Birth flowers are more than just beautiful plants; they offer insights into our personalities, connect us to nature and link us to the traditions of past generations. Each month features a primary and secondary flower, these birth flowers encapsulate a range of emotions, traits and stories.
This guide will seek to understand what your birth flower is and what it means. The concept of birth flowers offers a unique and personal way to explore the intertwining of nature, culture and identity.
Check out the symbolism behind your birth flowers and explore how they reflect your identity and heritage.
1. January - Carnation
Carnations, or Dianthus caryophyllus, is one of January’s birth flowers that are popular for many due to their ruffled petals and a wide array of colours. Originating from the Mediterranean, they have been cherished for over two thousand years and used by ancient civilisations in ceremonies and for their sweet fragrance.
Carnation flowers symbolise deep emotions: pink for gratitude, red for love and admiration, white for purity and luck and yellow for disappointment. Carnations can also thrive in various conditions, preferring full sun to partial shade and fertile, well-drained soil. It is believed that carnations sprouted from the Virgin Mary's tears, marking them as symbols of remembrance and love across cultures. Thriving in partial to full shade, snowdrops are ideal for woodland gardens, as they bloom in the cold months.
2. January - Snowdrop
Snowdrops, or Galanthus, contrast the vibrant carnation with their delicate white petals, symbolising hope and rebirth, resonating with the qualities of genuineness and down-to-earthiness often attributed to January-born individuals. These small, bell-shaped flowers thrive in partial to full shade, snowdrops are ideal for woodland gardens, embodying purity, hope and new beginnings as they bloom in the cold months.
Native to Europe and the Middle East, snowdrops thrive in partial to full shade and well-drained, organic-rich soil. Their connection to the Greek goddess Persephone and their embodiment of loyalty and genuineness make them a fitting companion to the carnation for January-born individuals.
What January’s Birth Flowers Say About You: If you are born in January, carnations and snowdrops are likely to be genuine, down-to-earth and capable of finding hope in the bleakest situations. They portray individuals as resilient, with an innate ability to navigate life's challenges gracefully and optimistically.
3. February - Violet
February's birth flower, Violets, are enchanting blooms found in annual, biennial, or perennial forms across various regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia and North America. Renowned for their vibrant colours, heart-shaped petals and delightful scent, violets have been celebrated for centuries for their aesthetic appeal and symbolic meanings. These flowers have been important in cultural and religious contexts, from ancient civilisations like Greece and Rome to Persia.
Napoleon Bonaparte's affection for violets, famously carrying them in a locket from Empress Josephine, highlights their romantic allure. Beyond their beauty, violets have been used in medicinal remedies, perfumes and culinary dishes. Violets symbolise modesty, faithfulness and spiritual wisdom and resonate with the qualities attributed to those born in February.
4. February - Primrose
Primrose, or Primula, brings a burst of colour with its vibrant blooms ranging from white to purple. Native to the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, primroses symbolise youth, renewal and beauty. With a cultural backdrop that extends to ancient mythology and mediaeval herbalism, these flowers signify love, devotion, renewal, youth and purity. Primroses thrive in partial shade and moist, well-draining soil, reflecting the optimism and beauty of February babies.
What February’s Birth Flowers Say About You: If your birth flowers are violet and primrose means that your personality is likely marked by a blend of spiritual depth, faithfulness and an ever-youthful spirit. You may find yourself drawn to both the introspective wisdom that the violet represents and the bright optimism of the primrose, embodying a persona grounded in loyalty and buoyant with an optimistic outlook on life.
5. March - Daffodil
Daffodils, with their bright, trumpet-shaped blooms, are native to Europe, Western Asia and North Africa. These flowers have been celebrated for their beauty and are used in traditional medicine, perfumes and cosmetics by ancient Greeks and Romans.
Daffodils embody new beginnings, rebirth and the joy of spring, perfectly mirroring the optimism of March-born individuals. Daffodils require full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil, blooming into vibrant yellow flowers symbolising unparalleled love. As March's birth flower, daffodils bring hope and celebration, marking the birthdays of those born in this month with beauty and the promise of new beginnings.
6. March - Jonquil
With their bright white petals encircling a vibrant yellow centre, Jonquil stands out for their beauty and symbolic meanings. Jonquils also symbolise desire, friendship, compassion and dreamy and loving traits, celebrating this month's unique blend of independence, renewal and affection.
As birth month flowers, Jonquils also offer a way to communicate non-verbally, conveying affection, admiration and the wish for happiness to the recipient. Whether planted in gardens or presented in bouquets, these flowers bring joy and a sense of connection among people, emphasising the universal language and power of flowers to express deep sentiments.
What March’s Birth Flowers Say About You: Daffodils and jonquils as birth flowers suggest you are compassionate, loving, fiercely independent and imaginative. Your personality is likely marked by a blend of optimism and resilience, driving you to pursue your dreams with determination. The cheerful disposition of these flowers mirrors your ability to bring light and warmth into the lives of others, making you a cherished friend and a beacon of hope.
7. April - Daisy
Daisies originate from Europe and Western Asia and are known for their simple yet striking appearance. They also have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Symbolising innocence, purity and loyal love, these flowers also reflect the cheerful and youthful spirit of April-born individuals. Daisies are also adaptable and thrive in various soil types under full sun. With their wide colour palette, including whites, yellows, reds, pinks and oranges, these flowers offer a vibrant choice for gifts and garden selections.
8. April - Sweet Pea
April's birth flower, the sweet pea, has an array of hues, from soft purples and pinks to vibrant reds and whites. Sweet peas, or Lathyrus odoratus, are annual climbers beloved for their fragrant flowers, making them popular for gardens and floral arrangements.
Originating from the Mediterranean, specifically, regions like Sicily and Southern Italy, sweet peas have captivated hearts since the 17th century. Their charm and fragrance gained widespread admiration in 19th-century England, embedding them into the fabric of garden culture and decorative bouquets. Sweet peas symbolise pleasure, friendship, gratitude and the bittersweet nature of farewells, expressing deep affection and appreciation. These flowers require at least six hours of direct sunlight and fertile, well-drained soil.
What April’s Birth Flowers Say About You: If your birth flowers are daisy and sweet pea, it tells that you embody a spirit of innocence and purity, coupled with a deep appreciation for the bonds of friendship. Your personality is likely imbued with joy and a knack for making others feel loved and appreciated. The blend of these flowers' meanings suggests you possess a unique combination of resilience, optimism and the ability to cherish and foster meaningful relationships.
9. May - Lily Of The Valley
Lily of the Valley, or Convallaria majalis, is a fragrant plant that produces delicate bell-shaped flowers. Native to Europe, it symbolises sweetness, humility and the return of happiness, reflecting the gentle nature of May-born individuals.
This plant prefers shaded areas and moist, well-draining soil and its brief blooming period adds to its allure, symbolising the fleeting nature of happiness and the importance of cherishing it. These flowers are also often seen in royal bridal bouquets, signifying hope and happiness, and are surrounded by legends of their origin from Eve's tears.
10. May - Hawthorn
For those born in May, Hawthorns, or Crataegus, are your birth flower, which stands out with its bright white petals and distinctive centre antennas, complemented by small red berries that add a vibrant touch to any floral arrangement. Native to the Northern Hemisphere, hawthorn or Crataegus has been valued for its ornamental use and medicinal properties for centuries, especially in treating heart conditions, digestive issues, anxiety and skin problems, showcasing their importance in traditional medicine.
Hawthorns also represent hope and supreme happiness, reflecting the optimism and joy of May. They adapt well to different conditions, preferring full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. As a birth flower, hawthorns also represent deep love and the optimism that defines those born in May. Celebrating birthdays with hawthorns honours the individual and evokes the beauty and enduring spirit of this time of year.
What May’s Birth Flowers Say About You: Lily of the valley and hawthorn flowers suggest that if you're born in May, you possess a gentle, loving nature filled with hope and enduring happiness. Your personality values love, joy and the simple beauties of life.
11. June - Rose
Roses have captivated hearts for millennia with their diverse colours, shapes and sizes. Known for their beauty and versatility, roses symbolise deep love, passion and beauty. They require well-drained soils and plenty of sunlight, symbolising the growth and flourishing of love over time.
Roses, with their rich history and over 300 species, offer a colour for every emotion and occasion, from Ecuador roses signifying love to white roses representing purity. Roses are also celebrated as the national flower of several countries and embody the romantic spirit of June-born individuals, making them a versatile choice to celebrate birthdays.
12. June - Honeysuckle
June's birth flower, the honeysuckle, symbolises pure happiness, deep love and affection. This enchanting flower, known for its sweet aroma and delicate, thin petals, comes in a mesmerising array of colours. Honeysuckle is a versatile plant, thriving as a woody, deciduous vine or shrub. It blooms with fragrant, tubular flowers during the summer, adding beauty and fragrance to gardens and landscapes.
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, honeysuckle has been used to treat coughs, colds, fevers and more. In Chinese medicine, honeysuckle's benefits extend to cooling the body and treating various health issues. Honeysuckle represents the enduring bonds of love and the sweet connection between individuals. This flower thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions and prefers moist, well-draining soil enriched with organic matter.
What June’s Birth Flowers Say About You: If your birth flowers are rose and honeysuckle, you are likely to embody qualities of love, passion and a deep appreciation for the beauty in life. Your personality is marked by an ability to form strong, lasting connections and a natural inclination towards joy and affection.
13. July - Larkspur
Larkspur, or Delphinium's tall, elegant structure with vibrant colours and is native to the Northern Hemisphere, these spiky blooms are a garden favourite, used to create a dramatic effect in borders and floral arrangements. Larkspur symbolises lightness, fun and strong bonds of love and thrives in full sun and well-drained, fertile soil. These flowers have a variety of colours, from pink and purple to white and blue, representing cheerfulness, goodwill and beauty, mirroring the joyful and caring nature of those born in July.
14. July - Water Lily
Water lilies, floating gracefully on water surfaces, symbolise innocence, purity, fertility and peace. These aquatic plants, with their round, floating leaves and fragrant flowers, come in white, pink, yellow and red shades. The purple varieties of water lilies, considered sacred in ancient Egypt, represent the sun and rebirth. Water lilies have been celebrated in ancient civilisations for their beauty and healing properties, especially in Egyptian culture, where they were seen as sacred. Symbolising purity, enlightenment and rebirth, water lilies resonate with the spiritual growth and renewal of those celebrating birthdays in July.
What July’s Birth Flowers Say About You: Larkspur and water lily flowers convey a message of cheerfulness, goodwill and a serene approach to life's challenges, making them reflective of the optimistic and loving characteristics of those who were born in July.
15. August - Gladiolus
Gladiolus, also known as the sword lily, features tall flower spikes adorned with various colours, including pink, orange, yellow, purple and white. Originating from South Africa, Europe and Asia, gladiolus has been cultivated for its ornamental and medicinal values. Gladiolus also symbolises strength, integrity and infatuation, reflecting the strong and resilient spirit of those born in August. They require full sun and well-drained soil to flourish and are now popular for bright, decorative floral arrangements.
16. August - Poppy
Poppies, with their vibrant colours and distinctive black centres, stand out with meanings of hope and remembrance, particularly in commemorating fallen soldiers. These cup-shaped flowers bloom in various colours, from the iconic red poppies to pink, orange and white. As a native to Europe and Asia, poppies have been cultivated since ancient times for medicinal and ornamental purposes. Poppies grow best in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. They also represent imagination, dreams and eternal sleep, embodying the balance between reality and fantasy for those born in August.
What August’s Birth Flowers Say About You: Gladiolus and poppy suggest you have a thoughtful nature, often contemplating the deeper meanings of life while holding a hopeful outlook for the future. You have a strong character, are capable of great courage and profound sensitivity and can navigate life's challenges with grace and a hopeful heart.
17. September - Aster
Aster flowers, with their daisy-like appearance and vibrant colours, including red, pink, purple, blue and white. Native to various parts of the world, including North America, Europe and Asia, asters possess a daisy-like charm that captivates the eye and attracts pollinators to gardens.
These flowers are admired for their aesthetic appeal and rich symbolic meanings of love, wisdom and faith—qualities that resonate deeply with those born in September. Thriving in full sun to partial shade and preferring well-draining soil, asters are versatile and adaptable. They can be used in various garden designs—from borders and meadow gardens to cottage gardens and container plantings.
18. September - Morning Glory
Morning glories, with their trumpet-shaped flowers, paint the garden in shades of blue, purple, pink and white, each bloom centred with a contrasting white or yellow heart. The morning glory is a fast-growing vine cherished for its ornamental value and ability to thrive in various environments. Beyond their visual appeal, morning glories have been utilised in traditional medicine across cultures for ailments such as constipation, headaches and rheumatism.
Native to the Americas but found worldwide, morning glory flowers open in the morning and close in the afternoon, representing affection, unrequited love and the fleeting nature of life. As a birth flower for September, the morning glory encourages those born this month to embrace the beauty, peace and harmony in their lives, celebrating the unique colours and patterns each individual brings to the world.
What September’s Birth Flowers Say About You: If your birth flowers are aster and morning glory, flowers depict you as a person of great emotional and intellectual depth, someone who values relationships, possesses a thoughtful mind and cherishes beauty every day, making them a beloved companion and friend.
19. October - Marigold
Marigolds are a vibrant symbol of warmth, creativity and the beauty of the sun. Known scientifically as Tagetes, marigolds are native to the Americas and are celebrated for their cheerful orange and yellow blooms, though they can also be found in red and white.
Marigolds have been cultivated for their aesthetic appeal, medicinal uses and cultural importance for centuries. The Aztecs, for instance, utilised marigolds in religious ceremonies, traditional medicine and decoration, highlighting the flower's deep-rooted significance across cultures. Marigolds are easy to grow, heat and drought-tolerant, and a magnet for pollinators, thanks to their intense foliage that naturally deters pests. These flowers also prefer full sun and well-draining fertile soil, making them a practical and beautiful addition to any garden.
20. October - Cosmos
Cosmos flowers, with their delicate, daisy-like appearance and feathery foliage, come in pink, white and shades of red. These flowers originate from Mexico and have been spread worldwide for their ornamental and medicinal qualities. Cosmos are celebrated for their aesthetic appeal and deep symbolic meanings of harmony, beauty, kindness, infinity and resilience. Historically, priests planted them to encourage harmony and order within their gardens, reflecting a sense of peace and balance.
Despite their delicate appearance, cosmos are robust and resilient, thriving in various soil types as long as they are well-draining. They prefer full sun, flourishing under bright conditions to produce vibrant and cheerful blooms. Symbolising harmony, balance and tranquillity, cosmos flowers resonate with the qualities often attributed to those born in October.
What October’s Birth Flowers Say About You: If you are born in October, marigold and cosmos reflect your ability to maintain balance and serenity in your life, as well as your kindness and adaptability. You are a passionate and artistic spirit, illustrating a person who brings light and joy to the lives of others. You are also a person of deep warmth and an inner peace that guides your way through life's challenges.
21. November - Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemums, affectionately known as "mums," are celebrated for their vibrant and showy flowers. Originating from China over 2,500 years ago, these flowers were cherished for their medicinal and ornamental purposes before making their mark in Japan and, later, across North America and Europe. Chrysanthemums symbolise friendship, love and joy, reflecting warmth with their bright colours, including pinks, yellows, oranges and whites. Their unique shape and perfectly aligned petals make them popular for both bouquets and standalone centrepieces, embodying happiness, well-being and romance.
22. November - Peony
Peonies, or Paeonia, are renowned for their large, lush blooms and enchanting fragrance. These flowers boast a storied history of cultivation, originating from China over 2,000 years ago, where they were cherished for their striking beauty and medicinal properties.
In Victorian times, peonies symbolise wealth and honour, often gracing gardens and homes with their abundant presence. In North America and Europe, peonies have become a staple in ornamental gardening, beloved for their wide range of colours, including shades of pink, white and red. Peonies symbolise enduring qualities of honour and romance, and their diverse colours celebrate the beauty and complexity of those born in this month.
What November’s Birth Flowers Say About You: Chrysanthemum and peony suggest that you have a strong emotional and social intelligence, an appreciation for beauty and depth in life, and a nurturing yet powerful presence. You also value deep relationships and possess an innate ability to bring happiness to those around you.
23. December - Narcissus
December's birth flower, the Narcissus, also known as Paperwhites, brings the promise of rebirth, hope and new beginnings to those born in the final month of the year. These flowers, native to the Mediterranean's Iberian Peninsula, produce small, delicate white flowers renowned for their delightful fragrance and grass-like foliage.
Narcissus symbolises vitality, faithfulness and inspiration, traits closely associated with December-born individuals. The flowers, often in shades of yellow and white, feature a distinctive trumpet-like centre, mirroring the triumph and renewal that each end of the year signifies. Preferably grown under bright, indirect light, Narcissus are ideal for container gardening, allowing their beauty to be displayed indoors during the cooler months.
24. December - Holly
With its distinctive sharp leaves and bright red berries, Holly adds a touch of vibrant colour and symbolism to the winter landscape. Often associated with Christmas wreaths and seasonal bouquets, Holly brings warmth and cheer to the cold days of December. Holly is a versatile plant growing as a deciduous or evergreen shrub or tree. Its glossy, dark green leaves and striking red berries make it a favourite for holiday decorations.
Native to Europe, North Africa and Asia, Holly has been valued for its beauty and symbolism for centuries. The ancient Romans, for instance, prized Holly for its protective qualities and used it in celebrations and decorations. Holly embodies the festive spirit and joy of the holiday season, symbolising protection, happiness and goodwill. Its presence during Victorian times and beyond has made it a lasting symbol of the season's greetings and well-wishes.
What December’s Birth Flowers Say About You: If you are born in December, narcissus and holly flowers suggest you are a beacon of hope and inspiration, cherishing the values of faithfulness and vitality. Your personality resonates with the themes of protection, happiness and the joyous spirit of celebration.
Conclusion About What Is My Birth Flower
Flowers reveal unique traits and stories that reflect personal qualities and cultural histories every birth month. These flowers symbolise various aspects of life, like love, strength and hope, connecting us to nature and our heritage.
At The Daily Blooms, we celebrate this connection with high-quality, fresh and preserved flower boxes sourced from the finest local and international suppliers, ensuring that each bloom box we deliver brings joy and beauty into your life, just as your birth flower reflects your unique qualities and story.
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Frequently Asked Questions About What Is My Birth Flower
What Determines Your Birth Flower?
Your birth flower is determined by the month you were born, following a tradition that assigns specific flowers each month. These assignments are based on historical, cultural and sometimes even botanical associations passed down through generations. The symbolism and meanings attributed to these flowers often reflect the characteristics and sentiments associated with their respective months.
How Do Birth Flowers Differ From Zodiac Flowers?
Birth flowers are assigned each month and universally recognised based on historical and cultural traditions. In contrast, zodiac flowers are linked to astrological signs and may carry different symbolic meanings based on astrological beliefs and the personality traits associated with each sign. While birth flowers are connected to the month of birth, zodiac flowers relate more directly to the characteristics of one's astrological sign, offering another layer of personal symbolism.
What Are Some Creative Gift Ideas Using Birth Month Flowers For Special Occasions?
Creative gift ideas using birth month flowers include personalised bouquets featuring the recipient's birth flower, custom-made jewellery with birth flower motifs, and home decor items like embroidered pillows or candles scented with the essence of the birth flower. Consider a beautifully illustrated book on birth flowers or a DIY kit for growing the recipient's birth flower at home for a more lasting gift. These thoughtful, personalised gifts celebrate the unique qualities and symbolism of the recipient's birth month flower, making special occasions even more memorable.
How Do I Care For My Birth Flower At Home?
Caring for your birth flower at home starts with understanding its specific needs, such as sunlight requirements, water preferences and ideal soil conditions. Research or consult with a local nursery about the best care practices for your specific birth flower, whether it's an indoor potted plant or an addition to your garden. Regular maintenance, including proper watering, feeding and pruning, will ensure your birth flower thrives, allowing you to enjoy its beauty and symbolism in your home.
