This flower is not a marigold at all. Neltje Blanchan writes that it is during the Middle Ages when it was probably named Marigold. Its early Spring arrival may be the reason it is suppose to be one of the blossoms devoted to the Virgin Mary during church festivals. It is the flower that Shakespeare is refering to in "Cymbleline", when the musicians sing "And winking Mary-buds begin to ope their golden eye" . Neltje goes on to say that in April, in Avon, the watery meadows twinkle with Marsh Marigolds.
Pat found this flower in 1942 and called it Cowslip, another of its names.
Such an absolutely beautiful flower. I had no idea that there was so much history surrounding this little beauty and that it had more than one name. This was a very informative post Wild Bee. Thank you!
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