May Birth Flower: What is my Birth Flower?

You may wonder what the May birth flower is: May has two birth flowers:  the Lily of the Valley and the Hawthorn.

Why Are There Two Birth Flowers in May?

The tradition of having two birth flowers in May, as in many other months, offers a greater variety and choice for individuals to associate with their birth month. This allows for a richer and more personalized connection to the flowers that represent them.

Having two birth flowers for May enables people to choose the one they feel a stronger connection with based on appearance, fragrance, meaning, or symbolism. It also offers florists and gift-givers more options when selecting flowers for birthdays or other celebrations related to a person’s birth month. In some cases, one of the flowers might be more readily available or have a longer blooming season, making it a more practical choice for certain regions or times of the year.

May Primary Birth Flower: Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis)

Lily of the Valley has a long history as a popular and meaningful flower in various cultures. It is native to Eurasia and has been cultivated for centuries for its ornamental, medicinal, and symbolic properties.

Description: Lily of the Valley is a perennial plant with arching stems, lance-shaped leaves, and small, bell-shaped, fragrant white flowers.

Growth habit: It forms dense colonies and reaches a height of 6-12 inches (15-30 cm).

Flowers: The flowers are pendulous, white or pinkish, and arranged along a slender, arching stem.

Blooming season: Lily of the Valley blooms in mid to late spring.

Hardiness: It is hardy in USDA zones 2-7.

Sunlight and soil: Lily of the Valley prefers partial to full shade and well-draining, fertile, moist soil.

Garden uses: It is often used as a ground cover, in woodland gardens, or as a cut flower.

History: Lily of the Valley has been used in traditional medicine, particularly in Europe, for its medicinal properties. The plant contains cardiac glycosides, which have been used to treat heart conditions. However, it is important to note that all parts of the plant are toxic, and it should only be used medicinally under the supervision of a qualified professional.

In addition to its medicinal uses, Lily of the Valley has played a role in various legends and stories. In Christianity, the flower is sometimes associated with the Virgin Mary and symbolizes her tears, which are said to have turned into Lily of the Valley flowers. The flower has also been linked to Saint Leonard, who is said to have fought a dragon in the woods, with Lily of the Valley flowers blooming where his blood was shed.

Meaning: Lily of the Valley carries several symbolic meanings. It is often associated with humility and purity, as its delicate appearance and fragrant scent suggest modesty and innocence. The flower also symbolizes the return of happiness, as it typically blooms in late spring, heralding the end of winter and the arrival of warmer, sunnier days.

Why it has been selected: As a birth flower for May, Lily of the Valley represents the sweetness and joy of people born in this month. The flower is also popular in wedding bouquets and arrangements, symbolizing the purity, happiness, and luck the bride hopes to bring into her new life.

Fun facts: Lily of the Valley is the national flower of Finland and is often used in bridal bouquets and royal events.

May Secondary Birth Flower: Hawthorn (Crataegus)

Hawthorn has a rich history in various cultures. Native to temperate regions of North America, Europe, and Asia, it has been used for its medicinal, culinary, and ornamental properties.

Description: Hawthorn is a deciduous shrub or small tree with lobed leaves, sharp thorns, and clusters of small, white, or pink flowers followed by small, red fruit.

Growth habit: Hawthorn typically reaches a height of 15-30 feet (4.5-9 meters).

Flowers: The flowers are small, usually white or pink, and form clusters on the branches.

Blooming season: Hawthorn blooms in late spring.

Hardiness: It is hardy in USDA zones 4-8, depending on the species.

Sunlight and soil: Hawthorn prefers full sun to light shade and well-draining, fertile soil.

Garden uses: It is often used as a hedge, specimen plant, or in wildlife gardens.

History: Hawthorn has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly for treating heart conditions, high blood pressure, and digestive issues. The flowers, leaves, and berries of the plant contain various bioactive compounds that have been studied for their potential health benefits.

In addition to its medicinal uses, Hawthorn has played a role in folklore and mythology. In Celtic mythology, the Hawthorn tree is associated with the fairy realm, and it is believed to possess protective qualities. The tree is also linked to May Day celebrations, with its blossoming branches often used to decorate homes and public spaces to usher in the warmer months.

Meaning: Hawthorn carries several symbolic meanings. It is often associated with hope, as its flowers bloom in late spring, signaling the arrival of warmer weather and new beginnings. The tree is also considered a symbol of love and protection, as its thorny branches can provide shelter for small animals and are believed to protect against evil spirits in some folklore.

Why it has been selected: As a birth flower for May, Hawthorn represents the protective and loving nature of people born in this month. Its blossoms and berries can also be seen as symbols of fertility and abundance, with the tree often used in weddings and fertility rites in various cultures. The combination of its medicinal uses, cultural significance, and symbolic meanings make Hawthorn a unique and meaningful plant that continues to be valued and appreciated today.

Fun facts: In Celtic mythology, the Hawthorn tree is associated with the fairy realm, and its flowers and fruit are used to make teas, jams, and wines.