The lily traces its historic roots back to Biblical times. It's mentioned in the Old and New Testaments in association with chastity and virtue. Historically, both the Romans and the Greeks dedicated the white lily to the Madonna.
Mythological History
Greek mythology relates the lily as originating from the milk of Hera's breast (Hera is the wife of Zeus). In the Roman mythology version, Venus was jealous of the lily's beauty and caused it to sprout a pistil from the center of the flower.
Biblical Roots
Christians dedicate lilies to the Virgin Mary because of its pure connotation. They were traditionally used to represent the loss of children and martyrdom of the saints.
Elizabethan Times
While the lily has no real medical use, the Elizabethans used lilies for cleaning wounds, burns and sores and even to treat fever. Some herbalists today believe the lily has healing qualities.
Easter Lilies
Easter lilies originated in Japan. Legend has it that a soldier in World War I loved the plant and brought bulbs back to Oregon to populate the plant, and its popularity grew in the United States.
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