Forget-me-not (Myosotis)
These unassuming little flowers are among my garden favourites. The dainty flowers return every spring, becoming more abundant each year.
Blooming from April to the end of October, they are usually dressed in shades of blue, but sometimes appear in pink or white
They are a symbol of true love and remembrance. Our vets always send a small packet of forget-me-nots with a condolence note when one of our pets crosses the Rainbow Bridge.
One legend about forget-me-nots tells of a pair of sweethearts who were walking by the River Danube, when they spotted beautiful blue flowers growing on a small island in the river. The young man leapt into the water and battled through the strong current, managing to reach the island and pick some of the flowers. On his return journey, the waters proved too strong for him, and as he was being swept away, he threw the posy to his love, crying ‘Forget me not’. She wore forget-me-nots in her hair until the day she died.
The yellow centres indicate that the flowers are full of nectar. When the flower has been pollinated, the centres turn white. This indicates to bees and other pollinators, that the flowers are no longer offering nectar, the food they are seeking. The cupboard is bare, and they should look elsewhere.
Did you know that bees can count, and recognise images of human faces?
I do love forget-me-nots. We have quite a lot in bloom in our garden right now.
ReplyDeleteI didn't know that about bees. Is that both honeybees and bumble bees?
Certainly honey bees, and some bumble bees can count up to four.
DeleteI knew that about the yellow centres and the nectar, but didn't know the story of how forget-me-nots got their name. I didn't know bees could recognise faces.
ReplyDeleteClever little beasts, bees.
DeleteI did not realise the centre went white once the nectar is all gone. Our vets sends out seeds as well.
ReplyDeleteI thought that was interesting. I don't know if other flowers display similar reactions.
DeleteI did not know that about the centers of the flowers! I'll have to watch ours and see which ones are white.
ReplyDeleteI love Forget-me-nots. I thought I had them growing in my yard, but they are Bluets. Similar but the bluets are 4 petal and not 5. I had never heard the romantic legend. Always love the stuff I learn here.
ReplyDelete