July Birth Flower: What is my Birth Flower?

You may wonder what the July birth flower is: July has two birth flowers: the Larkspur and the Water Lily

Why Are There Two Birth Flowers in July?

There are two birth flowers in July, larkspur and water lily, to provide more variety and choices for individuals to associate with their birth month. The tradition of assigning flowers to specific months dates back to ancient times, with various cultures having their own lists of flowers for each month. Over time, these lists have evolved and merged, resulting in multiple flowers being associated with each month in the modern era.

Having two birth flowers per month allows people to choose the flower that they feel a stronger connection with or prefer based on appearance, meaning, or symbolism. Additionally, this provides an opportunity for florists and gift-givers to have more options when selecting flowers for birthdays or other celebrations related to a person’s birth month.

In the case of July, larkspur and water lily both represent the height of summer with their vibrant colors and captivating beauty. They also carry meanings that resonate with the warm, sunny days and the abundance of life that July brings. The inclusion of two birth flowers for July enriches the tradition and offers greater flexibility, personalization, and variety for those who enjoy connecting with the symbolism and meanings associated with birth flowers.

July Primary Birth Flower: Larskpur (Delphinium)

Delphinium, also known as larkspur, is a flowering plant belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. It is known for its tall spikes of showy, spurred flowers and deeply lobed leaves. The plant has a rich history and symbolism that spans cultures and centuries.

Growth habit: Larkspur grows upright with single or multiple unbranched stems that can reach heights of 2-8 feet (60-240 cm), depending on the variety

Flowers: Larkspur flowers come in various colors, including blue, purple, pink, and white. They are arranged in dense, elongated clusters along the stem.

Blooming season: Larkspur typically blooms in summer, from June to September.

Hardiness: Larkspur is hardy in USDA zones 3-8, depending on the species and cultivar.

Sunlight and soil: Larkspur prefers full sun and well-draining, fertile soil.

Garden uses: Larkspur is popular in cottage gardens, mixed borders, and as a cut flower in floral arrangements due to its dramatic height and vibrant colors.

History: Larkspur is native to Europe and has been cultivated since ancient times for its ornamental and medicinal properties. In ancient Greece and Rome, larkspur was used as a remedy for ailments such as toothaches, eye problems, and skin irritations. The plant was also believed to have protective qualities, with some cultures using it to ward off evil spirits and keep away venomous creatures.

During the Middle Ages, larkspur continued to be used for medicinal purposes, and it was also associated with protection and bravery. The tall, showy spikes of larkspur were often used in heraldry and as a symbol of knightly virtues.

In the Victorian era, larkspur became a popular ornamental plant in gardens, and it was also used in the language of flowers, a method of communication through the use or arrangement of flowers. Different colors of larkspur were assigned specific meanings, allowing people to convey emotions and messages without the use of words.

Meaning: Larkspur carries various symbolic meanings that have evolved over time. Some common meanings associated with larkspur include:

• Lightness and levity: The tall, airy spikes of larkspur flowers are often associated with a sense of lightness and levity, symbolizing an open heart and a carefree spirit.
• Protection: Historically, larkspur was believed to have protective qualities, warding off evil spirits and venomous creatures. This symbolism has carried over into modern times, with larkspur sometimes being used as a symbol of protection and safety.
• Bravery and knightly virtues: Larkspur’s use in heraldry and its association with knightly virtues has led to it being a symbol of courage, strength, and nobility.

The different colors of larkspur also carry specific meanings:

• Purple larkspur: First love or the beginning of a romantic relationship.
• Pink larkspur: Fickleness or changeable emotions.
• White larkspur: Happiness, joy, and a light-hearted spirit.

Larkspur’s rich history, diverse meanings, and captivating beauty have made it a cherished and meaningful flower that continues to be valued and appreciated today.

Why it has been selected: Delphinium has been selected for its striking appearance, rich history, and symbolism. Its dramatic height, vibrant colors, and various meanings make it a popular and meaningful addition to gardens and floral arrangements.

Fun facts: The name “delphinium” is derived from the Greek word “delphis,” which means “dolphin,” due to the shape of the flower buds resembling a dolphin’s nose. The flowers of some delphinium species are used to make a blue dye.

July Secondary Birth Flower: Water Lily (Nymphaea)

Water lilies have a rich history and carry various symbolic meanings across different cultures and time periods. These aquatic plants have been cultivated and admired for their beauty, serenity, and spiritual significance.

Description: Water lilies are aquatic, perennial plants belonging to the Nymphaeaceae family. They are known for their large, floating leaves and showy, fragrant flowers that rest on the water’s surface.

Growth habit: Water lilies grow from tuberous roots anchored in the soil at the bottom of a pond or water feature. Their leaves and flowers emerge on long, flexible stems that float on the water’s surface. Water lilies come in various sizes, from small, compact varieties to larger species with expansive foliage.

Flowers: Water lily flowers come in a range of colors, including white, pink, yellow, and red. The flowers are cup-shaped, with multiple layers of petals surrounding a central, seed-filled receptacle.

Blooming season: Water lilies typically bloom from late spring to early fall, with flowers opening in the morning and closing in the late afternoon.

Hardiness: The hardiness of water lilies depends on the species and variety. Hardy water lilies can survive in USDA zones 3-11, while tropical water lilies thrive in USDA zones 10-12.

Sunlight and soil: Water lilies require full sun (at least 6 hours of sunlight per day) for optimal growth and flowering. They grow best in still or slow-moving water. The soil should be rich and loamy.

Garden uses: Water lilies are often used in ornamental ponds, water gardens, and aquatic features to add color, texture, and fragrance. They also provide shade and shelter for fish and other aquatic life.

History: Ancient Egypt: Water lilies, particularly the blue and white lotus (Nymphaea caerulea and Nymphaea lotus), played an essential role in ancient Egyptian culture. The flowers were used in religious rituals, art, and architecture as a symbol of creation, rebirth, and the sun. The blue lotus was also believed to have psychoactive properties and was used for its calming effects in religious ceremonies.

India: In Hinduism and Buddhism, the water lily or lotus holds significant spiritual meaning. The lotus is associated with several gods and goddesses and is often used as a symbol of purity, beauty, and enlightenment.

China: In Chinese culture, water lilies symbolize purity, enlightenment, and perseverance. They are often depicted in traditional Chinese art and literature and are considered a symbol of summer and abundance.

Meaning: Some common meanings associated with water lilies include:

• Purity and innocence: Water lilies, with their pristine, floating blooms, symbolize purity and innocence. Their ability to emerge from murky water and produce beautiful flowers represents spiritual and emotional growth.
• Enlightenment and spiritual awakening: In Buddhism, water lilies represent enlightenment and spiritual awakening. The journey of the water lily from the depths of muddy water to the surface, where it blooms, symbolizes the spiritual path from ignorance to enlightenment.
• Rebirth and renewal: The blooming cycle of water lilies, opening in the morning and closing in the evening, signifies the cycle of rebirth and renewal. This makes them a fitting symbol for new beginnings and transformation.

Why they have been selected: Water lilies have been selected and cultivated for their stunning appearance, rich history, and symbolism. Their floating leaves and vibrant flowers make them a captivating and meaningful addition to water gardens and aquatic features.

Fun facts: The largest water lily species, Victoria amazonica, has leaves that can grow up to 10 feet (3 meters) in diameter and can support the weight of a small child. Some water lily species are night-bloomers, opening their flowers in the evening and closing them in the morning.

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