These exotic climbing plants were a religious symbol for early Christians. They saw a resemblance in the parts of the flower to the story of Christ's suffering: The white petals represent purity; in the five anthers, the five wounds; in the three stigmas, the nails; and in the purple rays of the corolla, the crown of thorns. These large and showy flowers last just a day and close forever at night.
This photograph was taken of the first flower of the season from this plant which bloomed in my sunroom in April. What a wonder to behold after a long and cold winter! |
