Last updated on May 20th, 2023 at 06:19 pm

In 1997, D. Geerinck, a Belgian botanist, gave the name hybrid bluebells to a species produced by crosses between the English bluebell and Spanish bluebell. Hybrid bluebells have broad leaves with pointy tips. The petals are small and have a faint smell.

Bluebells are small tubular flowers that typically come in shades of blue and purple. These bell-shaped flowers are grouped under the genus Hyacinthoides.

Bluebells are in full bloom during April and May. Woodlands in some parts of Europe transform into bluebell wood during spring, a delight for nature lovers.

Native to Europe and Asia, bluebells grow in clusters under the trees and spread across the forest floors in enchanting blue during spring. These wildflowers also adorn meadows, mountain slopes, and coastal cliffs. 

Today, the captivating beauty of these woodland flowers has landed them a spot in home gardens.

What does the Bluebell flower symbolize?

Like other popular flowers, bluebells have a special place in art and literature. “The Bluebell” is a poem by Emily Bronte describing the beauty of British woodlands filled with bluebells.

Jack Wiggins, an artist known for depicting changing seasons, captures the blue spring blossoms in his work, “A Bluebell Wood.”

The common bluebell flower means eternal love. It is a deep love for your significant other that transcends time. 

These nodding wild blossoms capture the attention of onlookers with their delicate beauty making them a symbol of humility. Bluebells are charming flowers that appear to be bowing modestly despite their ethereal beauty and importance in wildlife.

Another common bluebell flower meaning is gratitude. They make a suitable gift as a sign of appreciation for someone who has shown you kindness and generosity.

As a perennial plant, bluebells flower year after year in the springtime. They stay in bloom for about two months and then disappear with a promise to return the next year. This sends a message of loyalty, persistence, and permanence.

Bluebells are connected to spirituality. These mesmerizing flowers that spring up in forests and meadows fill our hearts with wonder, thrill, and tranquility. It’s no surprise they are associated with spirituality and the spiritual realm.

All in all, the bluebell flower symbolic meanings are:

  • everlasting love
  • humility
  • gratitude
  • constancy
  • spirituality

Meaning of the Bluebell colors

Blue color 

The blue pigment does not frequently appear in flowers, but it is the most common color of bluebells across different species. It is also the color of the endless sky and oceans. Blue is the color of compassion, and blue bluebells represent kindness and gratitude.

Purple color 

Gorgeous bluebells grow in the wild, usually under the shade of the trees, adding to the scenic beauty of a woodland. While purple is a color related to wealth, royalty, and luxury, bluebells in purple stand for humility. Despite the exquisite beauty, bluebells are nodding flowers that remain close to the ground. Purple bluebells flower meaning also includes mystery.

Pink color 

Pink bluebells are associated with love. This romantic color delivers the message of pure love that brings happiness. Gentle and pleasant, pink bluebells also represent innocence.

White color

White is another popular flower color that represents innocence. Bluebell blossoms in white look serene and peaceful. Some regard white bluebells as spiritual flowers for their glorious beauty.

Interesting facts about the Bluebell flower

  • The UK woodlands are home to almost 50% of all the bluebells in the world. The Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) protects the native wild bluebells (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) from threats of hybridization, illegal trade, and habitat destruction. It prevents intentional picking, uprooting, and destruction of the common bluebells.
  • These sweet-smelling flowers produce nectar to feed the bees, butterflies, and woodland insects. They are also the favorite flower of hummingbirds. The tubular shape formed by the petals makes a cup for the tiny bird to drink sweet nectar.
  • Bluebells are toxic, but they have styptic and diuretic properties. Modern research also reveals that these flowers produce bioactive agents that can potentially fight cancer and HIV.
  • Bluebells are dedicated to St. George, England’s Patron Saint.
  • These woodland flowers are no exception when it comes to mythology. Here are some popular myths surrounding bluebells:
    • Bluebells can summon fairies.
    • Fairies use bluebells to trap humans.
    • Bluebell woods are home to fairies.
    • Picking a bluebell means inviting misfortune.
    • Those who pick a bluebell flower cannot return home.
    • It is a bad omen to hear a bluebell ring.
    • Wearing a wreath of bluebells can compel a person to tell the truth.
    • If you can turn a bluebell flower inside out without spoiling it, you will win the love of someone you desire.

How to grow Bluebell flowers

Bluebells can grow in most types of soils. They thrive in moist and well-drained soil, rich in humus. They usually grow in partial shade underneath deciduous shrubs and trees. 

  1. Choose a pot with sufficient drainage holes.
  2. Place the pot in full sun to partial shade.
  3. Fill the pot with good potting soil.
  4. Plant the bulbs 10-15 cm deep, rough side down, pointed end up. Plant bulbs 10cm apart in rows, then cover them with dirt.
  5. When the bulbs begin to sprout, water gently to hydrate the soil.
  6. Feed them with plant foods.
  7. After the flowers and foliage have gone, continue to water the plant lightly to keep the soil moist. Watering should be discontinued once the foliage has died.
  8. Remove the bulbs and set them in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight.

How to care for Bluebell flowers

  1. Water the bluebell flower plant when the soil dries out during hot summer days.
  2. After flowering, give them a light feeding of granular general plant food.
  3. Watering them with a liquid plant food after flowering and until the foliage begins to fall back will help them establish strength and size for the following year’s flowering.
  4. Allow the leaves to die down naturally after flowering.
  5. Remove faded flower spikes before they set seed to keep the plants from self-seeding and spreading in places they aren’t wanted.

Best time to gift Bluebell flowers

Flowers bring joy and hope. Gifting flowers is a lovely way to show your affection to dear ones. Bluebell flowers make a great choice for any colorful occasion as they convey positive emotions.

Bluebells in any color can be gifted to express eternal love. Ideally, pink is the color of romance, but you can also present a bouquet of exquisite blue or purple bluebells to make your romantic partner feel special.

As a flower that symbolizes gratitude, bluebells can also be gifted to say you’re thankful to someone. It could be your family, friends, or anyone who has been a source of strength and support to you.

Conclusion

The bluebell flower has a variety of names and meanings that vary by nation; nevertheless, its endearing beauty remains consistent.

These flowers symbolize humility, hope, faith, grace, thankfulness, and steadfast love. Furthermore, it represents bringing light into your life and making the most of it.

The bluebell is associated with both positive and negative meanings, as well as fantastic tales. However, it is utilized in celebration or grief, much like a regular bell.

After all, the meaning you choose is ultimately a personal choice.

If you want to know and learn more about flowers, we at PansyMaiden can help you. Check out our fun, easy-to-read, and informative flower-related content that you will surely enjoy!