The edelweiss is a common alpine flower, which is often seen growing beneath mountain cliffs. It is a member of the sunflower family, and its name edel means ‘noble’ and weiss means ‘white’ in German. This flower is therefore a symbol of purity and noble whiteness.

This too is a short small plant, only growing up to about 12 inches, with silver leaves that seem to be covered in wool. Its white star shaped flower grows in clusters of three or four.

The dense hair that covers the leaves is its adaptation against the cold and ultraviolet radiation in its harsh environment.