Vervain
This little plant was used in the Fens, an area known for flooding problems traditionally, to help find drowned bodies as it was believed to help attract eels to the place where the body lay. Reputedly used to staunch Christ's wounds at Calvary it was never gathered without making the sign of the Cross first. Roman soldiers carried this perennial with them into battle for protection. Pale lilac flowers can be seen on sparsely-leafed upright stems. It has a slightly bitter taste and is unscented. It was believed that it possessed magical powers and strong aphrodisiac qualities too. Heavily used in various rites and incantations - it is believed associated with witchcraft and sorcery.

Violet
A flower of ill omen generally. Apparently wearing this around your neck can prevent drunkenness, but be careful as it is also believed to encourage fleas to move into the home. Violets originally warned of epidemic or death. Blooming in the autumn the small dark green leaves and beautiful purple flowers require shaded moist ground that has been undisturbed for some time to flourish. Yet if they do bloom in the autumn this is said to be a death omen?