During a break between winter storms I went walking in the woods checking on the flowering status of the cyclamen which at their peak create fairyland pink-white carpets between the trees.
The cyclamen were still more leaves (delightfully heartshaped) than flowers on this particular day but to my great joy I came across a patch of mandrakes in bloom.
This plant is more common in Israel than most people realise, but even in parts of the country where it is found one can easily overlook the humble mandrake, its broad green leaves are close to the ground and unless you are looking down carefully you can miss the small cheery purple flowers nestled within.
It's Hebrew name is "duda refui" דודא רפואי (medicinal mandrake) because since ancient times it has been used for healing purposes. Don't try eating it though, it is highly toxic. The sweet smell of the mandrake's fruits are referred to in the biblical Song of Solomon and their traditional value as a fertility treatment is alluded to in the book of Genesis. Other ancient peoples such as the Assyrians and Greeks also referred to its medicinal properties.
I however cannot see mandrake flowers without thinking of two more connections: a popular Israeli folksong and dance I learned long ago based on the verse from the Song of Solomon and the popular Israeli folk duo known simply as Hadudaim (the Mandrakes) known for their silken voices and melodic guitars.
My mother used to often play their records on the gramophone while we did chores around the house and they livened up even the dullest of activities, music to dance with the broom to or twirl with the laundry basket.
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