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Watch: Go behind-the-scenes as the cast say goodbye to the Harry Potter films 

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For over a decade, we watched as Harry Potter’s story unfolded on the big screen, the films perfectly capturing the intricate world that we first discovered in the pages of a book. As Harry’s life was forever changed by the discovery that he was a wizard, we imagine that for many of the cast and crew, working on these films was life-changing too. 

And how could it not be? Bringing these stories to life was an epic challenge – one that needed thousands of people to see it through and make it a reality. The cast that grew up together. The directors who had a vision. Those who worked in special effects and convinced us dragons were real. The costume department who carefully thought about the small details – the list is endless and every single contribution crucial. 

Yet, all good things must come to an end, including the Harry Potter films. Come back in time with us to 2010 and watch as the cast and crew say goodbye to the end of an era… 

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Ok, that left us feeling all emotional! 

Although we know that *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part Two* was released more than a year after filming officially finished on the 12th June 2010, this moment was a huge milestone and a massive achievement.

It must have been bittersweet to say goodbye to the characters, cast and crew that they have held so dear, but they all know that they were truly part of something special.

Harry Potter 101: The Malfoy family

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Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

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and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

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__Spoiler warning! There are some mild spoilers ahead – turn back now if you’re not familiar with the books…__

## The Malfoys
This ancient wizarding family is so old that the first [Malfoy](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/the-malfoys) arrived in Britain with William the Conqueror! With the name Malfoy meaning ‘bad faith’ in old French, you probably won’t be surprised to hear that they were known for being a slippery bunch – courting power and wealth.

Speaking of which, the land in Wiltshire, where [Malfoy Manor](/fact-file/locations/malfoy-manor) (a very grand home indeed) was built, was given to Armand by the King himself – no doubt in thanks for some rather dubious dealings. It has remained in the Malfoy family for generations. 

Although known for being believers in [pure-blood](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/pure-blood) supremacy (and the Malfoys really do believe in their superiority), historically, this wasn’t the full picture. They were willing to associate with *certain* [Muggles](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/muggles) – as long as they were rich, influential and they got something from them. 

Once anti-Muggle sentiment grew in the wizarding world (and the Statute of Secrecy came into play), their knack for self-preservation kicked in and they denied ever being associated with them at all. 

A family with great ambition and a talent for cunning, you probably won’t be surprised to hear that they have strong ties to [Slytherin](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/slytherin) house.


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## Notable Malfoy family members

__Draco Malfoy__
 
Probably the first Malfoy that springs to mind, [Draco](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/draco-malfoy) was the only child of Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy and grew up believing that as a pure-blood, wizard and member of the Malfoy family, he was truly special. A Slytherin in the same year as [Harry Potter](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter), he was furious to not be given the same royal treatment as the Boy Who Lived. [Prefect](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/prefect), [Seeker](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/seeker) for the Slytherin Quidditch team, [Inquisitorial Squad](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/inquisitorial-squad) member, and school bully – he was a complex character. Privileged and often unpleasant but in for a rude awakening.

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Draco Malfoy with his hands on his hips, looking defiant in the Slytherin Common Room of Hogwarts castle.

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__Lucius Malfoy__
 
The father that Draco idolised, previous [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) school governor and wizard known for being a former [Death Eater](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/death-eaters)... [Lucius](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lucius-malfoy) was a Malfoy through and through. With family wealth and influential connections, he had a lot of sway in the wizarding world – though he preferred to be the power behind the throne rather than the one on it. That way, he could get what he wanted but could also deny any responsibility or involvement if things went awry.

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__Narcissa Malfoy__
 
A pure-blood with notable lineage and strong ties to Slytherin house, it’s not surprising that [Narcissa](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/narcissa-malfoy) ended up marrying someone like Lucius Malfoy. As a member of the [Black family](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/the-black-family), she was from a long line of [Dark](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/dark-arts) witches and wizards (with a few exceptions like her sister, Andromeda). Narcissa was prejudiced and had an inflated sense of superiority – though it was never confirmed that she was a Death Eater (unlike her other sister, [Bellatrix](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/bellatrix-lestrange)). The one thing she valued above all, was the love she had for her son, Draco.

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__Scorpius Malfoy__
 
The son of Draco Malfoy and Astoria Greengrass, [Scorpius](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/scorpius-malfoy) was a different kind of Malfoy entirely. Best friends with a [Potter](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-potter) of all people, his ambitions were geared more towards how much he could learn rather than how many people he could influence. A kind bookworm with a sweet tooth, he was an example of what Slytherin could be.

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__Astoria Malfoy__
 
After leaving Hogwarts, Astoria Greengrass married Draco Malfoy. Despite coming from one of the families considered part of the ‘Sacred Twenty-Eight’ her in-laws were rather disappointed with their daughter-in-law. This was largely thanks to her abandoning the worldview held by many pure-blood families and embracing a more accepting one.

__Armand Malfoy__
 
As we mentioned earlier, Armand was the Malfoy who was part of the invading Norman army and given land (seized from local landowners) as thanks for his shady services. He perfectly encapsulated how the Malfoy family prized status, wealth and proximity to power – even more than pure-blood ideals.

__Nicholas Malfoy__
 
When the Black Death struck, it gave Nicholas Malfoy the opportunity to dispatch of any of his particularly irritable Muggle tenants. As seems to be the way with this family, he got away with it and escaped censure by the Wizards’ Council.

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__Septimus Malfoy__
 
This was a wizard with such great influence at the [Ministry of Magic](/fact-file/locations/the-ministry-of-magic) in the late eighteenth century, that people started to believe that the actual [Minister for Magic](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/minister-for-magic), Unctuous Osbert, wasn’t in charge at all…

__Abraxas Malfoy__
 
Father of Lucius and grandfather to Draco, this was yet another wily and influential Malfoy who controlled things from the shadows. He was thought to be part of a sneaky plot to prematurely oust the first [Muggle-born](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/muggle-borns) Minister for Magic, Nobby Leach, in 1968. Of course, nothing was ever proven. 

__The first Lucius Malfoy__
 
Before the Statute of Secrecy came into being, one Malfoy had royal ambitions. The first Lucius Malfoy was said to want to marry Queen Elizabeth I. When she spurned him, he jinxed her and that was (supposedly) why she remained opposed to marriage for the rest of her life.

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Narcissa in between Lucius and Draco at the final battle 

The hidden names of the Harry Potter characters

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*__Spoiler warning! There are some mild spoilers ahead – turn back now if you’re not familiar with the books…__*

__Harry Potter__
 
Like the rest of the wizarding world, we’re sure you know the full name of the Boy Who Lived. But as a quick reminder, it’s [Harry James Potte](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter)r – with [James](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/james-potter) also being his father’s name.

__Ron Weasley__
 
A name that would take a few years to grow into, Ron’s full title was [Ronald Bilius Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley). Yes, Bilius, like his uncle who was known for his unique party trick and unfortunate Grim sighting – quite the legacy!

__Hermione Granger__
 
Hermione’s middle name was Jean – a name that suited a responsible person like her. Yet, she may never have been [Hermione Granger](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger) at all. The first iteration of her name was Hermione Puckle… adorable! 

__Ginny Weasley__
 
In our eyes, the youngest Weasley’s moniker could have been inspired by two iconic queens. Her first name, [Ginevra](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ginny-weasley), happens to be the Italian form of the name Guinevere – the famous queen of Arthurian legend. Her middle name was after her mother, [Molly](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/molly-weasley), who might not *technically* be royalty… but she’s definitely our queen.

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Ginny is wearing Gryffindor Quidditch robes and flying on her broomstick.

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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and the Half-Blood Prince

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__Neville Longbottom__
 
Our favourite underdog might have had a different surname entirely. We could have ended up with either Neville Puff or Neville Sidebottom, but we think the final decision of [Neville Longbottom](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom) suited him best.

__Luna Lovegood__
 
If you look at page 90 of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*, you will spot the surname ‘Moon’ during the Sorting Ceremony. Before J.K. Rowling created the one-and-only [Luna Lovegood](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/luna-lovegood), there was Lily Moon – the earlier iteration of our eccentric Ravenclaw.

__Draco Malfoy__
 
Of course [Draco’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/draco-malfoy) middle name was after the father he hero-worshipped, [Lucius](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lucius-malfoy)… but did you know what his surname might have been? Draco Spungen, Draco Smart and even Draco Spinks were in consideration. However, with ‘Malfoy’ being inspired by the Old French for ‘bad faith’, his final name suited him perfectly. 

__Albus Dumbledore__
 
The twinkly-eyed headmaster had not one but three middle names. The grand-sounding Percival after his father, powerful Wulfric and the more down-to-earth… Brian. Yep, he was [Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-dumbledore) – impressive but approachable.

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Albus Dumbledore in his office by the cabinet that contains memories

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__Horace Slughorn__
 
For a wizard that was always looking to climb the social ladder, we’re sure Horace was suitably pleased with his full name that was rather well-to-do – [Horace Eugene Flaccus Slughorn](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/horace-slughorn).

__Dolores Umbridge__
 
With Dolores meaning ‘sorrow’ and Umbridge being a play on the word ‘umbrage’ (meaning to take offence), you’d assume her middle name would mean something like evil or petty. It doesn’t, it’s simply… Jane. However, J.K. Rowling thought it looked rather ‘smug and neat between her other two names’, which is actually very [Umbridge](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/dolores-umbridge) vibes.

__Remus Lupin__
 
For a man whose name feels suitably wolfish and mysterious, you might be surprised to hear that [Lupin’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/remus-lupin) middle name is John.

__Percy Weasley__
 
Did you know that [Percy’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/percy-weasley) middle name is Ignatius? And did you also know it is a Late Roman word for fire? Rather fitting for this member of our favourite flame-haired family.

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Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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and the Order of the Phoenix

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__Bill Weasley__ 
 
[William Arthur Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/bill-weasley) was the full name of this dashing Curse-Breaker. Not only is [Arthur](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/arthur-weasley) the name of his father, it’s also the name of the legendary King Arthur. With his sister also have an Arthurian inspired name, is this purely coincidence?

__Fleur Delacour__
 
The full name of the [Triwizard](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/triwizard-tournament) champion for [Beauxbatons](/fact-file/locations/beauxbatons-academy) was [Fleur Isabelle Delacour](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/fleur-delacour).

__Tom Riddle__
 
Before he was [Lord Voldemort](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lord-voldemort), he was Tom Marvolo Riddle – an anagram of ‘I am Lord Voldemort’. At least that was what he was called in the English versions of the books. From Elvis to Trevor, his name was quite different in other parts of the world which [you can read about here](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/how-lord-voldemort-is-known-around-the-world).

__Albus Potter__
 
Harry and Ginny’s youngest son was named after Albus Dumbledore and a man Harry described as ‘probably the bravest man I ever knew’… [Severus Snape](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/severus-snape). Yep, that’s right, [Albus Severus Potter](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-potter) was named after the cranky [Potions](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/potions) professor that Harry had once loathed.

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Harry with Albus on bed original cast - Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

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__James Potter (Junior)__
 
There was only ever going to be one name for Harry’s first-born son – James Sirius Potter – after the father and godfather he didn’t have enough time with.

__Lily Potter (Junior)__
 
Harry and Ginny’s daughter, Lily Luna Potter, had a name that was inspired by two important witches. There was Lily for Harry’s mother and Luna for their Ravenclaw friend. 

__Teddy Lupin__
 
The full name of [Tonks](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/nymphadora-tonks-fact-file) and Lupin’s son was Edward Remus Lupin. Edward after Tonks’ beloved father, Ted, and Remus, well, after Remus!

__Aunt Marge__
 
Vernon’s repugnant sister has a name that isn’t quite as off-putting as her – [Marjorie Eileen Dursley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/marge-dursley).

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__[Cornelius Fudge](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/cornelius-fudge)__
 
Did you know that Oswald is the middle name of this former [Minister for Magic](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/minister-for-magic)?

__Arabella Figg__
 
Lovable [Squib](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/squibs), fan of cats and someone who protected Harry, even if he didn’t know it, [Arabella Figg’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/arabella-figg) middle name was the adorable, Doreen.

__Moaning Myrtle__
 
It’s easy to forget that the ghost who haunted the u-bend wasn’t always known as [Moaning Myrtle](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/moaning-myrtle). She was once a [Ravenclaw](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/ravenclaw) student named Myrtle Warren.

__Nearly Headless Nick__
 
A [ghost](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/ghost) that (when alive) was part of the British Royal Court was never going to be just ‘Nick’. Oh no, he needs a name that is far grander – [Sir Nicholas de Mimsy-Porpington](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/nearly-headless-nick) does the trick.

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__The Grey Lady__
 
Do you know what the Ravenclaw ghost’s real name was? It was [Helena Ravenclaw](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/the-grey-lady) and yes, she did have a connection to *the* [Rowena Ravenclaw](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/rowena-ravenclaw).

__Regulus Black__
 
[Sirius’](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/sirius-black) younger brother [Regulus](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/regulus-black) had the middle name, Arcturus, making his initials R.A.B… rather *interesting* don’t you think?

__Phineas Nigellus Black__
 
This one isn’t so hidden... he was probably one of the only characters that always went by their full name. The former unpopular headteacher (and current Hogwarts portrait) was Phineas Nigellus Black.

For beginners, for novices, for Harry Potter superfans going 20 years-strong, dig deep into the wizarding world with our collection of features.

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The importance of tea in the wizarding world 

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Ron, Hermione, Harry and Fang sit in Hagrid's hut

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The ubiquity of cups of tea in the wizarding world is surely an inevitability. After all, Harry’s story is set in the UK, and Hogwarts is famously extremely cold. But the beloved beverage snuck up time-and-time again in the stories in both mundane and magical ways. 

 ‘Er – shall I make a cup of tea?’ said Ron. 
Harry stared at him. 
‘It’s what my mum does whenever someone’s upset,’ Ron muttered, shrugging. 

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Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

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## Hagrid swears by them  

Rubeus Hagrid has a lot of creature comforts, and we’re not just talking about the creatures. Every time Harry, Ron and Hermione visited his friendly hut, a giant, steaming mug of tea would usually be waiting for them. And due to Hagrid’s generous stature, we were always pleased to see that his crockery was equally large. After all, what’s better than a cup of tea than a very, very big cup of tea? 

Upon Harry’s first week at Hogwarts, it was actually a heartening offer of a cup of tea at his house that really kicked off his friendship with Hagrid. This simple beverage really can be the glue that holds a relationship together.

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and the Prisoner of Azkaban

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## A cup of tea can sometimes have an ulterior motive 

On a couple of occasions, a ‘cup of tea’ was basically an excuse for two characters to meet up and set the world to rights. Take Harry’s visit to [Professor Lupin’s](https://www.harrypotter.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/remus-lupin) office in *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaba*n. After a wobbly beginning with his new Defence Against the Dark Arts professor, an offer of a cup of tea in his office was Lupin’s way of telling Harry he had his back.  

Of course, we would soon find out about Lupin’s childhood friendships with Harry’s dad and [Sirius Black](https://www.harrypotter.com/fact-file/characters-and-pets/sirius-black) – so we like to think this cup of tea was Lupin’s way of finally getting to connect with his old best friend’s son. 

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## And it’s an excellent excuse to get out of an awkward situation 

The power of a cup of tea is unparalleled – you can use it as an excuse to visit someone, to get away from your desk for five minutes – or even get out of uncomfortable social situations! It is, once again, the British way. 

One amusing instance of this is during the house-cleaning mission at [Grimmauld Place](https://www.harrypotter.com/fact-file/locations/number-twelve-grimmauld-place) where one room has been inhabited with ‘spiders the size of saucers’. Curiously, Ron disappears from this scene to make a cup of tea for an hour and a half. 

Another amusing scenario – again with the Weasleys – reveals the extreme usefulness of a cup of tea as an escape route. During Arthur’s recovery at [St Mungo’s](https://www.harrypotter.com/fact-file/locations/st-mungos-hospital), Molly is incensed to discover he’s decided to experiment with Muggle stitches for his injuries. Everyone else, on the other hand, is suddenly extremely thirsty. 


 ‘Well … well, I don’t know whether you know what – what stitches are?’ 
‘It sounds as though you’ve been trying to sew your skin back together,’ said Mrs Weasley with a snort of mirthless laughter, ‘but even you, Arthur, wouldn’t be that stupid –’ 
‘I fancy a cup of tea, too,’ said Harry, jumping to his feet. 

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Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix 

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## Or act as a peace offering? 

Sometimes a cup of tea can just be a cup of tea. But sometimes, it can be representative of so much more.  

One particularly poignant scene in the final book saw Harry accidentally tread on a full cup of tea outside his Privet Drive bedroom. At first, Harry assumed this was another of Dudley’s booby traps. After years of torment from his cousin, that would make the most sense, right? 

Later, he discovered that no... no, Dudley had actually... made him a cup of tea. After Harry had rescued him from a traumatic [Dementor attack](https://www.harrypotter.com/fact-file/creatures/dementor) earlier in the series, his cousin had tried to, heaven forbid, make amends. After an entire childhood of bullying Harry, this innocent cuppa was a huge moment in Dudley’s development, paving the path for an even bigger one: a handshake. 

Although the cousins would never be bosom buddies, we couldn’t help but be slightly touched by this surprising olive branch. And by the time we reach the events of *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child*, we learn the pair kept in touch into adulthood. Who’d have thought that Big D had it in him?

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## Then there’s the matter of tea leaves  

Of course, it wouldn’t be the wizarding world if the most seemingly innocuous of things didn’t carry a magical quality. For wizards and witches, tea leaf reading is an ancient art of Divination, although some find the practice [somewhat woolly.](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/in-defence-of-divination)  

[You can read about the different types of tea leaf symbols here.](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/every-tea-leaves-symbol-from-harrys-divination-class)

Unfortunately, having Professor Trelawney as a professor in the subject meant that Harry's tea leaves were always the most dire of outcomes - with the soggy leaves often forecasting his impending doom. 

This is perhaps an instance where a hug in a mug is perhaps not so comforting. But for the most part, it tends to solve most of life’s problems. 

Harry Potter 101: wizarding plants

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A screaming mandrake seedling in a Herbology Lesson 

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__Spoiler warning! There are some mild spoilers ahead – turn back now if you’re not familiar with the books…__

With [Herbology](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/herbology) a core subject at [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts), it’s easy to assume that there are lots of weird and wonderful magical plants – and that assumption would be correct! Yet, as well as plants that you can only find in the wizarding world, witches and wizards also have a deep understanding of the magical properties of plants [Muggles](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/muggles) grow too. We’ve rounded these all up…

__Asphodel__ 
 
We’re kicking off our list with asphodel – a plant present in the Muggle world too. Yet, we doubt Muggles used its powdered root to make a sleeping potion so powerful it is known as the [Draught of Living Death](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/the-draught-of-living-death).

__Belladonna__ 
 
Oh look, another plant that is found in both magical and Muggle worlds. We might know belladonna as a highly poisonous plant, but it was also a potion ingredient used by witches and wizards. Probably quite frequently too – seeing as [Mrs Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/molly-weasley) had to top up [Harry’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) supply for his potion-making kit before his fourth year began. 

__Bouncing Bulbs__
 
You can probably guess what these are – plant bulbs that bounce! You need to make sure you have a good grip on them though… they wriggle. Harry discovered that in a tense Herbology lesson when one bounced so enthusiastically it smacked him right in the face – ouch! 

__Bubotuber__
 
Described by Harry as the ‘ugliest plants he had seen’, [Bubotubers](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/bubotubers) resemble ‘thick black giant slugs, protruding vertically out of the soil’. To add to this gross visual, they also have swellings that move and are full of pus. Yes, we did say pus. Though don’t judge a book by its cover, these plants are as useful as they are disgusting. The pus is valuable and when distilled, can be used an effective cure for the most stubborn forms of acne. Though undiluted, it can cause horrible sores on your skin – as [Hermione Granger](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger) painfully discovered. 

__Daisy__
 
In the Muggle world, daisies are considered weeds – if rather pretty. However, in the magical world, the roots of a daisy are used as an ingredient in the [Shrinking Solution](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/shrinking-solution) recipe. 

__Devil’s Snare__
 
Devilish by name and devilish by nature, this is one of the more dangerous plants of the wizarding world – thanks to its tendency to trap victims in its tentacle-like vines. Though, as Hermione remembered in the nick of time, there is a way to escape its deadly grip. [Devil’s Snare](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/devils-snare) thrives in the dark and damp and will recoil at light and warmth. A well-placed flame will see a sharpish retreat.

HP-F1-philosophers-stone-harry-hermione-devils-snare-web-landscape

Harry and Hermione are looking up at the Devil's Snare. Hermione is pointing her wand at it.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone 

HP-F1

and the Philosopher's Stone 

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__Dittany__ 
 
Another plant species that straddles both the magical and Muggle worlds. In the wizarding world, the healing properties of dittany are very valuable – the Essence of Dittany potion can help to quickly heal wounds and can even reduce scarring. It was very lucky that Hermione had a bottle in her amazing, beaded bag when [Ron](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley) Splinched himself. 

__Fanged Geranium__
 
We all know geraniums as beautiful and vibrant flowers but in the magical world, they have more of a *bite*. Yep, these were geraniums with teeth – one even bit Harry in his Herbology [O.W.L](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/o-w-l-s).

__Flitterbloom__
 
We don’t know much about this magical plant – except that it bears a resemblance to Devil’s Snare. However, this one is nowhere near as deadly, so it is important to not get them muddled up. 

__Flutterby Bush__
 
There’s nothing quite as peaceful or serene as watching leaves ripple on a gentle breeze. With a Flutterby Bush, this is a permanent occurrence. An attractive bush whose leaves flutter constantly – no wind needed! 

__Fluxweed__
 
This plant was one of the ingredients that could be found in [Polyjuice Potion](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/polyjuice-potion). According to J.K. Rowling, it represents ‘the mutability of the body as it changed into another’.

__Gillyweed__
 
How does a human hold their breath underwater for an entire hour? Well, one way to do that is by eating [Gillyweed](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/gillyweed) – vividly described as looking like a ball of ‘slimy, greyish green rat tails’. When eaten raw, this magical plant causes a person to grow gills and webbed hands and feet. Let’s just say if you every find yourself in a [Triwizard Tournament](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/triwizard-tournament), it might be useful to keep some on hand.

Gillyweed Fact File Image gillyweed_1_1800x1248

Fact File gillyweed_1_1800x1248

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__Gurdyroot__
 
This plant resembles a green onion and is rather popular with the Lovegood family – they love a cup of their homemade Gurdyroot infusion. We’d describe it as an *acquired* taste… Harry, Ron and Hermione would call it disgusting. 

__Hellebore__
 
Another flower admired by Muggles and magical folk, two drops of the syrup of hellebore is needed to create a [Draught of Peace](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/the-draught-of-peace).

__Honking daffodil__
 
Daffodils in the Muggle world are bright, yellow and a reminder spring has sprung. What they aren’t is noisy. The same can’t be said for their wizarding counterparts – or at least for the honking daffodils found in [Professor Sprout’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/pomona-sprout) greenhouse.

__Knotgrass__
 
Found in both the magical and Muggle worlds, knotgrass is another Polyjuice Potion ingredient and supposedly represents being tied to another person.

__Lovage__
 
In the Muggle world, lovage is a herb used in cooking and is even known to have medicinal properties. In the magical world? It is an ingredient that can often be found in Confusing or Befuddlement Draughts as it appears to be effective for ‘inflaming the brain’.

__Mallowsweet__
 
When [Firenze](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/firenze) took the post of [Divination](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/divination) teacher at Hogwarts, he bought a unique perspective – thanks to being a centaur. Through him, we learnt that the centaurs often burn herbs and leaves – Mallowsweet included – observing the fumes and flames in an attempt to gain insight into the future through. 

__Mandrake__
 
While [Mandrakes](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/mandrake) exist in the Muggle world, we doubt they are quite as memorable as the wizarding version. These shrubs, which resemble crying babies when young, have a wail that proves to be fatal once they reach maturity. Despite their deadly disposition, they are also used for healing and are a key ingredient in the [Restorative Draught](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/mandrake-restorative-draught) which cures Petrification. Complex but useful – just don’t forget your earmuffs!

Mandrakes Fact File Image mandrakes_2_1800x1248

Fact File mandrakes_2_1800x1248

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__Mimbulus mimbletonia__
 
As a budding Herbologist, [Neville Longbottom](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom) was thrilled when his Great Uncle Algie presented him with a [Mimbulus mimbletonia](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/mimbulus-mimbletonia) all the was from Assyria. Harry couldn’t *quite* understand his joy – describing this pulsating plant as having ‘the rather sinister look of some diseased internal organ’ (they do say beauty is in the eye of the beholder). Do watch out for this plant’s defence mechanism though. It has a nasty habit of spraying Stinksap – it smells just as nice as it sounds.

__Plangentine__
 
This is one wizarding plant that eludes us. We know that [Bathilda Bagshot](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/bathilda-bagshot) grew them in her garden. We know that she picked them at moonlight. Plus, we know that she did this during winter. Beyond that? They’re a mystery.

__Puffapod__
 
Harry, Ron and Hermione tended to this plant during a Herbology lesson, where they stripped it of its fat, pink pods and emptied the beans into a pail. Unfortunately, butterfingers (also known as Ron) dropped a bunch of beans onto the floor where they immediately burst into bloom.

__Rue__
 
After Ron had a teeny tiny mishap with some poison, this plant had its moment to shine. Essence of Rue was a key component to his recovery. 

__Sage__
 
This Muggle herb was another that Firenze burned when he asked Harry and his classmates to try and read the symbols and shapes that appeared in the smoke.

HP-F2-chamber-of-secrets-greenhouse-herbology-sprout-mandrake-lesson-class-web-landscape

A second year Herbology lesson in the greenhouse. The students stand round a table of Mandrakes as Professor Sprout talks to them.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

HP-F2

and the Chamber of Secrets

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__Scurvy-grass__
 
Alongside lovage, scurvy-grass is another plant that is a key ingredient in Confusing or Befuddlement Draughts that cause hot-headedness and reckless behaviour.

__Self-fertilising shrubs__
 
There’s not a lot we know about these shrubs, except we assume that they do what they say on the tin and Harry, Ron and Hermione once had to write an essay on them for Professor Sprout.

__Shrivelfig__
 
Originating in Abyssinia, [Shrivelfigs](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/shrivelfig) were magical plants that second-year Herbology students attended to. They were also used as in ingredient in potions such as Shrinking Solution.

__Snargaluff__
 
At first glance, the [Snargaluff](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/snargaluff) plant resembles a gnarled stump. On closer inspection, they reveal long, bramble-like vines that have a habit of lashing out. They also have some rather delightful pulsating, green pods that contain tubers like pale-green worms… Funnily enough, those proved to be rather handy when under attack.

__Sneezewort__
 
This happens to be the final plant that we know is needed when creating Confusing or Befuddlement Draughts.

The Whomping Willow Fact File Image the-whomping-willow_2_1800x1248

Fact File the-whomping-willow_2_1800x1248

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__Sopophorous Bean__
 
We assume that a Sopohorous Bean comes from some sort of Sopophorous plant. Anyway, this bean is used in the creation of the Draught of Living Death. Handy hint – crush rather than chop the bean for a more successful potion.

__[The Whomping Willow](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/the-whomping-willow)__
 
Arguably the most famous of wizarding plants, this was a willow tree with a feisty personality. Get too close and you would feel the wrath of its branches whipping towards you. It did sustain a little bit of damage when it took on a flying [Ford Anglia](/fact-file/objects/the-flying-car) that rudely crashed into it, but this was a tree you’d probably want to give a wide berth.

__[Venomous Tentacula](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/venomous-tentacula)__
 
This spiky, dark red plant had long creeping feelers that have been known to try to strangle the odd Herbology student (a quick [Severing Charm](/fact-file/spells/the-severing-charm) sorts that out though). Not content with its villainous vines, this plant also has a venomous bite, poisonous shoots and some spikes for good measure. We know [Fred](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/fred-weasley) and [George](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/george-weasley) coveted the seeds for their Skiving Snackboxes but had issue getting hold of them – what with them being a Class C Non-Tradeable Substance and all.

__Wormwood__
 
The final plant on our list, wormwood is found in both the magical and Muggle worlds. Add powdered root of asphodel to an infusion of Wormwood and you get the Draught of Living Death.

Venomous Tentacula Fact File Image venomous-tentacula_1_1800x1248

Fact File venomous-tentacula_1_1800x1248

What happened to all the main Harry Potter characters after Hogwarts? 

WEB-FEATURE-what-happened-to-the-harry-potter-characters-after-hogwarts

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The members of Dumbledore's Army standing together in the Room of Requirement

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*__WARNING: Obviously we’re looking into the beyond here, so a spoiler warning is now in effect.__* 

The devastating crescendo at the end of the [Battle of Hogwarts](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/the-battle-of-hogwarts) left many of our favourite Harry Potter characters forever-changed by the event. While we lost some of our favourites, some others went on to acquire impressive jobs, go on to have families, or carry on the legacies of some of the fallen. From students to teachers, here’s some key character futures that we came to learn about.  

## Harry became an Auror and worked at the Ministry  

In Harry’s fifth year at Hogwarts, all the students were given careers advice, where [Harry](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) divulged to Professor McGonagall his ambition of becoming an [Auror](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/auror). Who can blame him? After living a life constantly under the eye of one of the Darkest wizards of all time, he basically had done his Auror training already. 

In his later years, Harry became the Head of the Auror Office at the [Ministry of Magic](/fact-file/locations/the-ministry-of-magic) – which – as we learnt about in *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child* – sounded great on paper, but did have a lot of paper...work.  


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## Ron took over Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes after Fred’s death  

[Fred Weasley’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/fred-weasley) death in the Battle of Hogwarts hit us all hard, but his legacy lived on. The twins’ joke shop, Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, went on to be looked after by Fred’s younger brother, [Ron](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley), who looked after the business with George.  

Like Harry, Ron did have a brief foray in the Auror profession, but after two years, decided running a joke shop was a tad more fun.

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## Hermione got the top job at the Ministry  

Never ever an under-achiever, [Hermione](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger) went above and beyond after [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) – eventually becoming the actual [Minister for Magic](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/minister-for-magic).  

While moving up the ranks at the Ministry, she continued her work championing [house-elf](/fact-file/creatures/house-elf) rights, while eradicating old, stuffy laws that were biased towards [pure-blood](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/pure-blood) witches and wizards. That’s our Hermione.

And of course, she lived happily ever after with Ron, with their two children, [Rose](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/rose-granger-weasley) and Hugo too. The future she deserved.

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## Ginny became Sports Editor for The Daily Prophet  

Always a dab-hand at [Quidditch](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/quidditch) during her Hogwarts years, [Ginny](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ginny-weasley) went on to have a soaring career in the sport, playing for the all-female team, the Holyhead Harpies. After that, she progressed into journalism – heading up the Sports section of The [*Daily Prophet*](/fact-file/objects/the-daily-prophet), while bringing up three children with Harry: [Albus](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-potter), James and Lily. 

what-happened-to-the-harry-potter-characters-after-hogwarts-text-section-5

## Neville became a Hogwarts Professor!  

[Neville’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom) future after Hogwarts is just so... Neville. After showing huge interest in [Herbology](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/herbology) during his student days, he went on to actually teach the subject. Let’s hope he had better control over his [Mimbulus mimbletonias](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/mimbulus-mimbletonia) with his students. 

He also found love – marrying [Hufflepuff](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/hufflepuff) student [Hannah Abbott](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hannah-abbott-fact-file). And to make matters even more wholesome, they went on to live together, upstairs from [The Leaky Caudron](/fact-file/locations/the-leaky-cauldron) pub. 

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Neville Longbottom stands at the edge of the lake while holding up a plant

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

HP-F4

and the Goblet of Fire

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## Draco married on, but lost his wife to a tragic illness  

After an extremely complicated childhood, [Draco Malfoy](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/draco-malfoy) emerged in *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child* reborn as a family man with long hair and a penchant for farmers’ markets. His son, [Scorpius](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/scorpius-malfoy), a lovable bookworm who ended up befriending Harry Potter’s son, Albus, made for a very different kind of Malfoy legacy. But alas, Draco’s adulthood was also marred by tragedy – losing his wife, Astoria Greengrass, to a fatal blood curse. 

We see these events play out in *Cursed Child*, with father and son trying to navigate their grief together, and seeing the softer side of Draco is a comfort. Although him and Harry were still partial to the odd sparring match. 


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DracoMalfoy WB F8 DracoGoyleZabini V1 Still 080615 Land

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## George married Angelina Johnson and had two children 

Bereft after the loss of his twin, [George Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/george-weasley) carried Fred’s torch for the rest of his life. While keeping their joke shop business alive and well with Ron, he also went on to marry his fellow Gryffindor Quidditch team member, [Angelina Johnson](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/angelina-johnson). Yes, the very same Angelina that dated Fred at Hogwarts.  

He also named one of his children after his late brother, meaning the Fred Weasley spirit floats on within the next generation of [Weasleys](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/the-weasleys).  


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Fred and George wearing suits and standing together in Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes.

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## Luna went on to marry Newt Scamander’s grandson 

Always one with nature, it feels perfectly serendipitous that our quirky [Ravenclaw](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/ravenclaw) [Luna](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/luna-lovegood) would go on to become a Magizoologist – and marry one. We all know [Newt Scamander](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/newt-scamander), our *Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them* hero. Well, Luna went on to marry his grandson, Rolf. The happy couple even went on to have twins: the appropriately idiosyncratically named Lorcan and Lysander. Whether or not Luna ever did meet a Blibbering Humdinger, however, we do not know.

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## Professor McGonagall became Hogwarts Headmistress 

After [Albus Dumbledore’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-dumbledore) passing, and peace in the wizarding world was re-established, there was only one person who could look after Hogwarts. Of course! Of course, it had to be our formidable Head of Gryffindor House, [Minerva McGonagall](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/minerva-mcgonagall) – who served as Deputy Head under Dumbledore’s tenure. 

After leading the Battle of Hogwarts courageously, Minerva was still Headmistress of Hogwarts when Harry’s children started going to school. Ah, a whole new generation of Potters to tell off! Her work is truly never done. 

Minerva McGonagall Fact File Image minerva-mcgonagall_1_1800x1248

Fact File minerva-mcgonagall_1_1800x1248

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## Some honourable mentions 

- Ron’s older brother, [Charlie](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/charlie-weasley), continued his work with dragons, and as of 2014, was unmarried, thanks to a gossipy *Daily Prophet* report. 

-  [Percy](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/percy-weasley) finally achieved his dreams of having a very important job at the Ministry of Magic, taking charge of the Department of Magical Transportation. He went on to have two children, Lucy and *Molly*. We’re sure [Mrs Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/molly-weasley) was delighted. 

- Despite a shocking attack by [werewolf](/fact-file/creatures/werewolf) [Fenrir Greyback](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/fenrir-greyback), [Bill Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/bill-weasley) lived to tell the tale and went on to have three children with his wife, [Fleur Delacour](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/fleur-delacour). One of them, Victoire Weasley, ended up having a teen romance with Harry’s godson, Teddy Lupin!  

- After many stressful years as Gryffindor’s Quidditch team captain, [Oliver Wood](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/oliver-wood) joined the British and Irish Quidditch league as a Reserve Keeper for Puddlemere United. Once a go-getter, always a go-getter. 

- After a doomed romance with [Cedric Diggory](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/cedric-diggory) and a fleeting one with Harry Potter, [Cho Chang](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/cho-chang) found love in the end with a [Muggle](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/muggles) suitor. Ooh, tell us more! 

- Harry’s [Aunt Petunia](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/petunia-dursley) had died by the time the events of *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child* came around, but we did learn that Harry had managed to create a cordial relationship with his cousin [Dudley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/dudley-dursley) in their adulthood. 

*** 

__Which character future surprised you the most?__ 

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