May 17

Birth Flower

Veronica
Speedwell

Scientific Name: Veronica spicata
Family: Plantaginaceae

Flower Language

  • faithfulness
  • honor

Characteristics

Colors:

Description

In horticulture, varieties cultivated for flower beds and cut flowers are called Veronica. Those commonly cultivated in Japan are improved varieties of Veronica ornata native to Mount Ibuki. They produce beautiful spike-like flowers and are popular as cut flowers.

Trivia

  • Named after legend of Saint Veronica
  • Long beloved as symbol of faithfulness
  • Spike-like flowers popular for cut flowers
  • Japan improved native species from Mount Ibuki

Uses

Ornamental
  • Cut flowers
  • Bedding plants
  • Border gardens
  • Potted plants
Medicinal
  • Historical use as folk medicine

Caution: Not currently used medicinally

Culinary

No culinary use

Other
  • Nectar source for bees
  • Garden design material

Toxicity

Symptoms: No toxicity reported

Peony
Tree peony

Scientific Name: Paeonia suffruticosa
Family: Paeoniaceae

Flower Language

  • wealth and honor
  • dignity
  • nobility

Characteristics

Colors:

Description

It became a boom as a garden plant in the Edo period, with cultivation books published due to its popularity. Most bloom in spring, but some varieties bloom in winter. Called the king of flowers, it captivates many with its magnificent beauty.

Trivia

  • Caused gardening boom in Edo period
  • Magnificent beauty called king of flowers
  • Important as symbol of wealth in China
  • So popular that cultivation books were published

Uses

Ornamental
  • Garden trees
  • Potted plants
  • Cut flowers
  • Bonsai
Medicinal
  • Root bark used as crude drug

Caution: Dangerous for medicinal use without specialized knowledge

Culinary

Not edible

Other
  • Cultural symbol
  • Subject of artistic works

Toxicity

Toxicity Level: Mild

Toxic Parts: Roots, Bark

Symptoms: Possible mild gastrointestinal symptoms