What is a shamrock, why’s it connected to St Patrick’s Day and Ireland and how can you make one?

ST Patrick’s Day day has arrived, with the raucous celebrations taking place far beyond Ireland's shores.

The shamrock has been a symbol of the popular Irish festivity for a long time, which is an event of cultural and religious significance. Here’s everything you need to know about the lucky clover leaves, and how you can make your own in time for the annual occasion…

What is a shamrock?

A shamrock is a young sprig of clover.

Its name is derived from the Irish seamróg, which can be translated as “little clover” or “young clover”.

Even though the plants look extremely similar, the shamrock is different to the four-leaf clover.

These lucky plants have one extra leaf than the common three-leaf clover, so spotting them is often considered to bring you good luck.

Why are shamrocks linked to St Patrick’s Day?

The clover sprigs have become a symbol of the holiday because of Saint Patrick.

According to Biblical scriptures, the religious figure used a shamrock as a metaphor for the Christian Holy Trinity.

The three different leaves have come to represent the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Figures and artistic representations of Ireland’s patron saint are often pictured alongside shamrocks.

Jack Santino, an academic folklorist, explained: “The shamrock, whatever its history as a folk symbol, today has its meaning in a Christian context.

“Pictures of Saint Patrick depict him driving the snakes out of Ireland with a cross in one hand and a sprig of shamrocks in the other."

How can you make your own shamrock?

If you want to get your kids involved with the St Patrick’s Day festivities this year, there are plenty of fun arts and crafts projects to delve into.