SWISS HISTORY
Leontopodium alpinum, commonly called edelweiss is a well-known mountain flower, belonging to the Asteraceae (the daisy or sunflower family). The plant prefers rocky limestone places at about 1,800–3,000 metres altitude. It is non-toxic, and has been used traditionally in folk medicine as a remedy against abdominal and respiratory diseases.
(this photo was taken at the Migros Do It & Garden
where you can buy little pots of these flowers)
As a scarce, short-lived flower found in remote mountain areas, the plant has been used as a symbol for alpinism, for rugged beauty and purity associated with the Alps and is a national symbol of Switzerland. There is a folklore associated with the edelweiss in which it is stated that giving this flower as a gift to a loved one is a promise of dedication.
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