Last updated on May 21st, 2023 at 07:02 pm
Azucena is the Spanish name for Madonna lily, and its scientific name is Lilium Candidum. This flower belongs to the genus Lilium and the family Liliaceae. Plants belonging to the Lilium genus are referred to as true lilies. The key characteristics of these flowering plants include herbaceous growth, bulb-like formations, and large flowers.
Every flower comes with its own identity. The Madonna lily (Azucena) is not an exception, having an interesting meaning. The name Lilium is derived from Latin Li – meaning white- and lium – meaning flower. Candidum translates to dazzling white or shining, apt for the pristine Madonna lily. This flower is a hermaphrodite, containing both male and female reproductive parts.
True to its genus characteristics, the Madonna lily is a bulbous plant with origins in the Middle East and Balkan countries. Regions of origin include Turkey, Israel, and Lebanon. Balkan regions of the plant origin include Romania, North Macedonia, Bosnia, Albania, Croatia, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Serbia, and Kosovo.
The Madonna lily has been known in history for about 3 000 years, which could mean that it is the most ancient flower in the class of lilies. As a herbaceous plant, the Madonna lily is a non-woody plant. It has a long stem with leaves that are dark green and glossy. The flower resembles the shape of a trumpet and comes with 6 petals. The plant’s flowers are large, fragrant, and of a beautiful white. These flowers are well-known for attracting butterflies. They bloom during the period between late spring and early summer.
Madonna lily is a perennial plant, meaning it belongs to the class of plants that live for over 2 years, unlike biennial and annual plants, which have a shorter lifespan.
What does the Madonna Lily (Azucena) flower symbolize?
People in the Balkan regions referred to Madonna lily (Azucena) as “Zambak,” which in the Persian language means “lily.” A geographic variety of the Azucena is “Sultan Zambak.” The word “Sultan” is from the Turkish Muslim vocabulary and means power, strength, or authority. In essence, the variants of the name Azucena translate to something classic and pure.
The Hebrew word for Madonna lily is “Shoshan, ” meaning a “beautiful flower,” which is believed to have been from “shesh,” which means six. This is connected to this flowering plant as the Madonna lily has 6 petals. The flower is so shaped that there are 3 petals on the outer front and 3 on the inner. The outer petals are referred to as sepals.
The whole flower structure is a 2-part formation with 6 pointed ends, the root of the geometric shape hexagram. Hexagram is believed to be made up of 2 triangles- one representing a fiery male – and the other a watery female triangle.
The combination of these two triangles is a representation of the two sexes. In Azucena, this combination results in the 3 sepals and 3 inner petals. This association is significant, given that the flower is a hermaphrodite.
Azucena flower’s meaning is not limited to civilizations and religions. They found space and meaning in poems too. Ancient Hebrew poets used the Azucena often to express purity.
All in all, the Madonna lily (Azucena) flower symbolic meanings are:
- purity
- innocence
- chastity
- elegance
Meaning of the Madonna Lily (Azucena) flower color
White color
The splendid white is the only known color of the Madonna lily (Azucena). This white-petaled flower may sometimes have a pale green center. The anthers of the flower are yellow. These plants usually grow up to a height of 4 to 5 feet.
White Azucena symbolizes purity, innocence, kindness, and virtue.
Interesting facts about the Madonna Lily (Azucena) flowers
- Madonna lily (Azucena) can be toxic to cats.
- The beauty of Azucena may give the impression of a hard-to-maintain plant, but they are one of the easiest plants to grow.
- Madonna Lily has been used extensively in medicinal treatments since ancient times. The plant has been used to address ulcers, coughs, burns, and age-related diseases.
- In ancient Israel, the Azucena was the favorite among flowers. With its sweet smell, the fragrant flower was used to make perfumes.
- Prophet Hosea, who lived in the 8th century BCE, described the Azucena as Israel’s flower symbol.
- Studies state that the Madonna Lily is rich in phytochemicals. Phytochemicals have various health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and neurodegeneration. The presence of these active plant compounds increases the plant’s therapeutic potential. More studies are underway to reach conclusive facts regarding the plant’s medical potential.
How to grow Madonna Lily (Azucena) flowers
The Madonna lily (Azucena) is a stunning white flower that develops from bulbs. However, the planting and care of these bulbs differ from that of other lilies. Make sure you understand the unique requirements of these flowers so you may grow a magnificent display of spring flowers next year.
- Plant the Madonna lily (Azucena) in rich, well-drained soil.
- Place the bulbs where they can get full sun or partial shade.
- Water the bulbs well after planting.
- Use a slow-release fertilizer that’s soluble to boost growth.
How to care for Madonna Lily (Azucena) flowers
- Maintain evenly moist soil, but avoid overwatering.
- Apply a fertilizer that’s rich in phosphorus to accelerate the blooming phase.
- Mulch the bulbs often when the temperatures are hot to improve the moisture retention rate.
- Deadhead the flowers that look pale.
- Trim the plant when the blooming phase is over.
- Get rid of leaves that start to turn yellow.
Best time to gift Madonna Lily (Azucena) flowers
Fresh-cut Madonna lily (Azucena) flowers are perfect gifts for birthdays, baptisms, and weddings. As flowers represent chastity, innocence, and simple beauty, the Azucena is the best for such occasions.
You can also give these flowers on new birth celebrations. As a symbol of purity, the Azucena is the perfect gift to welcome a new baby.
These flowers can also be gifted to express your love. Whether declaring your undying love to your girlfriend or your lasting affection for your spouse, the Azucena expresses the purity of your love in the best way.
The dazzling white of the Azucena is the best color for inspiration. This flower is a perfect choice for occasions where you want to wish the recipient great success.
These flowers also have housewarming functions. As a flower that stands for purity and truth, the Azucena expresses perfection and divinity on such occasions.
The Azucena is a natural favorite, given its association with Virgin Mary. The purity and chastity associated with the flower and the profundity of white make it a great choice for such occasions.
White is a color of cleanliness. The Azucena flowers can be gifted with strength and a body free of diseases, wishing someone to get well soon.
Conclusion
The Madonna lily (Azucena) is the epitome of beauty and simplicity. This flower is a great border plant, especially if you have annuals and other bulbous plants, and has captured people’s hearts since ancient times and continues to do so.
The dazzling white of this flower contrasts with other flowers in your garden. Their unique and interesting meaning and symbolism make the Madonna lily flower even more special.
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