Myosotis sp., Forget-me-nots were first named in English during the 15th century from the French ‘ne m’oubliez pas’. There are approximately 200 species that are found all over the world. The blue or pink flowers bloom in spring and prefer moist places but can tolerate sun and shade. The plants may be annual or perennial and have small seeds.
The flower has been a symbol to the remembrance of loved ones. A legend tells of when the Creator thought he had finished giving the flowers their colors, he heard one whisper “Forget me not!” There was nothing left but a very small amount of blue, but the forget-me-not was delighted to wear such a light blue shade.
The forget-me-not is a flower that has been used by many nations and groups as a symbol of those that they have lost at war. Throughout World War One it was used to send the message of love between individuals. The image was used in particular between soldiers and their loved ones in a commitment that they will not be forgotten.
