The importance of flowers can be felt all over the world. They not only add a splash of color to nature and people’s home gardens, but they also serve some very vital roles. Flowers help feed insects and birds, assist pollinators such as bees, and some even provide the raw materials for medicines that humans need. It’s for all these reasons why we think people should take the time to celebrate National Plant A Flower Day, a holiday that’s celebrated on March 12th every year.

The History Of National Plant A Flower Day

Unfortunately, the history of National Plant A Flower Day eludes us. It seems to be a holiday that has been lost to the mists of time. We will continue to search for the origins of this holiday, but we’re afraid that it’s probably lost and will never be uncovered.

Some Fun Facts About Flowers

Since we couldn’t uncover the origin of this holiday, we thought we’d take the time to talk about some of the fun facts about flowers that we uncovered during our research. So without further ado, below are some facts everyone celebrating this holiday is probably going to want to know.

• During the 17th century, tulip bulbs were more valuable than gold.
• People used to burn aster leaves to ward off evil spirits.
• Saffron comes from a type of crocus flower.
• Approximately 60% of fresh-cut flowers grown in the United States come from California.
• A cup of dandelion greens can provide up to 13,000 I.U. of Vitamin A.
• Moonflowers bloom only at night.
• Sunflowers follow the movement of the sun from east to west.
• Yarrow was used on soldiers’ wounds during WWI.
• The world’s oldest known flower is from northeast China, called Archaefructus Sinensis.
• Archaefructus Sinensis bloomed over 125 million years ago.
• Tulip bulbs can be used as a fine onion substitute in most recipes.
• Roses are in the same family of plants as apples, peaches, plums, and almonds.
• Pickled marsh marigold is sometimes used as a capers substitute.
• Angelica was used for warding off evil spirits and as a cure for various ailments.

Observing National Plant A Flower Day

National Plant A Flower Day can be celebrated by taking the time to plant a flower of your choice. You should choose a flower that’s appropriate for your climate and fits your tastes, but those are the only two requirements for this holiday. Planting flowers can be a great way to thank Mother Nature for everything she does. It’s also a great way to contribute to the world in a meaningful way. And while you’re planting flowers for this holiday, don’t forget to use the hashtag #NationalPlantAFlowerDay to encourage other people to do the same.