The history of the iris flower is very rich and varied. In Greek mythology, Iris was the Queen of the gods’ (Hera’s) personal messenger. She was also the embodiment of the rainbow.  Her swift wings we renowned for their speed and she had the uncanny ability to be where she was mostly needed at the right time.

Ancient Egyptian kings marveled in the iris’s exotic nature, and drawings have been found of the flower in a number of Egyptian palaces and tombs. These flowers were used as adornments for the war chariots of heroes and were given as gifts to lovers and gods.

During the middle Ages, the meaning of irises became linked to the French monarchy, as the Fleur-de-lis (stylized design of the iris) eventually became the recognized national symbol of France. From their earliest years in Europe, irises were used to make perfume as well as medicinal remedies.

Today, they are mostly seen in gardens, in bouquets, and in the wild all over the world. The flower which bears the name of the Greek goddess can be used in bouquets and arrangements to convey a special message to your loved one and appear just when she/he needed it most.