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Introduction |
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Lilacs and the settlement of the west Though there are 20 species of wild lilacs, most people recognize just one — the common lilac (Syringa vulgaris). This Balkan native travelled here with the early settlers and was planted near the door of homesteads and cabins across much of North America. Pale purple and sweetly scented, it is the parent of both the French hybrids (double and single) and the Hyacinthiflora hybrids. Lilacs and love In some cultures, people feel that lilacs are just as effective as daisies when it comes to predicting love. Eating a 5-petaled floret without choking is the lilac equivalent of "He loves me", and forcing a twig cut on December 4 into bloom before Christmas is said to fortell a desired marriage. |
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Lilacs and luck In early folklore, lilacs are often associated with good luck. Along with their hardiness, this may be the reason why they were brought from Europe by ship and wagon and carefully planted near the doorway of so many pioneer homes. Watch as you drive through the countryside at lilac-time — lilacs blooming in fencerows and fields are often the only remaining sign of the site of former homesteads.
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