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If this plant flowers twice a year it is said that a death will occur in the household.

Rose
A flower of mixed associations. If the petals of a rose are consciously scattered on the ground it is thought to be unlucky, and if the petals fall from the plant when it is being held it is said that the person will die. Also if it flowers in the autumn then it is likely that misfortune will follow the next year. The Romans decorated the tombs of the dead with roses as it was believed that this custom would protect the dead from evil spirits. The rose of course is today seen as a symbol of love and has been used in divination. The wrapping of a rose in a clean piece of white paper on Midsummer Eve is a divination custom. It should be kept until Christmas, and then if it has remained intact it should be worn by a girl in a buttonhole. The first man who admires it is said will become her husband.

Rosemary
It is believed that this plant grows in abundance where the woman rules the home but it is probably best to say that the strong flavoured evergreen shrub is associated with remembrance, with sprigs often being placed in funeral wreaths or carried at country funerals. It is aromatic and can be found across Europe and the Mediterranean, with needle-shaped leaves (blue-green, silver and gold striped varieties). It flowers in either mild winters or late spring and produces blue, white or pink flowers.

Rushes
A plant said to possess special healing powers. Traditionally viewed as lucky in Britain when found with a green top. It was used as floor covering in churches in Medieval times. Thought to possess protective qualities too.