The Alpine Rhododendron (Rhododendron ferrugineum), also known as the Alpine Rose, has become a symbol of life, death, and endurance. According to legend, it blooms where the mountains have claimed a life, and death adorns itself with its branches. Sleeping beneath its bushes is said to bring prophetic visions, likely due to its toxicity. Shamans of Siberia and the Far East used it to induce trance states, while the Ossetians believed it could evoke prophetic dreams. In some myths, it represents loyalty and love, and its ability to flourish in the harshest conditions has made it an embodiment of nature’s unyielding strength.
The Stemless Gentian (Gentiana acaulis), also known as the Trumpet Gentian or Alpine Gentian, is a symbol of the Alps and nature’s endurance. It thrives at altitudes of up to 3,000 meters, withstanding harsh climates, strong winds, and poor soils. Its vivid blue flowers, resembling fragments of the Alpine sky scattered across the mountain slopes, attract bees and butterflies, while its root has been used in folk medicine for centuries.
The Pasqueflower (Pulsatilla), also known as the Windflower
or Meadow Anemone, shrouded in mystical beliefs, is closely linked to the figure of Baba Yaga in Slavic mythology. She used it to control dreams, erase memories, travel between worlds, and gain ancient knowledge. In some myths, the plant was believed to induce prophetic dreams and even enable magical flights.
Despite its toxicity, when properly prepared, the Pasqueflower was used in folk medicine to promote calmness, treat insomnia, and ease nervous disorders. It was considered a key to balance between soul and nature, capable of taming both storms in the world and in the human heart. Blooming right after the snow melts, it became a symbol of survival and rebirth.
The Martagon Lily (Lilium martagon), also known as the Turk’s Cap Lily or Mountain Lily, is a flower of fairies and a symbol of rebirth.
In Swiss legends, the Martagon Lily was believed to be the favorite flower of mountain fairies, who protected the places where it grew. Finding such a meadow was considered a sign of their favor and protection.
In Greek mythology, the lily was said to have originated from the milk of the goddess Hera, symbolizing divine purity and motherhood.
In Christian tradition, it represents spiritual beauty and eternal life, and in some sources, it is associated with rebirth and immortality.
The Alpine Snowbell (Soldanella alpina), also known as the Mountain Violet,
is a delicate yet resilient flower of the Alps. Its elegant purple bell-shaped blossoms emerge as soon as the snow begins to melt, sometimes pushing through its lingering remains. This flower symbolizes the awakening of nature, hope, and renewal after
a long winter.
The Houseleek (Sempervivum), also known as Jupiter’s Beard
or Thor’s Beard, is a natural lightning rod and a symbol of renewal.
According to ancient beliefs, planting it on rooftops protected homes from lightning strikes and fires. In Roman mythology, it was called "Barba Jovis" (Jupiter’s Beard) and was considered a gift from the thunder god. In Scandinavian traditions, it was associated with Thor and was similarly known as "Thor’s Beard".
The Houseleek thrives in the harshest conditions, storing moisture in its thick leaves. It blooms only once in its lifetime, after which the mother rosette dies, giving way to new growth—making it a symbol of sacrifice and renewal. Due to its healing and antiseptic properties, the plant was used in folk medicine to treat burns, wounds, and insect bites. People say it can even heal the wounds of the mountains.