Foxglove is a common Irish flower. It is also known as Deadman's Bells, Folk's Glove and Witch's Bells. The scientific name for foxglove is Digitalis Purpurea. Foxglove is a biennial flower that can reach up to six feet in height. The flowers hang down from the stem in white, pink or purple bunches. The flower is the source of many herbal remedies, and is also the source of the heart medication Digitalis. In improper doses, the plant can kill humans. The Irish also use the plant to heal skin conditions, headaches and ulcers. The hardy nature of the plant and its abilities to thrive in cold temperatures make it a common wildflower in Ireland. Its decorative flowers make it common in cultivated gardens.
The Yellow Flag Iris is also called Yellow Iris and Jacob's Sword. The scientific name is Iris pseudacorus, and the Irish name is Feileastram siolastrach. The plant is native to Northern Ireland; it thrives in that area's wetlands. It is the only Irish wild iris. It is also common in Britain, Northern Africa and in Mediterranean countries. The plants can reach up to five feet tall and bloom in the early summer. The flowers are bright yellow and the petals are sword-shaped. The Yellow Flag is hardy enough to be invasive in some areas. Bog drainage controls the population of the flower.
The Ox-Eye Daisy's scientific name is Leucanthemum vulgare and the Irish name is Nóinín mór. According to Celtic folklore, the daisy holds the spirit of a child who died while being born. The Ox-Eye Daisy is native to Northern Ireland and is common throughout the country. It grows in fields and along roads and riverbanks. The flower blooms from early summer to late fall. The blossoms are actually made of dozens of small yellow and white petals. The Irish used the plant as an insect repellent for their livestock. Cows and pigs do not graze on the daisy, and the bitter juice of the plant repels flies. Herbal healers used the plant to treat ulcers and skin conditions.
