Plants in the National Symbolism of European Countries: A Link among Countries, Cultures, and Religions

Abstract

The article analyzes the plant species included in the national symbols of European countries -  national coats of arms, emblems and officially accepted symbolic elements. The study is based entirely on literary sources, thematically divided into four areas: botany and phytogeography, world and European heraldry; national symbols and emblems and the Web of Science and Research Gate information platforms. The study establishes the vectors of spread of plant species as a symbolic elements in the countries of Europe as a result of cultural, commercial, religious and scientific connections. Moreover, the continuity of the abiotic factors of the environment (terrestrial biomes) allows plant species to cross the borders of Europe and pass into Asia. The discovered similarities, continuity and duplication of a number of plant-based symbolic elements in countries of both continents are proof of a common past, a shared culture and are an ideal basis for achieving understanding between peoples speaking different languages and professing different religions.