The genus name comes from the Arabic name for the plant, alkemelych. The water droplets or dew that gather on the leaves were known by the ancients as "celestial water" and used in alchemy. The common name is likely from the ancient legend of it being used to adorn the Virgin Mary. I always thought that the common name referred to the fan-like way the leaves unfold, resembling a wide cloak.

This plant should have bloomed long time ago, in late spring, so I’m not sure why it is only blooming now. The flowers are very small but what I love is that they are a wonderful chartreuse green. I love green flowers !