Cowslips called Pagels

26 April · Norfolk

Lore and belief

In Norfolk the cowslip was called the Pagel. Forster, writing when cowslips were common in the meadows in late April, took the name to come from the meadows where it grew best. He printed verses recalling cowslip garlands worn in every rustic hat on May morning.

This plant is called in Norfolk the Pagel, which word evidently signifies Pratingale, from prata meadows, where it most delighteth to grow.

From Forster's Perennial Calendar, p. 191. Read the original

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