So, carrying on from the last blog, we thought we’d pick up the topic of birth flowers. And give you a rundown of all the flowers associated with the birthdays of those born between July and December.
Birth Flowers by Month
July
The official flower of July babies is the larkspur. With tall spikes smothered in the most beautiful flowers of blue, purple, white, or pink (most commonly, although red species are available), and elegant, feathery foliage, larkspur is one of the prettiest of summer blooms. The only drawback is that they’re not that readily available in florists. So, most people opt for their close relative, the delphinium. Both flowers are believed to represent openness and transformation.
August
For August, the gladiolus takes centre stage. With their sword-like leaves and shafts of gloriously coloured flowers – you can make a whole rainbow with gladioli blooms – the gladiolus has long been one of the stars of the summer border. Thought to signify strength and integrity, these flowers look great alone as a single species display, or adding architectural form to a blended floral arrangement.
September
The last hoorah of the summer border, the aster is a perfectly fitting flower for the month of September. Associated with wisdom and faith, and thought to represent love, there are more than 180 species of aster in a broad array of colours (although the most common are purple and pink). Members of the daisy family, asters exude happiness, and are sure to put a smile on any birthday boy or girl’s face.
October
The marigold is the birth flower of October. Vibrant in glowing shades of orange, whether you select the English marigold (calendula) with their large, open heads, or the more compact Spanish variety, you can often still find marigolds happily growing in the October garden… Which is probably partly why they are said to represent a stubborn determination to succeed! Sadly, you’ll be hard pressed to find either form in a florists. So, if you know an October baby, maybe plan ahead and plant your own sunshine crop.
November
As we move into winter, there are fewer flowers to choose from. And that’s when the chrysanthemum comes into its own! Hardy ‘mums bloom throughout October and November, making them an invaluable addition to the autumn and winter garden. And a beautiful birth flower for those born in November. Chrysanthemums are ancient flowers – believed to have been first cultivated in 15th century BC China. Associated with good luck and friendship, they’re the perfect birthday choice.
December
And of course, what plant could possibly be chosen for December birthdays other than holly? Better known for its striking green leaves and bright red berries than its delicate white flowers (which form in May), holly symbolises good cheer, fertility, and fortune. And while, alone, holly doesn’t make the best of birthday bouquets, it can be integrated within a broader floral arrangement to striking effect. Just ask your florist about seasonal arrangements closer to the time.
So, there you go! That completes our twelve months of birthday blooms. Hopefully, it will inspire you to put a little extra thought in next time the birthday of someone you love rolls around!
And if you need help finding the perfect birthday bouquet, don’t forget to get in touch with Blue Florist!