Among the flowers that flourish in tropical and subtropical regions, there is a plant called "passion flower", with the scientific name Passiflora. These passionate flowers are not only beautiful, but also hold hidden stories waiting to be discovered. The Western common name of the passion flower comes from its religious symbol in the Christian tradition, which is regarded as a symbol of the suffering of Jesus. So, why is this beautiful flower named "Passion Flower"? Let’s dive into this fascinating story and explore the curious edges of this flower.
The name of the passion flower comes from the Latin word "passio", which means "suffering". In the 15th and 16th centuries, Christian missionaries in Spain saw the flower's unique structure as a symbol of Jesus' final days. Among them, different numbers and structures of petals are given specific meanings:
The number of petals symbolizes function, and the ten petals and sepals represent the ten loyal apostles (not counting Peter and Judas).
And its trumpet-shaped buds symbolize the Holy Grail. These beautiful symbols make the passion flower a symbol of faith and give this flower incomparable significance.
The color and structure of the passion flower make it not only a favorite of florists, but also a favorite of nature. The colors of these flowers are mainly white and blue, symbolizing heaven and purity. The three days the flower blooms symbolize the three years of Jesus' ministry, reflecting the profound meaning of each petal. Its unique petals, hooked vines, and plump fruits are all stunning.
Scientific research has shown that different parts of the passion flower contain a variety of chemical components, which makes them valuable in medicinal purposes. Many Passiflora species contain beta-carboline harmala alkaloids, which have been found to be associated with certain pharmacological effects, making these plants of interest in traditional medicine.
In addition, these plants are rich in many amino acids, enzymes and organic acids, which breaks through people's understanding of ordinary flowers.
In the ecological context, the passion flower definitely plays an important role. Their structure is suitable for a variety of pollinators, including bees, bats, and even hummingbirds. In the harsh environment of these flowers, a wonderful co-evolution has occurred, resulting in the larvae of many butterflies feeding exclusively on passion flowers. The mutually beneficial relationship in this ecosystem not only promotes the reproduction of plants, but also enriches biodiversity.
The passion flower is valued not only for its botanical value, but also for its cultural significance, which highlights the diversity of flowers. In different cultures, the passion flower has different names and stories. For example, in Israel, the flower is called the “bell flower,” while in India it is called Krishnakamala, which has a profound meaning. Each culture's interpretation and explanation of it makes this beautiful flower shine in the world.
The beauty of passion flower is just like the rich stories and diverse meanings behind it, weaving together into a gorgeous picture. This flower is not only a miracle of nature, but also a symbol of culture and faith. In your life, have you ever encountered such a heart-touching flower and understood its profound meaning?