Palm Sunday: Green Traditions in the Church

The traditions associated with Palm Sunday are deeply connected to plants and flowers. On this day, palm branches (Palmstöcke) or decorations for crucifixes are crafted from boxwood bushes or similar plants. Pussy willows are also commonly used, as they are typically in bloom around Easter time. The specific choice of flowers, however, varies depending on local availability.

The Palmstock, also known as Palmbuschen, traditionally consists of seven natural materials: pussy willow, boxwood, juniper, holly, yew, cedar, and savin. The finished bouquets are tied to a long "stick" and further adorned with apples, colorful ribbons, and other vibrant accessories. The stick is usually a carved willow branch, which is then blessed in the church. The execution of this tradition varies considerably by region today.

In churches, the cross is adorned with special festive decorations, using green and flowering branches. Branches blessed during the service often decorate household crosses in homes, a custom still prevalent, especially in Catholic regions. They are also frequently given as gifts.

As a little "prelude" to Easter, in some regions, the Palm Hare (Palmhase) delivers boiled eggs, special treats, or small gifts, which can even include bouquets of flowers, on Palm Sunday. This tradition is still current, particularly in some areas of Hesse.

To celebrate the start of the colorful blooming season in addition to the Christian background, altars, homes, and palm staffs are also adorned with flowers. In some regions, Palm Sunday is therefore also called "Flower Sunday."