Lily (Period)

The lily is a flower with a stylized heraldic form.  It was the flower of the Virgin Mary and was a symbol of purity and virtue; in period heraldry, though not found as early as the rose, it was second only to the rose in popularity.  Lilies are found in the arms of Mayo, 1504 [Parker 371].

Though possibly related in origin to the fleur-de-lys, the two were considered distinctly different charges by the end of period:  the grant of arms to Eton College, 1449, has both lilies and a fleur-de-lys, so specified [Hope 67].

Society armory also includes examples of more naturalistic lilies, distinguished in blazon by their breed:  e.g., “arum lily” or “tiger lily”.  These are drawn as found in nature, but no heraldic difference is granted for them.  See also iris, tulip.

Rothin in flamska bears:  Or, a lily gules.

Alais Llewella du Bois bears:  Per pale argent and vert, two lilies slipped and leaved counterchanged.

Leonora Monadh bears:  Vert, three lilies and a bordure Or.

Susannah of York bears:  Argent, a lily slipped and leaved purpure.