#slipperwort

Slipperwort (Calceolaria) - (financial) support, all I have is yours

Originating from the plains of South America, this positively precious little plant is known as Slipperwort, Lady’s Purse, of Pocketbook for its delightfully puffy slipper-like pocket flowers. The Darwin’s Slipper (Calceolaria uniflora) was made known to the western world by - who else - Charles Darwin, who found it growing on Tierra Del Fuego during his travels on the Beagle.

As captivating as this plant is, both in appearance and in symbolic meaning, not much has been written about it. It is known as a fun houseplant that can be difficult to keep alive, but I was able to find it mentioned in only one of my many books on floriography. A shame, because I find it a potentially very moving symbol in this day and age: in a time where money does more shouting than speaking, it’s up to those of us who try to fight the good fight to use whatever support we are able to give to causes which we believe to be worthy and true. There are powerful people who seek to do harm, who believe that what they have and are able to hold on to is what makes them strong. They don’t know, or don’t wish to know, that it is gracious giving that gives us true strength. Please, in whichever way you are able, make sure to perform charitable, loving acts as well and as often as you can.

Regina | missnaturess