Almond tree: Genesis 43:11

Broom Tree: 1 Kings 19:4-5

Cedar of Lebanon: 1 Kings 5:10 2 Kings 19:23 Psalm 92:12

Ebony tree: Ezekiel 27:15

Lily: Hosea 14:5

Mulberry tree: Luke 17:6

Myrrh: Psalm 45:8

Rose of Sharon (likely a crocus): Song of Solomon 2:1-3

Willow tree: Leviticus 23:40 Isaiah 44:4 Ezekiel 17:5

Best in show: Passion Flower

The Passion Flower is the most poignant plant for our Lent and Easter season since it reveals the complexity of Christ’s sufferings. This plant (native to the tropical Americas) has fascinating symbolism which was first captured by a Mexican friar, Emmanuel de Villegas. In 1610 he made drawings and a report showing that the Passion Flower symbolism included:

• The spiralled tendrils: the lash of Christ’s scourging.
• The central flower column: the pillar of the scourging.
• The 72 radial filaments: the crown of thorns.
• The top three stigma: three nails.
• The lower five anthers: the five wounds.
• The style: the sponge moistening Christ’s lips with vinegar.
• The leaves (some species): the head of the centurion’s spear.
• The red stains: the drops of Christ’s blood.
• The round fruit: the world that Christ came to save.
• The fragrance: the spices prepared by the women.

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