Plant Lore, Legends, and Lyrics / Embracing the Myths, Traditions, Superstitions, and Folk-Lore of the Plant Kingdom

This work collects traditional beliefs, myths, superstitions, and ceremonial uses associated with plants from a wide range of cultures, arranged as a concise digest followed by a fuller survey. It treats cosmological world-trees, paradisiacal trees and forbidden-fruit motifs, sacred and ritual plants, floral ceremonies and garlands, plants tied to Christian festivals and saints, the flora of fairies and water-spirits, woodland nymphs and tree-spirits, and plants associated with demonic or unlucky lore. The compilation draws on Continental and Asian sources, contains curious illustrations, and provides extensive references to classical and folkloric authorities.