09-May Speedwells & Cranesbills Tile Image

09-May Speedwells & Cranesbills

Summary

This week, London's cracks and crannies come alive with miniature masterpieces. Discover why Persian speedwells - with their sky-blue petals and white surprise - were feared as storm omens by medieval pilgrims. Learn how these delicate "farewell flowers" earned their gruesome nickname, and why they once starred in cancer remedies.

Meanwhile, cranesbills begin their pink parade: from the velvety dovesfoot to the tearful 'Mourning Widow', whose petals fall like sorrow itself. Could a rogue wood cranesbill from Lancashire be hiding in your local park? And what dark secret gives the bloody cranesbill its name, despite its cheerful magenta hue?

Article

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