Ethnobotany of the ritual plants of the Adriatic islands (Croatia) associated with the Roman-Catholic ceremonial year

Abstract

Various aspects of blessing plants in Roman Catholic churches throughout the year were recorded on 33 Croatian islands. The fieldwork was carried out by using 131 semi-structured interviews. Altogether, 74 species were mentioned. Plants are blessed mainly on Palm Sunday and St. Anthony’s Day (13th June). Flower petals are strewn in processions on Corpus Christi. In very few locations, plants are also blessed on Good Friday, St. John’s Day (24th June), and a few other occasions. A very interesting find is the blessing of thirteen herbs on some islands, mainly of northern Dalmatia. The cycle of plant blessing is adjusted to the Mediterranean climate, as plants are blessed mainly in late spring and early summer when vegetation is fully developed.