A field of bluebells in Dorset

A field of bluebells in Dorset
The bluebell has many names, but those who know it as the 'fairy flower' may be the best prepared to withstand its strong, sweetly scented allure. In British folklore, the 'bluebell woods,' like this bluebell-carpeted hillside in Dorset, is the realm of the fairies. For just a few weeks every spring, these enchanting flowers bloom. According to the legend, a blooming bluebell carpet is a mystical place with a hint of menace. The tales hold that fairies hang their spells on the flowers to dry, and disturbing them would unleash the magic.

In earlier times, children were warned that picking bluebells would cause them to be spirited away. The truth of the matter is that bluebells are considered toxic. Ancient folktales about fairies were a good way to make sure curious humans avoided handling them – but enjoying the sight of their beauty is a perfectly safe form of enchantment.