Birth flowers are kind of like floral alter egos—each one has its own personality, symbolism, and incredible story to tell. From ancient Greek legends to Victorian Era meanings, these blooms have been a part of history for ages. So, whether you’re drawn to the delicate sweetness of lily of the valley (May) or the bold confidence of chrysanthemums (November), your birth flowers hold special meaning just for you! Granbury Flowers, the best florist in Granbury, is here to spill all the tea so you can learn everything you need to know about these special birthday stems.
January: Carnation, Snowdrop
Carnations are native to the Mediterranean and favorites of the Greeks and Romans to use in grand ceremonies and celebrations. Their genus name, dianthus, translates to “flower of the gods,” hinting at their divine beauty. Snowdrops, tiny yet determined blooms, push through the winter frost as one of the first flowers of the year. A Christian tale tells of an angel who turned snowflakes into snowdrops, offering a symbol of hope to Adam and Eve.
February: Violet, Iris
Violets, with their heart-shaped petals, were symbols of love and fertility in Ancient Greece. In fact, they were even used in love potions! As the ages progressed, violets continued to be tied to love as their meaning was kept alive in Victorian art. Irises, named after the rainbow goddess Iris, were believed to connect gods and humans in both Greek and Egyptian mythology—no wonder they became a muse for Van Gogh.
March: Daffodil, Jonquil
Daffodils (from the Narcissus genus) carry a mix of meanings, from self-obsession to prosperity and even romance. Greek mythology tells us they mark the spot where Narcissus, the son of Cephissus (a river god), fell deeply entranced with his own reflection and drowned. According to Welsh folklore, spotting the first daffodil in spring suggests good fortune will follow! Jonquils, a type of Narcissus, are more about romance than self-love.
April: Daisy, Sweet Pea
Daisies have long been symbols of love, linked to Freyja, the Norse goddess of romance and fertility. Their history is so ancient that they may be one of the world’s oldest flowers, appearing in stone carvings from prehistoric times. Sweet peas, introduced to Europe in the 17th century, were prized for their beauty and delicate fragrance. In France, they were given to brides as a gesture of good luck and a happy marriage.
May: Lily of the Valley, Hawthorn
Lily of the Valley, according to Greek mythology, was planted by Apollo to act as a carpet for nymphs to walk on. Christian stories claim they bloomed from Mary’s tears as she wept for her son as he died on the cross or Eve’s tears as she left the Garden of Eden. Hawthorn was a Beltane favorite in Celtic tradition, often used as decoration. Many believed it had ties to the fairy realm, making it a sacred and magical flower that offered protection.
June: Rose, Honeysuckle
The rose’s reputation as the ultimate symbol of love goes back centuries—Cleopatra even used them to seduce Mark Antony. Honeysuckle, whose name means “honey suck,” carries a different kind of magic. Druids linked it to joy, and European folklore believed it could attract luck and protect against bad energy, making it a flower of both sweetness and strength.
July: Larkspur, Water Lily
Delphiniums are beautiful blooms that look like the nose of a dolphin—their name even comes from the Greek word for dolphin. Some legends say they grew from the blue blood of a slayed dragon or appeared on the battlefield of Troy. Water lilies have their own celestial ties linked to the Egyptian sun god Ra and the mythical water nymphs of Greece. Also known as a lotus, they are one of the most sacred flowers in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, symbolizing spiritual enlightenment.
August: Gladiolus, Poppy
Gladiolus (nicknamed sword lilies) weren’t just named after swords—they were actually worn by gladiators in Ancient Rome. After a successful battle, they were thrown towards the victorious warriors like trophies. Poppies have a history rooted in mythology, representing sleep and rebirth in Greek, Egyptian, and Mesopotamian traditions. Today, they are powerful symbols of remembrance, honoring those who gave their lives in battle.
September: Aster, Morning Glory
Asters, named after the Greek word for star, bring celestial charm to September. Morning glories, though, carry a more emotional meaning—Japanese legend says they sprouted from the resting place of Izanami, goddess of creation and death, representing her beauty and love that endures forever. Their delicate blooms remind us that even the most fleeting moments can hold deep significance.
October: Marigold, Cosmo
Marigolds are the life of the party—whether they’re guiding spirits during Dia De Los Muertos or adding color to Indian weddings and Diwali festivities. Their presence symbolizes joy, remembrance, and connection. Cosmos, on the other hand, bring a sense of structure and calm, named after the Greek word kosmos for their orderly, balanced petals. Their perfect symmetry is a reminder that harmony exists all around us.
November: Chrysanthemums, Peony
Chrysanthemums (autumn royalty), are named after the Greek words for golden flower, making them the true stars of fall. Peonies, however, come with a history of transformation. One legend tells of a nymph named Paeonia who became a peony flower thanks to Aphrodite’s jealousy and rage. Another myth claims Zeus turned Paeon, a healer, into a peony to save him from the jealous wrath of his mentor, Asclepius.
December: Holly, Narcissus
Holly, a sacred symbol in Celtic mythology, was once used in Druidic rituals to bring protection and prosperity. It later became a cherished part of Christmas traditions, symbolizing life’s endurance through the coldest months. Narcissus flowers, on the other hand, have a more dramatic origin—as they bloomed where the beautiful but self-absorbed Narcissus wasted away beside his reflection (remember?). His story reminds us that self-love is important, balance is key, and new beginnings are always ahead.
Flowers are more than just a pretty gift—they carry stories, traditions, and deep symbolism. For the perfect birthday bouquet filled with meaning and heart, look no further than Granbury Flowers.
