History and Uses:

Lilies are among the oldest cultivated plants. In Asia Minor, during the second millennium BC, the bulb of the madonna lily was cultivated for use in a medicinal ointment; the ancients raised the bulbs of this species for food. The Greeks and Romans grew it for ornamental and medicinal purposes.

The story behind the lily:

Throughout the ages, the lily has had many associated meanings. However, the most commonly associated mythological meaning is the story of Zeus and Hera. This myth gave the lily the meaning that it still holds today: rebirth and fertility. The story goes that Zeus wanted baby Hercules to drink Hera’s milk. In ancient Greek mythology, these flowers were believed to have sprung from the milk of the goddess Hera, symbolizing purity and renewal.

Symbolize/ Spiritual Meaning:

Over the years, lilies have come to present purity, life, and remembrance. The lily symbolizes purity, rebirth, new beginnings, and hope in the Bible.

Why are lilies special?

Lilies are huge showy flowers, with some having a strong fragrance. Many species are native to the Northern Hemisphere and grow well in subtropical climates in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9. This is characterized by its members’ unique structure of six petals and six stamens.