Edelweiss is regarded very highly in Switzerland where the flower is considered to be a protected species. These beautiful flowers have a woolly appearance and the Swiss enjoy their beauty during their blossom from July to September. The flower derives its name from the German words ‘edel’ which means ‘noble’ and ‘weiss’ meaning ‘white’ both of which have references to the colour of the flower.

Edelweiss is a favourite of the Swiss people and is closely associated with their life, society and culture. The significance of the flower in Swiss life is quite notable. The badge determining the rank of the generals in the Swiss army depicts edelweiss instead of stars and the flower is also considered as a mark of a true soldier. The flower also appears on the logo of an international Swiss airline. Moreover, the flower is also frequently mentioned in the popular comic book called ‘Asterix and Obelisk in Switzerland’.

Throughout history the flower has also been mentioned in the folklores, musical compositions and narratives of Switzerland. It is regarded as the ‘ultimate love charm’ and is collected by the love-struck romantics in an attempt to win over their beloved. The edelweiss tea is a cure for diarrhoea and dysentery as well as tuberculosis and diphtheria. The stark white colour and the elegant beauty of the flower are believed to symbolize purity and innocence in Switzerland and therefore the flower is declared the national flower of the country.