A popular name for the buttercup (cf. CROWFOOT). b. Applied by Gerarde to the Ragged Robin (Lychnis Flos-cuculi); by Tannahill app. to the wild hyacinth or bluebell (Scilla nutans); also in some parts to Caltha palustris and Geranium sylvaticum.
1597. Gerarde, Herbal, II. clxxxv. 608. Called in English Crow floures, Wilde Williams, Marsh Gilloflours and Cockow Gellofloures.
1602. Shaks., Ham., IV. vii. 170. With fantasticke Garlands did she come, Of Crow-flowers, Nettles, Daysies, and long Purples.
1806. E. Rushton, Poems, 56.
| At her side speckled daisies and crow flowers abounded, | |
| To its inmost recess her poor heart has been wounded. |
a. 1810. Tannahill, Gloomy Winter’s now awa’. Sweet the crawflower’s early bell Decks Gleniffer’s dewy dell.
1820. Clare, Poems Rural Life (1821), 34. From crow-flower’s golden cup.
