SafePlants

Prince of Wales Feathers: A Symbol Through Time

The "Prince of Wales Feathers" is not a plant, but rather a heraldic badge associated with the Prince of Wales, the heir apparent to the British throne. This symbol has a rich history and appears in various contexts, from pub names to decorative arts.

Considerations for Children

• The Prince of Wales Feathers symbol is found on decorative items and jewelry, some of which may contain small parts like diamonds and pearls, posing a potential choking hazard for young children.

Considerations for Pets

• The Prince of Wales Feathers symbol can be found on a variety of objects, including charms, cufflinks, and decorative items. Small objects, or those made of materials like pewter or cast iron, could be tempting but dangerous for pets to ingest.

Historical Significance

• The badge consists of three silver or white ostrich feathers rising through a gold coronet. The motto "Ich Dien" (I serve) is often associated with the emblem.
• The use of the three ostrich feathers dates back to the 14th century. Edward, the Black Prince, is traditionally credited with adopting the badge after the Battle of Crecy.
• Prince Charles is the 21st holder of the title of Prince of Wales, which began in 1301.

Uses of the Symbol

• The Prince of Wales Feathers symbol is used on a variety of items, including:
  • Pub signs
  • Jewelry (brooches, cufflinks, pendants, charms)
  • Furniture (chairs, bowls)
  • Textiles (cushions, ties)
  • Motorbike helmet stickers
  • Letter openers
  • Hip flasks
  • Vinyl decals
  • Silicone molds
• The symbol is also associated with Welsh identity and is featured on the badge of the National Rugby Union team of Wales.

Quirky Facts

• While the Prince of Wales Feathers is distinct from the fleur-de-lis, both have appeared in decorations on furniture, sometimes leading to confusion between the two.
• Owain Glyndwr, a medieval Welsh soldier also known as Owen Glendower, is said to have worn a scarlet flamingo feather as his crest, predating the common association with ostrich feathers.

Nomenclature

• The text mentions a plant, Leptopteris, also called "Prince-of-Wales feather" in New Zealand. It has pinnate fronds and densely woolly stalks. The text also contains reference to another plant, Amaranthus hypochondriacus which grows to 1.2m (4ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in).