Everyone may be aware of their birthstones, zodiacs and even down to their planets placements, but what about birth flowers? We all have a flower that we can call our own, and similar to our zodiac signs, each of these flowers have symbolisms and traits that can even give an insight to who you are.
Knowing all the birth flowers and their meanings will not only be amusing, but it’ll come in very handy when choosing the perfect birthday flowers to send to your loved ones. So have a go at these birth flowers, and you might even find traits that match yours.
January: Carnation
In the cold and darkness of winter, beautiful blooms manage to thrive in the blanket of snow. Carnations are one of the very few flowers that can bloom when most flora and fauna can’t.
Carnations are popular for their big, ruffled petals that vary in colours. These flowers have a special place amongst Christian devotees, as it was believed that the very first carnations to bloom were from Mary’s tears as she cried for Jesus. The meaning of these flowers varies, but they symbolise loyalty, love and devotion as a whole.
February: Primrose
Move over red rose, the primrose will be taking centre stage during the month of love. Sometimes also called the “key flower,” this yellow perennial represents youth – and by extension, first love. Its name is a derivative of the Latin word primus, which stands for first. Since it’s one of the first flowers to bloom in the spring, its name is only apt. On top of young love, primrose also symbolises confidence and devotion.
March: Daffodil
With the emergence of spring, little buds of sunshine will bloom to offer new life and colour after a long and cold winter. With their bright and vibrant colours, there’s no question why daffodils are the best flowers to represent new beginnings and rebirth.
Loved by many, their popularity should not be understated. Even Shakespeare was a massive fan, having included the flower in his play, The Winter’s Tale. Charm your loved ones with a bouquet of these beautiful yellow blooms!
April: Daisy
Did you know that daisies are said to be one of the oldest flowers on Earth to ever be recorded? Scientists found drawings of the said flowers etched and carved on stone, and they were believed to have dated back to at least 3000BC.
This bright and cheerful flower represents loyalty, innocence and transformation. On top of being great birthday flowers, daisies are also an excellent gift for new mothers as they embody motherhood and fertility.
May: Lily of the Valley
Characterised by its bell-shaped flowers and sweet fragrance, lily of the valley is a well-known favourite. Legend has it that they first appeared at the same spot where Eve’s tears fell after getting evicted from the Garden of Eden.
Traditionally, these flowers are meant to represent joy, purity and motherhood. With that said, you may want to exercise caution, especially if you or the receiver has a young child or a pet animal. These plants hold deadly toxins that are concentrated in the roots and the red-orange berries. Make sure that the plant is not ingested lest the person or animal becomes gravely ill.
June: Rose
Rejoice, June babies can claim the most classic flower as their birth flower! Cherished even centuries prior, the Ancient Greeks and Romans associated the rose with their Goddesses of love, Aphrodite and Venus respectively.
The meaning of roses tends to vary depending on the colour of the flowers. Apart from love, these flowers also embody beauty and devotion.
July: Larkspur
With spikes of beautiful blooms that elegantly grow skyward, the larkspur is no wallflower. This classic British bloom is that one good looking showily dressed guest that hogs the limelight at every party they go to.
As the birth flower for those born in July, the larkspur represents joy and love. As beautiful as they are, do bear in mind that these blooms are highly toxic. All parts of the plant are considered harmful to both humans and animals, with the possibility of causing skin irritation and severe digestive discomfort if ingested. Similar to the lily of the valley, you’ll want to exercise caution when gifting or receiving this flower.
August: Poppy
Summer is drawing to a close and the hot days start to cool down to the crisp temperatures of autumn. There is only one type of flower that marks this change of season perfectly well, and that’s the poppy.
The whimsical poppy features petals so delicate, and yet it is able to stay strong despite its appearance. Traditionally, they tend to represent remembrance, sleep and peace. On top of their calming properties, these flowers are also used in both Remembrance Day in Western Europe and Memorial Day in the US, to show appreciation for the sacrifices veterans made during WW1.
September: Aster
As the ‘star’ of the show, Asters are beautiful and dainty blooms that possess understated elegance. It is said that the first few daisy-like wildflowers came about when the Greek Goddess, Astrea, was upset by how few stars there were in the night sky that she began to cry. These tears then fell to the ground and bloomed into star-shaped aster flowers.
The aster flower comes in a variety of colours and, by extension, meanings as well. As a whole, the flower mainly represents love and wisdom.
October: Marigold
With their bright autumnal colours that match the changing leaves, the marigold is the perfect flower to symbolise the month of October. These blooms have a long history, with the first use of the flower dating back to the Aztecs, who use it for their magical and religious procession, and medicine.
As one of autumn’s durable flower, marigolds embody determination and grit. On top of that, they also represent passion and warmth, and with their warm-toned colours, it’s easy to see why.
November: Chrysanthemum
Just as the season begins to cool, the chrysanthemum flowers start to bloom. With a variety of colours to choose from, it’s no wonder why they’re one of the most sought after cut flowers.
Chrysanthemums have a strong association with Eastern culture, as it was first cultivated in China in the 15th BC century. The flower was used in medicinal use, and legend has it, the flower possessed the power of life. The symbolisms we know of today, however, are friendship, compassion and happiness. It’s the ideal gift for a friend who needs a little pick-me-up!
December: Paperwhite Narcissus
With the busy holiday season, one shouldn’t forget those who’ll be celebrating their birthdays in December! Symbolising faithfulness, good wishes and respect, the narcissus flower is the perfect selection as December’s flower of the month.
These flowers are known for their trumpet-like centres that are beautifully surrounded by a ring of petals. Don’t be fooled by its appearance, these flowers are also highly poisonous and can be fatal if ingested. Do keep this in mind if you’re purchasing a bouquet delivery for your loved ones.
Gift your loved ones an exquisite bouquet arrangement featuring their birth flowers! If you’re not quite sure how to arrange your blooms, you can consult a reliable and experienced online florist in Singapore. We curate and design bouquets that are guaranteed to bring a smile to one’s face.