply walked over to the tree and knelt down, absolutely captivated by the beauty of the flowers. A woman's voice touched her ears, a voice to lovely, it brought tears to Supply's eyes just to hear it. "Mugunghwa," the voice said. "Fragile in appearance, but filled with inner strength and power.
The voice continued. "Lovely to behold, but holding the secret of inner strength within. A flower that has held up with grace and beauty under many storms, yet gives inspiration to all who gaze upon it. Just like you have, my dear daughter."
Tears ran down Supply's cheeks as she gazed upon the lovely flowers. The words touched her heart so deeply, repairing the damage and filling it with courage and never-ending love. Her lips parted to ask if she may share the flowers with her family, when suddenly a bright light around her caused her to close her eyes, the words dying on her lips.
A few moments later, Supply was back in the forest, sitting by the waterfall again. She looked around with wonder, climbing once again to her feet. A weight in her hand made her look down at it, seeing a small gathering of seeds in her palm. Supply smiled, and placed the seedlings into a bit of cloth, keeping them safe. She turned and made her way back home, so that she could share the new found flowers with her family, and they with the world."
The children were all smiling when Jesuil's story ended. A very young girl with hair much the same color as hers placed a tiny mugunghwa flower in Jesuil's lap. They smiled and hugged each other as the rain continued to fall all about their tree, deep within in the forest.
The national flower of Korea, the Mugunghwa flower (also known as Rose of Sharon) has been a part of the Korean culture for many centuries. A small, fragile looking flower, this beauty holds a deep inner strength. Some can bloom 2,000 to 3,000 on a single plant!
Pink Mugunghwa represent inner strength and inspiration through harsh times. A vase of these flowers will lend strength to any person who feels the burdens of life pulling them down. The mugunghwa flower are a good example of the saying - "Do not judge a book by its cover!"
Use Pink Mugunghwa sparingly in tea for extra energy, or wear a bit in your hair to share inspiration throughout your day. The word "Mugung" means immortality, and it has been rumored that a very strong potion of these flowers may even grant the user the gift of eternal life. However, be careful what you wish for, if you choose to travel down this path!
Rose
For generations this hearty bloom has been given as a symbol of the lasting affection between two people; this is not surprising as the Rose is most widely known as the traditional flower of love, friendship, and companionship. The Rose is also coveted for its wonderful aroma and medicinal purposes. The fragrance is said to stimulate ardor in a person, and also tends to release the stress of those who inhale it. Added to potions or healing mixtures, the Rose can either increase the chances of finding love, or soothe away the aches and pains of another. While we most certainly agree with this representation of the Rose, the Druid Subpath also views the Rose as a symbol of the balance within nature. A variety of creatures gazes upon the Rose and are attracted to it, either because of its beautiful bloom or the sweet fragrance it emits. Due to this many seek to pluck the rose or use it as a food source. However, underneath its glorious exterior, the Rose has formed thorns as a protective measure. These thorns ensure that while some will continue to pick or eat it's blossom, others will be warned away, having received a sharp poke for their efforts. So, although the Rose is a powerful source of attraction, and an aid to those in need of a healing touch, it is most importantly an emblem of strength and survival.
Sunflower
Gifts of radiant warmth, Sunflowers are the happiest of flowers. They are unique in their ability to provide energy in the form of nourishment and vibrance - an attribute which mirrors the sun and the energy provided by its heat and light. While their distinctive and brilliant appearance makes it easy to see why Sunflowers have long held our fascination, their usefulness was found in providing oil and food, rather than the flower's beauty. This unique combination of striking beauty and utility is, in part, why sunflowers have appeared as such revered symbols throughout the ages. The Sunflower moves itself in the most direct position in front of the sun so it can get the maximum amount of sun rays. This is symbolic of spiritual faith and worship, because we follow our belief system as the Sunflower moves to face the life-giving rays of the sun.
Found mostly in the western part of the kingdoms, Sunflowers continue to provide a resource for commonly used seeds and oil, but they have also become recognized as a floral symbol of great significance. With the sense of brightness and warmth that Sunflowers naturally impart, they have become an ideal choice for sending sentiments of cheerfulness and good health.
Winedrop
A flower that is a symbol of majesty. This flower can symbolize riches in not just a thriving economic condition, but also a richness of the soul. It symbolizes the majesty of creation, and the awe such majesty inspires. However, the aroma and by-products are extremely intoxicating, and one must be cautious in consumption. Over-use will send someone into a hallucinating state, accompanied by clouded judgment and delusions of grandeur. When used correctly, it can grant a person elevated self-esteem and pride, helping in future endeavors and when feeling unappreciated. These blossoms can uplift the depressed or ill-willed individual, but may be addictive and harmful over extended periods of use.
(by Mystic LostandFound, assisted by Silerphix)
Yuri's Love
There are certain times when the Gods and Goddesses send the Druid Path special seeds with a distinct purpose, the Yuri's Love is a bloom that has resulted from one of these occasions. Many in the community marvel at the bloom and wish to see it sprout before their own eyes. When they are told that the Yuri's Love cannot be bloomed at this time they do not understand why this particular flower refuses to grow from the tips of our fingers like many of the other kingdom blooms. During a great part of the year the Yuri's Love will only grow in special sacred places, as it is a sacred flower. However, the Yuri's Love also has the power to bless and purify and will cover an area with its beautiful bloom when it feels these things are deserved. From time to time the Elder of our path will hear word of a special occasion and the Druids will clamor out of their Woodland homes to take part in the ritual or festivities. At these times we almost certainly carry a few seeds of the Yuri's Love upon us to see if they will bless the event with their presence. In certain circumstances we will feel the vibrations of the seeds in our satchel long before we arrive at the event, however, most often the warmth and tingle make themselves known during very obscure moments. When these moments occur, we say a blessing over the ground and plant the seed with care. If we have read the intentions of the seed correctly, it will spring forth from the ground, blessing the inhabitants near it and purifying the soil, deeming it sacred for a time. On even rarer occasions the seeds of the Yuri's Love will be ground into a potion to be sprinkled over a person who is in need of blessing or purification, or to be sprinkled over an area we wish to cleanse.
If you have ever witnessed the blooming of the Yuri's Love you have been privy to a magical moment blessed by the God's and Goddesses themselves. As you may have noticed the flowers continue to survive long after they have been plucked, and continue to hold their sacred power. If by chance you have any Yuri's Love in your keeping, these blooms should be treasured and handled with special care.