The skeleton flower is one of Mother Nature's most beloved gifts. These beautiful plants are known for their fragility, unique beauty and elegant appearance.
Its scientific name is Diphylleia grayi, and it represents a fascinating and extraordinary genus of plants.
It has a very surprising secret due to its chemical composition, something unique in pigmentation that It produces a spectacular transformation when its petals are moistened.
The pigmentation of the flower fades very quickly and The petals that seemed so delicate magically become almost transparent. hence its name.
Finally, when the petals are completely dry, the skeleton flower undergoes another great transformation and is that they return to their original color, completing this magical transformation.
They are native to mountainous regions of Japan and China, and are presented as treasures with rich cultural significance.
Although they have spread to many places around the world, there are several types of skeleton flowers, each with its own unique characteristics. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of the skeleton flower and other curiosities.
Skeleton flower and curiosities
The skeleton flower belongs to the Berberidaceae family, is perennial and is related to the North American mandrake.
Also It is known as “crystal flower” for having that extraordinary property when it comes into contact with water and its petals become transparent.
Its scientific name comes from the Greek “di” and “phyllon” which translates as “two leaves”. This is due to the appearance of its leaves in pairs and the word “grayi” is a way of referring to it. a tribute to Samuel Frederick Gray, botanist who dedicated himself to the study of plants and vegetables during the 19th century.
It is a prominent plant in Asian cultures in Japan it is used for traditional practices such as ikebana (the art of floral arrangement that fuses nature, aesthetics, and creativity is called) and hanami, (it is an ancient celebration tradition to welcome spring after the long winter months).
In Korea and China the flower is used in rituals that symbolize purity and impermanence.
The skeleton flower is also used in the art of tattooing for its symbolism and beauty, It often appears accompanied by ferns and butterflies.
The meaning represents personal growth and transformation, the opaque to transparent flower is associated with letting go of past identities, bringing out the revelation of the true self.
These flowers are known for their unique appearance: They have delicate, thin, translucent leaves that look like crystals or jewels. They are white or deep pink in colour, visible both in silhouette and in transparency. This plant is perfect for decorating interiors, especially rooms with lots of light.
Characteristics of the skeleton flower
Skeleton flowers have several unique characteristics that make them special. One of the most well-known aspects is their fragility, which makes them a very delicate and precious treasure.
This fragility means that the flowers They cannot be touched and manipulated like other plants without the risk of damaging them. This flower evolved as a deciduous perennial that dies back in winter. It develops large, umbrella-shaped leaves that later appear topped by clusters of flowers.
In summer the petals fall off quickly but there is no need to worry because they are quickly replaced.
At this time it develops abundant bright blue berries. It is a plant that reaches a height of 40 cm and a width of approximately one metre. It is very easy to maintain and is not usually affected by pests or diseases.
Environmental conditions for its growth
It is a flower that grows very healthy In shady gardens and wooded areas, it needs partial shade since direct sunlight can damage its petals, which are very delicate.
The soil has to be very rich in humus, clayey and well drained, with plenty of moisture.
It is important to protect them from the midday sun so that they grow properly. The sunlight it receives must be in the early hours of the morning..
As for irrigation, it needs a lot of humidity. During periods of drought you have to water it deeply; the ideal is to use drip irrigation.
It needs a cool climate and likes humid air, will not grow properly in a hot, dry climate. The plant dies back in winter and needs a cold period to re-establish itself.
But, even during cold climates, it is important to cover the plant with a thick layer of organic mulch to protect their roots from frost, which can be fatal.
Advantages of having the flowers that read everything in your garden
- They are flowers that thrive in the shade enhancing dark spaces and providing colour to those areas of the garden.
- Attract pollinators providing them with food in early spring and supporting biodiversity.
- They are flowers that symbolize resilience, the balance between life and death, so they add beauty and cultural meaning to your garden.
Uses of the skeleton flower
It is a plant used in medicine in some Asian cultures, although its effectiveness is not scientifically proven, as a natural remedy for some ailments and for the manufacture of some natural dyes.
It is also very popular for having a rich history as an herbal medicine used for its digestive health benefits and reducing inflammation.
In traditional Mexican medicine, the leaf of the skeleton flower It is used in the form of a poultice to relieve muscle pain.
It is also used as a cleanser for cuts and abrasions, as anesthetic properties have been reported in the flower leaf.
This practice dates back to pre-Hispanic times, and several scientists are studying it to understand how it is composed and what its benefits are.
physiological effects.
It is currently in danger of disappearing. Because their natural habitat is being destroyed due to deforestation activities, it is therefore very important to raise awareness and protect their natural environment to ensure the long-term survival of this species and others.
Finally, The skeleton flower is one of nature's most valued gifts. Thanks to its unique characteristics, such as its fragility, adaptation to different environments and usefulness in traditional medicine, it is a treasure to be appreciated and respected. Therefore, we all have to be aware and take care of its habitat so that it continues to exist.