Alyssum

/əˈlɪsəm/ noun

Definition

A genus of small flowering plants with clusters of tiny fragrant blossoms in white, pink, or purple, commonly grown in gardens.

Etymology

From Greek 'alysson,' believed to derive from 'a-' (without) and 'lyssa' (madness), as Greeks thought the plant could cure rabies or mental illness. Originally a Mediterranean plant.

Kelly Says

Alyssum is so popular in gardens that most people don't know its weird name means 'cure for madness'—it's basically been bred so much for prettiness that we forgot about its original supposed superpower!

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