Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—L

Lily of the Valley

The Convallaria majalis (the May valley plant); one of the species is Solomon's seal. It is by no means the case that the Convallaria grow only in valleys, although they prefer shady places.

This is not the lily (Matt. vi. 28) which is said to excel “Solomon in all his glory.” The Lilium Candidum is the flower alluded to by our Lord; a tall majestic plant, common in Palestine, and known by us as the Garden Lily. It is bellshaped, with white petals and golden yellow stamens. Jahn (& Archaeologia; Biblica, p. 125) tells us that “at festivals the rich and powerful robed themselves in white cotton, which was considered the most splendid dress.”

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Lily Maid of Astolat
Lily
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