Family: Liliaceae Genus: Lilium
Species: Lilium candidum L.
Common Name(s): Madonna lily, white lily, Himalaya lily
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Lilium candidum, or white lily, was cultivated as early as 1500 BC and was likely brought to Western Europe by Phoenician traders where it spread quickly throughout much of the continent.170 The white lily has a tall, leafy floral stem, which emerges in late spring. In the summer, the plant bears pure white, sweetly fragrant flowers with yellow throats.
Cultural and Religious Significance
Lilies hold a special place in French and Canadian culture, notably as the “fleur-de-lis,” a stylized lily that symbolized the French monarchy. Before 1999, the Madonna lily was the provincial flower of Quebec, likely chosen due to its resemblance to the fleurs-de-lis on the Quebec flag. However, because the Madonna lily is not native to Quebec, it faced criticism. In 1999, it was replaced by the blue flag iris, a plant native to the province.171
This lily also holds strong religious significance. Some translations of the Bible identify the Hebrew word Shoshannah as “lily” in the
Song of Songs: “As the lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters.” (Song of Songs, 2:2). In addition, the Bible describes King Solomon’s Temple as adorned with designs of Madonna lilies on the columns, and on the brazen Sea (Laver).
The white lily also symbolizes chastity in the iconography of the Catholic Church and some of the Orthodox churches. For example, medieval depictions of the Annunciation show Gabriel the Archangel handing a white lily to the Virgin Mary. In addition, the white lily is the attribute of other chaste and virgin saints, such as Saint Joseph, Saint Anthony of Padua and Saint Maria Goretti.
Traditional Medicine and Modern Science
The white lily has long been used in dermatology to fight inflammation and used in cosmetic products. It’s also been used as an anti-viral agent to treat shingles (Herpes zoster), skin conditions, and articular diseases.172
