It’s the new growth… that bears the blooms!
The Lily of the Valley Shrub, also known as Pieris Japonica, is a lovely evergreen shrub and early bloomer, belonging to the Heath family. It’s a joy to see and smell these pendulous, sweet, fragrant bells, especially during Lent.
From of old…. the teardrop shape flowers of both the Lily of the Valley bulb plant, and the Pieris Japonica shrub, are said to poignantly symbolize the tears that Eve shed upon leaving the Garden of Eden, and the Virgin Mary’s tears shed at the cross of Christ.
She is the flower of the field from whom bloomed the precious lily of the valley. ~ St. Augustine
Sometimes, a glimpse of Paradise is right outside our back door!
Happy Lenten Spring!
