Embrace your birth month with the enchanting beauty of your unique birth flower
Birth flowers, also known as birth month flowers, are flowers that represent each month of the year. They are often associated with certain characteristics or qualities that reflect the individual born in that month.
The tradition of associating specific flowers with each birth month dates back to ancient Roman times when people believed that certain flowers brought luck and protection during the month they bloomed. Over time, the symbolism and meanings of these flowers have evolved, and they have become a popular way to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions. Each month’s choice of primary and secondary flowers is based on historical associations, cultural symbolism, and seasonal blooming patterns.
The primary and secondary birth flowers for each month provide an additional layer of symbolism and choice when celebrating birthdays or other special occasions. The practice of associating flowers with particular months dates back to ancient civilizations, where flowers were believed to possess unique qualities and bring luck or protection during the month in which they bloomed.
Over time, as the tradition evolved, different cultures adopted their own interpretations and symbolism for flowers. The existence of both primary and secondary birth flowers can be attributed to these cultural differences and variations in local floral abundance. Having two birth flowers for each month allows for greater flexibility in choosing a flower that resonates with the individual’s personality, preferences, or cultural background.
Moreover, the blooming season for certain flowers may vary depending on regional climates and growing conditions. In some cases, a secondary birth flower may be more readily available or in bloom in a specific region, making it a more suitable choice for celebratory purposes. Ultimately, the existence of primary and secondary birth flowers offers an opportunity for people to explore and appreciate the rich symbolism and beauty of a wider variety of flowers associated with each month.
Here is a list of primary and secondary birth flowers for each month, along with a brief explanation of their symbolic meanings:
Carnations, scientifically known as Dianthus caryophyllus, are well-liked and adaptable herbaceous perennials that are often grown as biennials or annuals. Originating from the Mediterranean region, they have been cultivated for their sweet-scented and alluring flowers for more than two millennia. Carnations were widely used by the ancient Greeks and Romans for ceremonial occasions and as ingredients in perfumes and cosmetics. Later, they were introduced to other regions of the world, where they became a staple in gardens and floral arrangements, thus gaining immense popularity.
Carnations symbolize love, fascination, and distinction and are believed to convey deep emotions. Their symbolism depends on their color. Pink carnations represent gratitude, while red carnations represent love and admiration. White carnations symbolize purity and luck, while yellow carnations represent disappointment or rejection.
Carnations typically bloom in late spring to summer, but some cultivars can bloom year-round with proper care. Carnations prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained, fertile soil.
Fun fact: Carnations are edible and have a sweet, spicy flavor. They are often used in teas, desserts, and as garnish.
Snowdrops, or Galanthus, are small, bulbous perennial plants that produce white drooping flowers. They are known for being one of the earliest spring flowers to bloom, often emerging through the snow. They are native to Europe and the Middle East, where they grow in damp woodland areas. Snowdrops have been cultivated since the 16th century and have a rich cultural history.
They are associated with the Greek goddess Persephone and are often seen as a symbol of purity, hope, and new beginnings – because they often bloom during the coldest months, heralding the arrival of spring.
Snowdrops typically bloom in late winter or early spring. They prefer partial to full shade, making them an ideal choice for woodland gardens. Snowdrops thrive in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Fun fact: Galanthophiles are people who collect and study snowdrops, with some rare varieties selling for thousands of dollars.
Violas, also known as Violets, are enchanting plants that can be annual, biennial, or perennial. They are indigenous to several regions in the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, and North America. Known for their small yet colorful flowers and sweet fragrance, they have been revered for their beauty and scent for centuries. Violets have historically held cultural and religious significance in different civilizations, such as ancient Greece, Rome, and Persia. Napoleon Bonaparte was said to be fond of violets and even wore a locket containing violets picked by his wife, Empress Josephine. Violets have also been utilized for medicinal purposes and in perfumes, cosmetics, and culinary applications.
Violets represent modesty, faithfulness, and spiritual wisdom, qualities often associated with people born in February.
They typically bloom in the spring and summer. They prefer partial shade to full sun with moist, well-draining soil. Violets are often used as ground cover, in rock gardens, or as a charming addition to woodland gardens and shaded borders.
Fun fact: Violets are edible and can be used to make tea, syrup, and candied flowers.
Primrose, or Primula, is a genus of herbaceous perennial plants that produce clusters of flowers in various colors, including white, yellow, pink, and purple. They are often used as ornamental plants in gardens; some species are used in traditional medicine.
Primroses are native to the Northern Hemisphere and are found in temperate regions, including Europe, Asia, and North America. They have a rich cultural history, with references to the plant dating back to ancient Greek and Roman mythology. They were also popular among medieval herbalists and have been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
Primroses are often associated with youth and new beginnings and are sometimes used to symbolize love, devotion, and purity.
Primroses usually bloom in early to mid-spring, and some species may even flower in fall or winter. They prefer partial shade and are well-suited for woodland gardens or areas with filtered light. Primroses prefer moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, but they can also tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy or clay soils.
Fun Fact: The name “primrose” comes from the Latin word “prima rosa,” meaning “first rose,” as they are one of the first flowers to bloom in spring.
Daffodils (Narcissus) are bulbous perennial plants that are native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. These iconic flowers are popular for their trumpet-shaped, bright blooms that announce the arrival of spring. Narcissus has been cultivated for its stunning beauty for thousands of years and was also utilized by ancient Greeks and Romans in traditional medicine, perfumes, and cosmetics.
Daffodils symbolize new beginnings, rebirth, and the arrival of spring, reflecting the optimism and hope of those born in March.
They bloom in early spring and can last for several weeks. Daffodils thrive in full sun or partial shade and prefer well-drained soil. Planting daffodil bulbs in the fall, about 2-4 weeks before the ground freezes, ensures a beautiful display of flowers in the spring.
Fun fact: Narcissus is named after the Greek mythological figure Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection in a pool of water and became the namesake of the flower because of its reflective qualities.
Jonquil is actually a specific type or variety of daffodil (Narcissus jonquilla) rather than a distinct, separate flower. In some regions or cultures, the term “jonquil” might be used interchangeably with “daffodil,” but it’s important to note that jonquils are part of the larger daffodil family. Both daffodils and jonquils share similar symbolic meanings, representing new beginnings, rebirth, and the arrival of spring.
Daisies, including the common daisy, oxeye daisy, and Shasta daisy, are charming and versatile perennial flowers. They have been appreciated for their beauty and medicinal properties for centuries. Originating from Europe and Western Asia, daisies were used in traditional medicine to treat conditions like coughs, digestive problems, and skin ailments. Later, they were introduced to other regions of the world, where they gained popularity as garden plants.
Daisies represent innocence, purity, and loyal love, capturing the cheerful and youthful nature of those born in April.
Daisies bloom from early spring to late autumn, depending on the species and local climate conditions. They are adaptable and can grow in various soil types. Daisies prefer full sun, which means at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. They are generally low-maintenance and can tolerate moderately poor soil conditions.
Fun fact: The name “daisy” comes from the Old English “daes eage,” meaning “day’s eye,” referring to the way the flower opens and closes with the sun.
Sweet peas, or Lathyrus odoratus, are fragrant annual climbing plants that produce delicate, colorful flowers in shades of pink, purple, blue, and white. They are often grown for their pleasant fragrance and as cut flowers. Sweet peas are native to the Mediterranean region, including Sicily and Southern Italy. They have been cultivated for their beauty and fragrance since the 17th century. They gained popularity in the 19th century, particularly in England, where they became a staple in gardens and floral arrangements.
Sweet Peas symbolize blissful pleasure, gratitude, and farewell, expressing appreciation and affection for loved ones.
Sweet peas typically bloom from late spring to fall. They need at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive and require well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter.
Fun Fact: Sweet peas are a popular cut flower and are used in floral arrangements and wedding bouquets.
Lily of the Valley, or Convallaria majalis, is a fragrant, shade-loving perennial plant that produces delicate bell-shaped flowers in late spring. The plant has glossy green leaves and grows in clumps. Lily of the valley is native to Europe and is also found in parts of Asia and North America. It has been cultivated for centuries for its beauty and sweet fragrance. It has also been used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments, including heart conditions and headaches.
These delicate flowers symbolize sweetness, humility, and the return of happiness, reflecting the gentle and loving nature of people born in May.
Lily of the valley typically blooms in late spring, and it prefers partial to full shade. It can grow in a range of soil types but prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Fun Fact: In many cultures, the lily of the valley is used as a symbol of luck and is often given as a gift on May Day.
Hawthorn, or Crataegus, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that produces fragrant white or pink flowers in spring and red berries in fall. It is often used as a hedgerow plant and is popular in natural landscaping. Hawthorn is native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, and North America. Hawthorn has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, particularly to treat heart conditions. It has also been used in traditional medicine to treat digestive problems, anxiety, and skin conditions.
Hawthorns represent hope and supreme happiness, signifying the optimism and joy that May brings.
Hawthorn typically blooms in spring and prefers full sun to partial shade. It can grow in a range of soil types but prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Fun Fact: In some cultures, the hawthorn is believed to have magical properties and is used in spells and rituals for protection and love.
Roses, also known as Rosa spp., are widely loved and admired for their beauty, versatility, and fragrance. They are one of the most popular flowering plants in the world and come in a vast array of colors, shapes, and sizes, with over 300 species and thousands of cultivars. With a rich history dating back thousands of years, roses have been cultivated in ancient civilizations such as China, Egypt, and Greece and have been used for medicinal, culinary, and ornamental purposes. The United States, England, and Bulgaria have all designated roses as their national flower.
Roses are iconic symbols of love, passion, and beauty, embodying the romantic and passionate spirit of those born in June.
Roses bloom from spring to frost. They require well-drained soils and at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow and bloom optimally.
Fun Fact: The oldest known fossil of a rose is over 35 million years old.
Honeysuckle is a woody, deciduous vine or shrub that produces fragrant, tubular flowers in summer. The plant has oval-shaped leaves and can grow up to 30 feet (9 meters) long. Honeysuckle is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It has been used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments, including coughs, colds, and fevers. It has also been used in Chinese medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Honeysuckle symbolizes the bonds of love and the sweet, enduring connection between people.
Honeysuckle typically blooms in summer and prefers full sun to partial shade. It can grow in a range of soil types but prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Fun Fact: Honeysuckle is an important food source for birds, butterflies, and other pollinators. The nectar of honeysuckle flowers can be used to make honey.
Larkspur (Delphinium) is a group of tall, elegant flowering plants renowned for their vibrant colors and spiky blooms. These plants are native to the Northern Hemisphere and are prized for their striking appearance, adding height and drama to garden beds. They are frequently used as a focal point in gardens, owing to their impressive height and vibrant colors. They are popular in borders, cottage gardens, and cutting gardens, and their long-lasting blooms also make them a favorite for floral arrangements.
Larkspur represents lightness, levity, and strong bonds of love, reflecting the carefree and loving nature of those born in July.
Larkspur typically blooms from late spring to early summer. Some varieties can have a second flush of blooms in late summer or early fall with proper care. They prefer full sun and thrive in well-draining fertile soil.
Fun fact: The name “delphinium” comes from the Greek word “delphis,” which means dolphin. This is because the flower’s nectar spur shape resembles a dolphin.
Water lilies (Nymphaea) are aquatic plants that produce round, floating leaves and stunning, fragrant flowers that float on the surface of ponds and lakes. They come in a range of colors, including white, pink, yellow, and red, and are often grown for their beauty and ability to provide shade and oxygen to aquatic ecosystems. Water lilies are native to tropical and temperate regions across the world, including North and South America, Asia, and Australia.
Water lilies have a rich history dating back thousands of years, with evidence of their use in ancient civilizations such as Egypt and China. They have been used in traditional medicine for their healing properties and have also been celebrated in art and literature.
Water Lilies symbolize purity, enlightenment, and rebirth, embodying the spiritual growth and renewal associated with July.
They typically bloom from late spring to early fall and prefer full sun to partial shade. They require well-draining soil and prefer to grow in still or slow-moving water.
Fun Fact: The leaves of water lilies are hydrophobic, meaning they repel water and dirt, which helps to keep them clean.
Gladiolus also called the sword lily, is a stunning bulbous perennial that originates from South Africa, Europe, and Asia. Its striking tall flower spikes and extensive range of colors make it highly prized. For centuries, people have cultivated gladiolus for their ornamental value, particularly in South Africa and Europe, where they were used as cut flowers and for their medicinal properties. These plants are available in a wide variety of colors, including red, pink, purple, yellow, orange, and white, with some bi-colored or patterned varieties. The flowers bloom from the bottom to the top of the spike, producing an impressive display.
Gladiolus is the birth flower for August and symbolizes strength, integrity, and infatuation, capturing the strong and resilient spirit of those born in August.
Gladiolus typically blooms in summer and prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Staggered planting can result in continuous blooms throughout the growing season. Gladiolus are often used in borders, cutting gardens, and as a focal point in garden design due to their tall, dramatic flower spikes and wide range of colors.
Fun fact: In the Victorian era, giving someone a bouquet of gladiolus was a way of telling them that they had pierced the giver’s heart with their love.
Poppies are vibrant, herbaceous annual or perennial plants with showy flowers that come in a variety of colors, including red, pink, orange, yellow, and white. They are easily recognizable by their cup-shaped petals and prominent black center. Poppies are native to Europe and Asia but have been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America and Australia.
Poppies have a rich history dating back thousands of years, with evidence of their cultivation in ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans. They have been used for medicinal purposes, as well as for their ornamental value.
Poppies represent imagination, dreams, and eternal sleep, signifying the balance between the real and the imagined in August-born individuals.
Poppies typically bloom in late spring to early summer and prefer full sun to partial shade. They can grow in a range of soil types but prefer well-draining soil.
Fun Fact: Poppies are often used in cooking and baking, particularly in the form of poppy seeds.
Asters are beautiful flowering plants native to different parts of the world, such as North America, Europe, and Asia. Their daisy-like appearance and vibrant blooms make them a favorite among gardeners for attracting pollinators. Aster flowers come in a range of colors, including red, pink, purple, blue, and white. Asters can be divided into several main groups, including New England asters, New York asters, and European Michaelmas daisies.
Asters symbolize love, wisdom, and faith, reflecting the deep emotional and intellectual qualities of people born in September.
They typically bloom from late summer to early fall. Their blossoms provide a much-needed burst of color in the garden as the growing season comes to an end.
Asters prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. They are often used in borders, meadow gardens, cottage gardens, and container plantings, making them versatile and adaptable plants for various settings.
Fun fact: Asters have a long history of medicinal and culinary use and have been used to treat everything from headaches to snake bites.
Morning Glory is a beautiful and fast-growing annual vine that produces vibrant trumpet-shaped flowers in a range of colors, including blue, purple, pink, and white. The flowers usually bloom in the morning and close up in the afternoon. Morning Glory is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including Asia and Europe.
Morning Glory has a long history of use in traditional medicine in various cultures, including as a treatment for constipation, headaches, and rheumatism. It has also been cultivated for its ornamental value for centuries.
Morning Glory represents affection, unrequited love, and mortality, symbolizing the fleeting beauty of life.
Morning Glory typically blooms from early summer to early fall and prefers full sun to partial shade. It can grow in a range of soil types but prefers well-draining soil.
Fun Fact: The seeds of morning glory contain a natural hallucinogen called LSA, which can cause psychoactive effects if ingested.
Marigolds, scientifically known as Tagetes, are colorful flowering plants that are native to North and South America. They are appreciated for their cheerful blooms and low maintenance requirements. Marigolds have been cultivated for centuries and have been valued for their beauty, medicinal properties, and cultural significance. The Aztecs used marigolds in religious ceremonies and traditional medicine, as well as for ornamental purposes.
Marigolds represent warmth, creativity, and the beauty of the sun, embodying the passionate and artistic spirit of those born in October.
Marigolds typically bloom from late spring to fall, and the pungent foliage helps deter pests. They prefer full sun and thrive in well-draining fertile soil. Marigolds are easy to grow, tolerant of heat and drought, and attractive to pollinators.
Most marigolds are annual plants, meaning they complete their life cycle in one growing season and must be replanted yearly.
Fun fact: Marigolds are edible and are sometimes used as a natural food coloring.
Cosmos is a stunning annual flowering plant that produces delicate, daisy-like flowers in a range of colors, including pink, white, and shades of red. The foliage is feathery and delicate, adding to the plant’s charm. Cosmos is native to Mexico but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including the United States and Europe. It has been cultivated as an ornamental plant for centuries and was prized by the Aztecs for its medicinal properties.
Cosmos symbolize harmony, balance, and tranquility, signifying the inner peace and equilibrium that October-born individuals often possess.
Cosmos flowers typically bloom from early summer to late fall and prefer full sun. They can grow in a range of soil types but prefer well-draining soil.
Fun Fact: Cosmos is a popular cut flower due to its long vase life.
Chrysanthemums, commonly known as “mums,” are perennial plants famous for their brightly colored, showy flowers. These flowers have been cultivated for more than 2,500 years, particularly in China, where they were grown for both their medicinal and ornamental properties. Later, the flowers were introduced to Japan, becoming a national symbol. Chrysanthemums were then brought to North America and Europe, where they became popular garden and florist plants.
Chrysanthemums symbolize friendship, love, and joy, capturing the warm and sociable nature of people born in November.
They typically bloom from late summer to late autumn, and their flowers can last up to several weeks. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil and are relatively easy to care for.
Fun fact: in Japan, Chrysanthemums are a symbol of the emperor and the imperial family and are featured prominently in the Imperial Seal and the Imperial Throne.
Peonies, scientifically known as Paeonia, are a beloved flowering plant famous for their large, lush, and fragrant blooms. They have a rich history of cultivation, dating back over 2,000 years. Initially grown in China, peonies were highly prized for both their medicinal and ornamental uses. Later, they were brought to North America and Europe, where they gained popularity as a favored garden plant.
Peonies represent prosperity, honor, and romance, reflecting the abundant and passionate spirit of November-born individuals.
Peonies come in a variety of colors, including pink, white, and red, and bloom in late spring to early summer. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them popular for gardens and landscapes.
Fun fact: Peonies have a long lifespan, with some plants living up to 100 years.
Paperwhites, also known as Narcissus tazetta, are bulbous perennial plants that produce small, delicate white flowers with a pleasant fragrance. The foliage is narrow and grass-like, making it an excellent choice for container gardening. Paperwhites are native to the Mediterranean region, specifically the Iberian Peninsula. They have been cultivated for centuries and were popularized in Victorian times for their beauty and ease of cultivation.
Paperwhites symbolize rebirth, hope, and new beginnings, reflecting the fresh start and optimism that the end of the year brings.
They typically bloom in late winter or early spring and prefer bright, indirect light. They grow best in well-draining soil.
Fun Fact: Paperwhites are often forced indoors for holiday displays.
Holly is a deciduous or evergreen shrub or tree with glossy, dark green leaves and bright red berries. The plant produces small, inconspicuous white flowers in the spring. Holly is native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia. It has been used for centuries as a decorative plant and was highly prized by the ancient Romans for its beauty and symbolism.
Holly represents protection, happiness, and goodwill, symbolizing the holiday season’s festive spirit and joy.
Holly typically blooms in the spring and prefers full sun or partial shade. It grows best in well-draining soil.
Fun Fact: Holly is dioecious, meaning that individual plants produce either male or female flowers. Female plants produce bright red berries.
Plant Type | Annuals, Bulbs, Climbers, Perennials, Roses, Shrubs |
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Plant Type | Annuals, Bulbs, Climbers, Perennials, Roses, Shrubs |
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Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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