Perhaps an odd time of year to talk about the Crocus but I have thoughts that don’t always abide by the calendar. I mentioned Crocuses in my post yesterday and then I looked at some images of Crocuses in my Flowers & Insects Gallery and here we are! Of course, I tend to ramble on into other topics so I really don’t know where I’m going with this just yet. (Speaking of my tendency to ramble on, did anyone else think of Led Zeppelin’s “Ramble On” when I wrote the phrase?) It’s just how my mind works. It’s a gift and a curse.
Spring bling is the Crocus
If there is one symbol of Spring that stands head and shoulders (dandruff shampoo) above all others, it would be the Crocus. What an amazing little plant! It can take the bleakest of landscapes and transform it into a view of brilliance and joy. Some people have that effect when they enter a gathering. Be the Crocus!
And speaking of joy, the Crocus is symbolic of joy. Additionally, rebirth, innocence, and romantic devotion.
The Crocus is so incredible. It has some of the most delicate petals but is able to survive some fairly harsh conditions. Icy crust to break through, freezing temperatures, snowfall and blasting winds. An amazing plant.
I planted a dozen Crocus bulbs randomly in an area of my yard years ago. They pop up every spring in the brown grass and make me smile.
Just mad about saffron
Donovan. Mellow Yellow. But speaking of saffron, did you know the Crocus is the source of saffron? I did not. The stigma, the structure in the center of the Crocus, holds loads of pollen that is the source of saffron. Additionally, the pollen is used to make a strong yellow-orange dye.
One other thing about the early blooming Crocus, it is also a source of pollen for bees in early spring. The bee pictured below is one I can’t identify, but would you look at the set of chompers on that thing! I believe it is some tiny variant of a leaf cutter bee. Before I captured this little bugger in an image, I had never seen such a small bee. Very interesting. If you know anything about this little bee critter thingy, drop a line. I’d love to hear more about it.
Colors of the Crocus
I did not know this either but each color of this determined flower is symbolic of certain things. Colors can range from deep purple (and, yes, I just thought of the song “Hush”) to white. The color purple is associated with royalty and personal success. Red is symbolic of romance. Pink is more in tune with innocence and friendship. The white Crocus is often used at weddings, a symbol of purity.
I’m tapped out
I think that’s all I know about this flower. I’m most impressed with the Crocus’ symbolism of rebirth. Starting anew. I can relate that to my life and the chapters I’ve lived through. Each new chapter is like a rebirth. And as life goes on, I can expect there will be new chapters, just like the Crocus marks seasons of change. The Crocus is a survivor. It weathers tough conditions and moves forward. Relentless in its determination to live and survive. Marking the change in seasons as much as being the change. A blast of color in a monotone world. My wish for you is to be the Crocus. Peace.
