It is known in portuguese by malmequer, bem-me-quer, margarida, among others. It is a symbol of love and happiness since ancient times.

Bellis Perennis, commonly known as daisy, is a simple flower, very common on the streets of Porto, since it enjoys being close to paths and in the meadow.

Photo: Susana Martinho

Because they love the sun, they are typically vernal and represent purity (due to their white petals), innocence, tenderness, childhood, love, virginity, peace, kindness and affection.

Its ancient origin gave it many different meanings along the time.

In the middle age, women in love with a knight would put a crown of daisies around the shield of their loved one; when they wanted to accept a marriage proposal, they would wear a crown of daisies on their head.

Photo: Susana Martinho

It was believed, in ancient folk medicine, that the daisy had healing powers over ophthalmologic diseases (the name Daisy, comes from “day’s eye”). This flower was also used to cleanse and heal wounds, lower fever and to disguise white hairs.

Also, in folk tales, parents fed their kids daisies to stop them from growing, becoming midgets, since this featured was very appreciated in the court for entertainment.

Nowadays, people in love pick the petals in search for an answer (He loves me, he loves me not) in hope that their lover’s hearts find reciprocity of feeling. It’s a fun game for all ages, passed on through generations.

Photo: Susana Martinho

Giving daisies to a person means to vow faithful and true love.

                                                                                                                                   Read in Portuguese
                                                                                                                          Author: Susana Martinho