A bold romantic
that couples who break bay twigs in two and each take half will ensure the continuance of their love.
Mature specimens flower in delicate yellow buds in spring, and the leaves of the Laurus nobilis cultivar can of course be used for cooking.
They’re best grown in containers, so pop them on your patio to grab a handful to season your cooking with.
SYMBOLS OF LOVE
Flowers make great love symbols and sentimental gifts because of personal connections we form with them.
For instance, Myrtus communis (myrtle) is a charming aromatic shrub that flowers in autumn. It has no affiliations with romantic gestures, but sticks in my mind because it was used in the late Princess Diana’s wedding bouquet.
This unassuming evergreen is brilliant to grow in the garden and supplies a subtle floral display once summer favourites have died off.
AROMATIC OPTIONS
Grow Jasmine in the home for an amazing indoor aroma. Research suggests scents can summon memories for years to come – this one is found in most perfumes because it is said to produce a euphoric response.
You’ll find charming jasmine hoops
in garden centres now because, though typically summer flowering, jasmine are set for a cool six weeks or so in autumn to spur buds into early February blooms. Jasminum nudiflorum (winter jasmine) produces delightful bright yellow flowers 2.5cm in width, and a burst of fragrance. For long-lasting displays, orchids will persist longer than any cut flowers you can buy. These exotic ornamental houseplants symbolise love, luxury, beauty and strength and come in a spectrum of dyed and natural colours.
Contrary to their reputation for being fussy, they’re very easy to care for, once you know how.
A clear pot and regular misting will see these treasures thrive, as they don’t enjoy having covered roots submerged in water.
Position in a bright room, but not on a windowsill as direct sunlight and drafts cause damage.
So, for flowers that speak volumes,