It's such a joy to see the May blossom out. The Hawthorn trees are full of creamy white flowers, in hedgerows and in gardens. We once had a pink version which was very pretty.
Did you know that it is supposed to bring bad luck to have the branches in the house? I didnt, until years ago I picked some to mix with lilac, and was told by my neighbour that it would be unlucky. I'm afraid i took little notice, and the vase of blossom looked beautiful!
I always thought, as a child, that the bright green leaves looked edible, though I dont think I tried them. They can be eaten and were sometimes called 'Bread and cheese'.
The blossom and the berries (Haws) can be used to make jellies.
On a hill overlooking Glastonbury there is a Thorn tree which is supposedly descended from the original Holy Thorn. Legend has it that Joseph of Arimathea came to the hill, thrust his staff into the earth, and a Thorn tree sprouted. Strangely this tree blooms twice , once in May and once at Christmas.
For me, it's just one of the loveliest signs of Spring, a hedge overflowing with abundant creamy blossom.
0 Yorumlar