Cuckooflower

Cuckooflower, also known as 'Lady's-smock', is a pretty, springtime perennial which flowers from April to June and which is thought to coincide with the arrival of the first cuckoo. This makes it one of my favourite things: a harbinger of shorter nights and warmer days.

The alternative name of 'Lady's-smock' arises from the shape of the flowers. A smock refers to a garment worn by rustics but the flower may once have referred to the removal of such garments in the meadows, as man and wife lay together. Medieval cottages and hovels were not conducive to space or comfort, and a great many of our ancestors likely conceived out of doors.

Reproduction was God’s plan for humanity, and conjugal relations are not evil. Our first parents likely lay together in the Garden, yet such contact is private and should be characterised by discretion. Like our personal prayer time or quiet time, it should be secluded dignified, too sacred and special to publish and advertise.