Edelweiss
Edelweiss
Edelweiss (Leontopodium alpinum), pronounced /ˈeɪdəlvaɪs/, is a well-known mountain flower, belonging to the Aster (or Sunflower) family. The name Edelweiss is of German origin, derived from the words 'edel' meaning noble and 'weiss' meaning white.
Etymology
The term Edelweiss is a compound of two German words: "edel" (noble) and "weiss" (white). The name is a direct reference to the flower's pristine, white color and its association with the Alps, often considered a symbol of purity and nobility.
Description
Edelweiss is a perennial plant that usually grows to a height of 5–20 cm. The leaves and flowers are covered with white hairs and appear woolly. Each bloom consists of five to six small yellow clustered spikelet-florets surrounded by fuzzy white "petals" in a double-star formation. The flowers bloom between July and September.
Habitat and Distribution
Edelweiss is native to the mountains of Europe, particularly the Alps, the Carpathians, the Balkans, and the Apennines. It prefers rocky limestone places at altitudes of about 1800–3000 meters.
Cultural Significance
Edelweiss has a rich cultural history, particularly in Europe. It is a national symbol in Austria and Switzerland and has been featured in various forms of media, including the song "Edelweiss" from the musical The Sound of Music.
Related Terms
- Asteraceae: The family of flowering plants to which Edelweiss belongs.
- Alpine: Pertaining to high mountains, often specifically to the region of the Alps.
- Perennial: A term for plants that live for more than two years.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Edelweiss
- Wikipedia's article - Edelweiss
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