Snowdrop flowers video.

Snowdrop flowers video.

Periwinkle flowers pictures.

Periwinkle flowers are derived from two genera in the apocynaceae family � the vinca, better known as the common periwinkle, and catharanthus, often called the Madagascar periwinkle. They are both relatively small species � the Madagascar variety numbering around eight, while the vinca hosts a meager five species to its name � and are strikingly similar in many ways. For instance, both have petite, five-petaled blossoms; long growing stems which can range between 3 to 30 inches above ground; and both types have glossy, bright green foliage. The Madagascar periwinkle is native to areas of southern Asia, while vinca is indigenous to Europe, Asia and Africa. The hues of these flowers can range from white and violet, to rose, pink and red.

 Both the vinca and Madagascar periwinkle flowers have become major players in the world of herbal medicine. In fact, the pharmaceutical industry has taken a great interest in the species catharanthus roseus, which has shown to have a promising effect as a treatment for both lymphoma and leukemia. Despite the modern research that has begun, this genus of periwinkle has been in use for several hundred years as a disinfectant and tranquilizer, as well as to stop blood loss and treat diabetes.

 Vinca, on the other hand, has been known to treat high blood pressure, female reproductive issues, as well as mouth ulcerations and sore throats. Despite the fact that both plants have made their way into a number of pharmaceutical brands � as well as becoming a major part of folk medicine � these blooms are considered to be quite toxic if taken in large doses. Periwinkle flowers also have their place in both myth and history alike. 

 The English botanist and herbalist Nicholas Culpeper considered these plants to be something of an aphrodisiac when shared amongst lovers, as he concluded that the goddess of love, Venus, grew and kept these plants. On a more sinister note, during the Middle Ages, flowing garlands were made of a dwarf species of periwinkle, which were then placed upon the heads of criminals who were being prepared for execution.

Periwinkle flowers have a wide variety of meanings. One of its earliest symbols is of immortality; however, in more modern times these blossoms generally represent new friendship, fidelity in long time relationships, and spiritual harmony. As a gift, these flowers are almost invariably traded between lovers and married couples, but they are also sometimes presented to friends and family members, so as to show these people that they are loved.

Snapdragon flowers pictures.

Snapdragon Flower Pictures. Scientific name: Antirrhinum majus. Snapdragon is an annual flower that children love because they can snap open the flowers like puppets. Snapdragons endure cool weather and are widely planted for winter flower colours in mild-winter areas.

Description: Snapdragons uniformly bear a whorl of flowers atop slender stalks. The best known are ones with snappable flowers, but others have open-faced flowers including double forms. Colors include white, yellow, burgundy, Red, pink, orange, and bronze.

How to grow: Plant in rich, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. Grow in full sun. Space tall varieties 12 inches apart, small varieties 6 inches apart. Pinch tips of young plants to encourage branching. For cool season bloom, plant snapdragons in September.

Propagation: Germination takes an average of eight days at 70 degrees Fahrenheit. For early bloom, sow seeds indoors six to eight weeks before setting outdoors after last frost.

Uses: Use the tall varieties for the back of the floral border and for cut flowers. Short varieties are good in borders and as edgings.

 The snapdragon flower � named after its dragon-like appearance, with �jaws� that can easily be snapped open and closed � is of the genus antirrhinum which is native to regions of the Mediterranean. These flowers, which form in whorls atop a thin stalk, can be seen in beautiful hues of burgundy, pink and red, as well as orange, white, yellow and a unique shade of bronze. Snapdragons are often classified according to height and flower form. For height, there are three types � dwarf, medium and tall. As for form, they may be seen in either their familiar �snappable� shape, or as open-faced blossoms. These flowers are considered relatively easy to grow in gardens. They take a mere eight days to germinate in warm weather, require rich, well drained soil, and only a minimal amount of coaxing to encourage flower branching.

 Although the snapdragon flower is well loved for its more interactive nature, these flowers have a long history that goes beyond being a simple floral plaything. As its otherworldly appearance may suggest, the snapdragon has long been associated with magical thinking. In Germany, if a snapdragon was hung over a baby�s bed, the child would be safe from evil spirits.

 They have also been thought to drive away witches, restore youthfulness and beauty to women, as well as bring back vigor and energy in everyone. The snapdragon flower is also considered to have a variety of uses. During the Middle Ages, these flowers were often weaved into the hair of maidens so as to make them both gracious and intriguing, and to ward off any unwanted advances. 

 They have also been used to create cooking oils � that of which is said to be nearly comparable to olive oil � as well as dyes, perfumes and medicine. These bitter tasting flowers have sometimes been used as stimulants, and turned into poultices to help heal tumours and ulcers.

The snapdragon flower has something of a dual nature when it comes to symbolism. Because of their history of cloaking women from undesirable affections, they are often thought to mean deception and denial. On the other hand, snapdragons are thought to be representative of a whimsical, gracious nature. They are also occasionally associated with strength, dignity and unique beauty. When given as a gift, these flowers may encompass either meaning, or perhaps even both � telling the recipient that you find them to be enchanting, but dangerous.