For the Love of Lilacs

If you believe Greek mythology then we all have Pan to thank for the beautifully fragrant lilac bush. His unwanted pursuit of the nymph Syringa lead the desperate nymph to transform herself into a syringa bush or lilac.

Apparently, taking the form of tree or bush was not an uncommon way of spurning unwanted advances in ancient Greece. Syringa joins Daphne who chose to transform herself into a bay laurel to escape Apollo. Syringa's dramatic metamorphosis takes the cold shoulder to a whole other level. Oddly enough Lilacs are considered a symbol of early love.

Mythology aside, lilacs are among my very favorite flowers and the few weeks they are available each year, a season to be savored big bunches at a time.