Edelweiss is a delicate alpine mountain flower scientifically known as Leontopodium alpinum. It features furry white leaves (called bracts) that surround small yellow flower heads and grows at high altitudes mainly in the Alps and other mountainous regions. The flower symbolizes the wild, rustic beauty of the Alps and is a symbol of strength, courage, and devotion due to its ability to thrive under harsh alpine conditions. It has cultural significance in countries like Austria, Switzerland, and Germany and is associated with love and sacrifice as men historically climbed dangerous mountains to bring this flower to their loved ones. Edelweiss also appears as a national symbol in several countries and has been incorporated into various alpine and military insignias.

The name "Edelweiss" comes from the German words "edel" meaning noble and "weiß" meaning white. The flower is covered in dense hairs that protect it from cold, aridity, and ultraviolet radiation at high elevations. It blooms from June to September and has been protected to prevent over-picking in its natural habitat. Besides its symbolic and cultural importance, edelweiss has also been used traditionally for medicinal purposes and holds a place in folklore and national identity.