Birth Flowers
The idea of birth flowers dates back to ancient Rome, around the same time birthdays began being celebrated. Alongside Zodiac signs and birthstones, birth flowers are a way to celebrate specific characteristics about each and every one of us! Some months have multiple birth flowers associated with them due to cultural differences and what is available in certain regions.
JANUARY: Snowdrop
The birth flower for January is the Snowdrop because it is one of the first flowers to bloom in the new year. It is believed that someone born in January is down to earth, genuine, and loyal. Snowdrops are best suited next to walkways and wooded areas due to their small size. Snowdrops are a perennial that can attract ants which will help spread the seeds naturally
FEBRUARY: Violet
Because of their heart shaped leaves, the Violet is the birth flower for February. Those born in February are known for being creative and passionate! There are more than 400 varieties of violets, most of which will attract bees and hummingbirds. You will often see violets growing wild and will bloom in the spring and late winter months.
MARCH: Daffodil
Daffodils will bloom in early spring representing new beginnings. If you were born in March, you may be known for your cheerful, energetic personality. Daffodils need to experience a cold period to promote solid root development, so the bulbs are best planted in the fall.
APRIL: Daisy
Known as one of the oldest flowers, dating back to 3000 BC, the daisy offers many medicinal benefits as well as vitamin C when eaten properly. Daisies are made of two flowers that work in perfect harmony, symbolizing true love and endless optimism. You may be known as down to earth and loyal if you were born in April.
MAY: Lily of the Valley
The birth flower for May is lily of the valley. This perennial grows best in shaded areas or rock gardens and will first appear in May. Although lily of the valley only bloom for 2-4 weeks, they are a reminder that summer is near. Those born in May are recognized for their caring nature and touch of humility.
JUNE: Rose
The timeless rose is the birth flower for June. Rose bushes need plenty of circulation to breath and grow and are a great companion for flowers that grow tall. As one of the most popular flowers to gift, roses have a meaning for each of their colors so don’t forget to do your research! People born in June most likely will have a passionate and graceful approach to life.
JULY: Lotus
Because lotus thrive on the surface of even the dirtiest of water, they are known for their resiliency and strong will. Lotus often represents that beauty can come from suffering and is a symbol for positivity. Like the lotus, those born in July are motivated by achievement and wisdom and overcome all obstacles.
AUGUST: Poppy
The poppy represents the month of August. Poppies will reseed themselves year after year, so they can be considered invasive in some areas. The seeds are often paired with lemon flavors and used in kitchens. Just like the poppy’s petals, those born in August are strong in character, imagination, and creativity.
SEPTEMBER: Morning Glory
The morning glory is the birth flower for September. These unique flowers get their name because of their unusual daily schedule: they open in the morning and close at night. While they are not often found in arrangements, they are a great addition to a home garden. If you are born in September, you are likely recognized for your optimism, gentleness, resiliency, and imagination.
OCTOBER: Cosmos
Cosmos have become naturalized along roadsides and are often seen in gardens across the US. This annual is fairly easy to grow and will reseed itself to bloom from early summer to the first frost. Because of their evenly spaced petals, cosmos are often associated with harmony. People with October birthdays may have the personality traits of being balanced and being at peace.
NOVEMBER: Chrysanthemum
The mum is the birth flower for November because it offers the last pop of color before winter. The original color of the mum was gold, but through cultivation we now see many beautiful colors. Mums grow best when planted in early Spring and have 6 weeks for their roots to become established. If someone you know is born in November, they might be recognized for their honesty, friendliness, and compassion.
DECEMBER: Holly
Although holly does not bloom in December, it represents much needed optimism in the winter months because of its cheerful red berries. Holly offers food and shelter for birds and wildlife in the winter, however is poisonous for human consumption. Those born in December are known to be joyful, resilient, and generous, much like the holly berry.
No matter which month you are born in, you are free to embrace your true personality and should be proud of who you are. Flowers have meaning and special associations, however their most important job is to bring joy. It is up to us to embrace the personalities of every flower and do our part in helping them thrive.
