May Flowers, more than just flowers in may

Until yesterday I had no idea the phrase “April Showers bring May flowers” referred to a specific type of flower.
Let alone to a tradition that had been happening in the Saint John City Market, were I practically grew up, for generations. Every May someone sets up and sells these bouquets of May flowers in the market.

My father told me that he used to buy these same bouquets for my mother before I was born. When he was looking at them yesterday I had no idea they were something so special.

May Flowers

They are incredibly fragrant and lovely little blossoms. It is also known as trailing arbutus, ground laurel, winter pink, or mayflower

Alexa Clark

Alexa is a digital marketer and author with over 20 years in digital & interactive communications in the food and tech industries. Alexa's CheapEats Restaurant Guides, for both Toronto & Ottawa, were Canadian best sellers. She is a recognized authority on social media and has been named one of Canada's 20 Leading Women in Social Media.

3 thoughts on “May Flowers, more than just flowers in may

  • May 4, 2018 at 10:10 am
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    I think they are on an endangered species list?

    Reply
  • May 27, 2025 at 6:15 am
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    Living in N.B for most of my life I had never seen a may flower for many years but did occasionally get some at the Saint John Market Then about a year later, my friend and I were out walking and took a shortcut on a path . It was so exciting to smell the wonderful fragrance and finally find them near the path we were on.

    Reply
    • May 27, 2025 at 10:17 am
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      What a joy it must have been to find them along the path! Thank you SO much for sharing that.

      Reply

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