Also referred to as harebells, bluebell flowers are some of the most lovely you can behold. Although you might not attach any kind of intrinsic meaning to the lower beyond its sheer beauty, there is more to this delicate plant than what initially meets the eye.
Here’s what you need to know about the bluebell flower’s meaning.
What Does Bluebell Mean?
The bluebell flower or Common Bluebell falls within the Hyacinthoides family, a genus of flowering plants in the Asparagaceae family. These are all referred to as bluebells.
The flower gets its name as a translation from the Greek phrase, “unmarked hyacinth.” This distinguishes it from regular hyacinths, which were said to spring forth from Hyacinthus as he died in Greek mythology.
What Do Bluebell Flowers Symbolize?
Usually, bluebell flowers symbolize gratitude and humility. However, they can also symbolize constancy and everlasting love.
Almost always, bluebells are blue and they’re one of the most common flowers with blue color. However, there are some that are a bit off-white. In this case, bluebells can also be associated with images of spirituality and purity, a common connotation for white flowers.
The Bluebell Flower and Dark Fairy Magic
The Bluebell flower, also known as Hyacinthoides non-scripta, is a member of the Liliaceae family.
Interestingly, the Bluebell flower is regarded as an ancient indicator of woodland, meaning that where Bluebells are present, it is likely that the woodland is ancient, undisturbed, and has been around for hundreds of years.
In folklore and legend, Bluebells have long been associated with the fairy realm, particularly the darker side of fairy magic. Some believe that Bluebells are magical portals through which fairies can enter our world and that the ringing of the Bluebell flowers sound like fairy bells.
According to legend, anyone who hears the ringing of the Bluebell bell will fall under the spell of the fairy folk and be unable to resist their enchantments.
Bluebells are also believed to be connected with death and the afterlife. In ancient Celtic times, warriors would wear Bluebell flowers in their helmets as a symbol of their bravery and connection with the spirit world. The flower was also associated with the goddess Hecate, who was considered to be the guardian of the dead.
In the language of flowers, Bluebells symbolize gratitude and humility. They are often given as gifts to express thanks or as a gesture of affection. Interestingly, in some parts of the world, Bluebells are regarded as bad luck and it is believed that picking them will bring misfortune.
Where Do Bluebell Flowers Grow?
Bluebells are a popular wildflower found in woodlands throughout Europe, but they grow in many other places as well, including North and South America.
They are commonly found in forests and meadows, and their natural habitat is damp soil and areas with shade. If you live in an area with a similar climate, you can easily plant bluebell bulbs in your garden or backyard.
How to Plant and Care for Bluebell Bulbs
To plant bluebells, dig a hole about two to three inches deep and place the bulbs into the soil with the root facing down. Make sure to space the bulbs about four inches apart, as bluebells can spread quickly.
Cover the bulbs with soil and water them sparingly. Bluebells don’t require much water and actually prefer a slightly damp soil.
Bluebells don’t require much maintenance, but you should keep in mind a few tips. First, make sure to remove any dead or dying foliage or flowers. This will not only keep the plant looking neat and tidy but also encourage new growth.
Bluebells also prefer partial to full shade, so make sure to plant them in an area that gets some sunlight but is mostly shaded. If you live in an area with harsh summers, consider planting the bulbs in the fall or early spring when the weather is cooler.
Another thing to consider when planting bluebells is the soil type. Bluebells prefer a slightly acidic soil, so if you have alkaline soil, consider adding some peat moss or other organic matter to balance the pH level.
What is the Symbolism of Each Different Type of Bluebell Flower?
There are several types of bluebell blossoms you might find. Whether you call them fairy flowers, wild hyacinth, common bluebell, lady’s nightcap, cuckoo’s boots, or something else (they’re even often called harebells!), these sweet smelling flowers have a lot to offer.
Let’s break down what each of these bell shaped flowers symbolizes.
What Do Pink Bluebells Mean?
Pink bluebells are rare but have an extraordinary meaning. These lovely pink blooms embody sweetness, admiration, and gratitude. They also represent gentleness, kindness, and affection.
So, if you want to express admiration or thanks to someone special, then pink bluebells are the perfect choice.
What is the Spanish Bluebell Meaning?
Spanish bluebells are unique and vibrant. These deep bluebells represent constancy and everlasting love. They also symbolize stability and steadfastness, making them the perfect flower for a long-lasting relationship.
If you want to show your partner that your love is forever, then the Spanish bluebells are the perfect choice.
What is the Purple Bluebells Flower Meaning?
Purple bluebells are intriguing and mysterious. Purple represents royalty, luxury, and ambition. These flowers are associated with creativity, spiritual growth, and the power of healing.
If you’re struggling with emotional or mental stress, then purple bluebells can help you find peace and comfort.
Pale Blue Bluebells Symbolic Meaning
Pale blue bluebells are subtle and enchanting. These flowers represent serenity, tranquility, and calmness.
They also symbolize purity, clarity, and innocence. Pale bluebells are the perfect choice if you want to create a serene and peaceful atmosphere at your home.
What is the English Bluebell Special Meaning?
English bluebells hold a unique and special meaning. The bluebell is the national flower of England and represents humility and constancy. It’s also associated with everlasting love, purity, and gratitude. It’s believed that walking through a bluebell forest brings good luck, as it wards off evil spirits.
What Do White Bluebells Symbolize?
White bluebells represent purity, innocence, and humility. White is a symbol of purity, kindness, and honesty. These flowers also signify new beginnings, making them the perfect centerpiece for weddings, christenings, or any new chapter of life.
What is the Cultural Significance of a Bluebell?
The bluebell is a flower that, though simple in nature and appearance, is entrenched in deep cultural significance. In Scotland, for example, the flowers are actually referred to as “harebells.” This is because it was believed that witches turned themselves into hares and hid among these flowers.
In Victorian culture, bluebells were viewed as a way to communicate your feelings and thoughts – usually, those related to humility – to others. This is probably because the flowers appear to bow modestly as they tip down on the flower spikes.
Bluebells were often used to call in fairies, too. You could “ring” a bluebell like you would a normal bell and the fairies would come to you. However, there was also a superstition that if you heard a bluebell ring, somebody close to you could die.
Therefore, during medieval times, bluebells were feared when they were viewed growing en masse in a field. Most people would stay far away from these fields as a result, wary that fairies would cast a bad luck spell upon you if you got any closer!
What is the Symbolism of a Bluebell Tattoo?
Usually, this delicate flower, when chosen as a tattoo, will symbolize gratitude, humility, and enduring love. Gratitude tends to be the most common meaning, however, but enduring love is often chosen as a symbol for a tattoo when it is paired with someone’s name.
When Should You Give Someone a Bluebell?
Bluebell flowers tend to bloom in late April to early May, making them a good flower to give to somebody at this time.
*Photo by PantherMediaSeller/depositphotos
