| 17 October 2004
The plant most often associated with Halloween, is the pumpkin. Other plants and herbs have also been associated with this holiday, however. Allspice for example, was used to convey prosperity, benevolence, charity, and helpfulness. Rosemary was placed over the cradles of babies to protect them on Halloween, and year round. It was often burned with Juniper and Thyme to cleanse a room of witches and bad spirits. Rue was also used to ward off evil spirits by being hung from doorways and windows.
Salvia, or Meadow Sage, was considered a symbol of immortality. When planted on graves in cemeteries, this perennial was believed to give the dead "eternal life."
Jasmine, supposedly full of magical properties, was said to be a culinary delight among deities.
Having many meanings; favorable mystery, anonymous gift or admirer, new friendship, it is also said to bring unfavorable news: things that seem too good to be true, or a warning to use caution in your dealings. For plants with more of a Halloween appearance, rather than folkloric uses, Amorphophallus makes a great centerpiece or decoration. With it’s exotic appearance, and shades of red or purple, it will make quite an impression.
A tree with a ghostly appearance is the Bristlecone Pine. That is, if you’re lucky enough to find one this far south. They are more commonly found in Northern Arizona.
Another “Halloween plant” is the Ophrys Speculum. A member of the Orchid family, the Ophrys looks like an insect or spider, with a “fuzzy” appearance to their petals.