Verbena, with its delicate blooms and varied hues, is a captivating flower. It carries a rich tapestry of meanings and associations evolved across cultures and centuries. This article explores Verbena’s diverse symbolism, from ancient roots to modern interpretations. Understanding these meanings can deepen appreciation for this bloom.
The Core Symbolic Meaning of Verbena
Verbena holds broad symbolic meanings, often linked to positive emotions, spiritual well-being, healing, creativity, inner peace, holiness, divinity, and faith. These associations suggest its connection to spiritual awakening, purification, and tranquility. It is also tied to joy, happiness, and romance.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Verbena boasts a long and storied history, deeply intertwined with ancient cultures and their spiritual practices. The name “Verbena” derives from Latin, signifying a sacred plant used in religious ceremonies, often placed on altars. Ancient Romans considered it a holy herb, “herba sacra,” and used its branches to ritually sweep temple altars, reflecting its role in purification. Pliny the Elder, a Roman author, noted its presence on Jupiter’s altars, highlighting its esteemed status.
In ancient Egypt, Verbena was revered as “Tears of Isis,” believed to have sprung from the tears of the fertility goddess Isis as she mourned her consort Osiris. This origin story imbued the flower with divine sorrow and rebirth symbolism.
Celtic traditions also held Verbena in high regard, considering it a potent and sacred herb second only to mistletoe. They utilized it in divination, consecration, and ritual cleansing, and its common name, “Vervain,” is thought to come from Celtic words meaning “to remove stone,” linking it to kidney ailment healing. Christian lore also suggests Verbena was used to staunch the wounds of Christ after his crucifixion, earning it nicknames like “Holy Herb” or “Herb of the Cross,” connecting it to divine protection and sanctity.
Verbena in the Language of Flowers
During the Victorian era, Verbena played a distinct role within the intricate system of floriography, or the language of flowers. In this context, it primarily conveyed messages of enchantment and sensibility. A gift of Verbena could suggest the sender felt “bewitched” or “under the spell” of the recipient’s charm. Victorians also used Verbena to express a wish for the recipient’s protection and good fortune.
Certain colors of Verbena also carried specific Victorian messages. White Verbena, for instance, often conveyed a subtle request to “pray for me.” Scarlet Verbena could be used to propose “unity” or suggest joining forces against a shared challenge.
Meanings by Color
The symbolism of Verbena is further diversified by the color of its blossoms, each hue adding a unique layer of meaning.
Purple Verbena
Purple Verbena signifies royalty, elegance, pride, hope, achievement, and spiritual healing.
Red Verbena
Red Verbena conveys intense emotions, traditionally linked to respect, admiration, and deep love. It can also symbolize lust or a fiery, conquering spirit.
Pink Verbena
Pink Verbena, with its softer tones, is connected to affection, good cheer, kindness, creativity, grace, and appreciation.
White Verbena
White Verbena primarily symbolizes purity, peace, honesty, grace, perfection, and humility.
Blue Verbena
Blue Verbena evokes feelings of serenity, calmness, tranquility, openness, peace, healing, and protection.
Contemporary Interpretations and Applications
In modern times, Verbena’s historical meanings continue to resonate, influencing its use in various contemporary settings. Its delicate and intricate beauty makes it a popular choice for artwork and decorative accents in homes. Gardeners frequently incorporate Verbena into landscapes for its vibrant, clustered blooms and its ability to attract pollinators like butterflies and bees.
Verbena is also used in modern floral arrangements for celebrations and personal milestones. Its symbolic ties to protection and well-wishes make it suitable for events like weddings. Furthermore, Verbena’s historical association with spiritual and healing properties carries into modern spiritual practices, including meditation and aromatherapy, where its scent promotes relaxation and peace.