Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or just want to give someone a thoughtful gift, knowing the flower that represents their birth month can add a special touch.
Flowers have been used to symbolize different months of the year for centuries, and each one has its own unique meaning and significance. In this article, we will explore the flowers that represent each month and their rich history and symbolism.
So, whether you’re looking to gift someone a bouquet or simply want to expand your floral knowledge, keep reading to discover the flowers that represent the months.
January – Carnation
Carnation is the birth flower for the month of January, and it represents love, admiration, and distinction. The flower is native to the Mediterranean region and comes in a variety of colors, including pink, red, white, and yellow.
In addition to its association with the month of January, carnations also have a rich history in various cultures. In Greek mythology, it is believed that the first carnation was created when Zeus cried over the death of his son, Adonis, and his tears turned into a flower.
In Christianity, the pink carnation is said to have bloomed from the Virgin Mary’s tears when she saw her son, Jesus, carrying the cross.
Carnations are often used in bouquets and floral arrangements for various occasions such as weddings, Mother’s Day, and Valentine’s Day. The flower has also been used for medicinal purposes, as it contains eugenol, a natural antiseptic and pain reliever.
February – Violet
The violet is a delicate flower that is often associated with the month of February. It is a symbol of modesty, humility, and faithfulness, making it a perfect gift for someone special. Its fragrant and sweet aroma is also said to help soothe the mind and soul.
In addition to its symbolic meaning, the violet has a rich cultural history. The ancient Greeks believed that the violet was a symbol of love and fertility, while the Romans used the flower as a medicinal herb to treat a variety of ailments.
The violet has also been used in literature, with famous writers such as Shakespeare, Keats, and Wordsworth all referencing the flower in their works.
Violets come in a variety of colors, including blue, purple, white, and yellow, with each color carrying its own meaning. Blue violets symbolize loyalty and devotion, while purple violets represent passion and romance.
White violets are a symbol of purity and innocence, while yellow violets represent happiness and friendship.
Regardless of the color, violets are a beautiful and meaningful flower that make a wonderful gift for anyone born in February or for any occasion in which you want to show your love and appreciation.
March – Daffodil
Daffodils are a classic spring-blooming flower that are often associated with the month of March. The bright yellow blooms of the daffodil are a symbol of renewal, rebirth, and the arrival of springtime.
In many cultures, daffodils are also believed to represent good luck, prosperity, and new beginnings.
In the language of flowers, daffodils have been associated with various meanings, including forgiveness, respect, and unrequited love. However, their most commonly recognized meaning is as a symbol of friendship and the joy of life.
Daffodils are also the birth flower for those born in March, making them a popular choice for birthday bouquets and gifts. They are also a traditional flower for Easter and are often used in springtime decorations and arrangements.
April – Daisy
The daisy is a delicate and charming flower that blooms in the month of April, representing the rebirth and renewal of spring. It is often associated with purity, innocence, and new beginnings.
In ancient times, the daisy was believed to be a sacred flower, and its petals were used in various medicinal remedies.
Today, the daisy is a popular flower that symbolizes joy, happiness, and positivity. Its simple and unassuming appearance makes it a favorite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts alike.
In terms of symbolism, the daisy is often associated with love and loyalty, making it a popular choice for weddings and other romantic occasions.
It is also used to represent motherhood, childhood, and new beginnings, making it a fitting choice for the month of April when spring is in full swing and new life is beginning to blossom.
May – Lily of the Valley
Lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis) is a delicate and fragrant flower that represents the month of May. This flower is native to Europe and has long been associated with the coming of spring and the renewal of life.
It is also commonly associated with weddings, symbolizing purity, humility, and happiness.
In the language of flowers, the lily of the valley represents sweetness, purity of heart, and the return of happiness. It is often used in bridal bouquets and as a gift for Mother’s Day, as it is believed to bring good luck and protect against evil spirits.
In some cultures, the lily of the valley is also known as the “ladder to heaven,” as its bell-shaped flowers are said to represent the steps that lead to the divine. In medieval times, it was believed that the flower had the power to ward off snakes and other harmful creatures.
Despite its beauty and symbolism, the lily of the valley is a poisonous plant that can cause serious harm if ingested. As such, it is important to handle these flowers with care and keep them out of reach of children and pets.
June – Rose
June is often associated with weddings and romance, so it’s no surprise that the rose is the flower that represents this month. Roses are universally recognized as symbols of love and beauty, and they come in a variety of colors, each with its own unique meaning.
The most common colors of roses include red, pink, yellow, white, and peach, but roses can also come in shades of orange, lavender, and even black.
Red roses are the classic symbol of romantic love, while pink roses represent admiration, gratitude, and appreciation. Yellow roses symbolize friendship and joy, and white roses are often associated with purity, innocence, and new beginnings.
Peach roses are often given as a sign of appreciation and gratitude, while orange roses represent passion and enthusiasm. Lavender roses are associated with enchantment and love at first sight, while black roses symbolize death and farewell.
In addition to their romantic symbolism, roses are also admired for their beauty and fragrance. They have been cultivated for thousands of years and are used in a variety of settings, from bouquets and floral arrangements to gardens and parks.
So, whether you’re celebrating a June wedding or simply enjoying the beauty of roses, this flower is the perfect representation of the month.
July – Larkspur
Larkspur is a beautiful and delicate flower that represents the month of July. This flower belongs to the Delphinium family and is known for its tall spikes of vibrant, colorful blooms.
Larkspur flowers have been associated with many symbolic meanings throughout history, including an open heart, strong bonds of love, and an ardent attachment.
Larkspur flowers are often used in bouquets and arrangements due to their long and slender stems.
They come in a range of shades, including pink, purple, blue, and white. In addition to its beauty, larkspur is also believed to have medicinal properties and was traditionally used as a remedy for various ailments.
In mythology, larkspur was associated with the Greek god Zeus and was said to have sprung from his tears. In medieval times, larkspur was believed to protect against evil spirits and was often used in amulets and talismans.
Today, larkspur is a popular choice for July birthdays and is often given as a gift to represent love and admiration.
August – Gladiolus
Gladiolus is a beautiful and dramatic flower that blooms in late summer, making it the perfect choice to represent the month of August. This flower symbolizes strength, integrity, and infatuation, which makes it an ideal choice for expressing deep and sincere feelings of love or admiration.
The gladiolus flower is also known as the “sword lily” because of its tall and straight stem that is topped with a cluster of colorful blooms. The flowers themselves can be found in a wide range of colors, from white and pink to red, yellow, and purple.
They also come in various sizes and shapes, making them incredibly versatile for a wide range of floral arrangements.
In ancient Roman culture, the gladiolus was associated with gladiators, who were thought to be strong and noble warriors. This association with strength and courage has carried over to modern times, making the gladiolus an excellent choice for commemorating important events or achievements.
Overall, the gladiolus is a perfect choice to represent August because of its bold beauty, strength, and courage.
Whether you’re looking to express your love or admiration for someone special, or simply want to add a touch of drama to your floral arrangements, the gladiolus is an excellent choice.
September – Aster
Aster is a flower that represents September. This flower comes in a variety of colors, including pink, red, purple, blue, and white. It has a unique star-shaped bloom, which is why it was named aster, derived from the Greek word for star.
In the language of flowers, aster represents love, faith, wisdom, and valor. It is also believed to symbolize elegance, daintiness, and patience. Asters are commonly given as a gift to celebrate a 20th wedding anniversary, but they are also given as a birthday flower, especially to those born in September.
Asters are often associated with the changing of seasons, as they typically bloom in late summer and early fall. In this sense, they can be seen as a symbol of transition and adaptation.
Their hardiness and ability to thrive in different environments also make them a symbol of resilience and perseverance.
In ancient times, the Greeks believed that burning aster leaves would ward off evil spirits. The Romans, on the other hand, believed that aster was a symbol of Venus, the goddess of love and beauty.
In Chinese culture, aster is often associated with the Moon Festival, a celebration of the harvest and family reunions.
Overall, aster is a versatile flower that represents a variety of positive qualities and has a rich cultural history.
October – Marigold
Marigold is a flower that represents October, the tenth month of the year. This flower is known for its bright and vibrant colors, such as orange, yellow, and gold, which represent the changing colors of the leaves during autumn.
Marigolds have been used for centuries in various cultural traditions and are believed to have medicinal properties. In Mexico, marigolds are a popular flower during the Day of the Dead celebration and are used to honor loved ones who have passed away.
In addition to its cultural significance, the marigold is also known as the birth flower for October. It is said to symbolize creativity, passion, and positivity, making it a popular flower for gifting and decorating.
The marigold is also associated with strong emotions and is often given to someone who needs to be cheered up or lifted out of a difficult situation. It is believed to represent hope, love, and dedication, making it a powerful symbol of support and encouragement.
Overall, the marigold is a versatile flower that represents the changing of the seasons, cultural traditions, and strong emotions, making it a perfect choice for representing the month of October.
November – Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum is a beautiful flower that is commonly associated with the month of November. This flower is native to Asia and northeastern Europe, and it has a long history of use in traditional medicine, as well as in cultural celebrations.
In many cultures, chrysanthemums are considered to be symbols of death and mourning. They are often used in funerals and other somber occasions, and are commonly associated with the idea of letting go and moving on.
However, chrysanthemums also have a positive connotation, particularly in Japan where they are considered to be symbols of the sun and are associated with joy, longevity, and good luck.
In fact, chrysanthemums are the official flower of the Japanese Imperial Family, and the Chrysanthemum Throne is the traditional name of the Japanese monarchy.
In addition to their cultural significance, chrysanthemums are also prized for their beauty. They come in a wide variety of colors, including white, yellow, red, and purple, and can have single or double blooms.
Their petals are often arranged in a spiral pattern, giving them a unique and striking appearance.
Overall, chrysanthemums are a versatile and meaningful flower that can represent a range of emotions and ideas, including grief, joy, and longevity. Their association with the month of November makes them a popular choice for fall weddings and other seasonal events.
December – Narcissus
Narcissus is a flower that represents the month of December. Narcissus, also known as paperwhites, are native to the Mediterranean region and are part of the Amaryllis family. These flowers bloom in winter, making them a popular choice for Christmas decorations and gifts.
Narcissus has a rich history and is often associated with mythology. According to Greek mythology, Narcissus was a handsome young man who fell in love with his own reflection and eventually turned into the flower that now bears his name. The flower symbolizes self-love, beauty, and vanity.
Narcissus comes in many different colors, including white, yellow, and pink. They are a popular choice for winter weddings and can be used in bouquets, centerpieces, and boutonnieres. In addition to their beauty, Narcissus flowers also have a sweet fragrance that can fill a room.
In the language of flowers, Narcissus symbolizes good wishes, rebirth, and renewal. They are often given as gifts to wish someone a prosperous new year or to celebrate the holiday season.
Overall, Narcissus is a beautiful and meaningful flower that represents the month of December with its unique beauty and rich history.
My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.
