Orpine's specific name telephium is thought to be derived from Telephus, the son of Hercules, who is thought to have discovered the plant's virtues. During the seventeenth century, the plant was considered to have strong magical powers. Around midsummer, the leaves of orpine were made into garlands together with corn marigolds and hung in strings in houses and on may poles.

In France, orpine was collected and purified over bonfires before St John's Eve. It was also believed that should a witch enter the room, potted orpine would wither.