What is an Edelweiss? Why do we love it?

What is an Edelweiss? Why do we love it?

I love edelweiss and most women who are of German, Austrian or Swiss descent also have an affinity for this flower. But what is it and why do we love this seemingly fuzzy ugly flower so much? I mean we love it so much that we can't help buying anything with it on it... or we get it tattooed on our bodies... or we have it encased in glass and wear it around our necks! I mean... this is a strong love for flora here. 
March 19, 2019