Tara Carlson, Author at 1800Flowers Petal Talk

August Birth Flowers: All About the Gladiolus and Poppy

Just as every month has a birthstone, it also has a flower (and sometimes two!) associated with it. And, like birthstones, each month’s birth flower holds a special significance, representing the unique qualities and characteristics of individuals born in a particular month. For those born in the last full month of summer, then, it comes as no surprise that the August birth flowers are two incredibly vibrant and captivating specimens: the gladiolus and poppy.

Gladiolus

Gladiolus, sometimes referred to as the “sword lily,” is an incredibly popular outdoor plant. Reaching heights of 4 to 5 feet, gladioli command attention with their tall, majestic spikes adorned with vibrant blooms. For this reason, they are commonly placed in the back of flower beds to add height and texture. Their blooms range in height, thickness, and color, making them incredibly diverse.

What is the history of the gladiolus?

The gladiolus boasts a rich historical background dating back to ancient Roman times. Native to South Africa, gladioli didn’t make their way to Europe and the United States until the mid-1700s. By the early 1800s, Europeans began hybridizing them, first in England and then in other countries across the continent. The flower exploded in popularity in America during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, there are roughly 260 species and dozens of colors of gladioli.

What does the gladiolus mean?

The name “gladiolus” is derived from the Latin word “gladius,” meaning sword, referring to the plant’s sword-shaped leaves and association with gladiators. Therefore, since ancient times, this flower has been mainly associated with the qualities of strength, honor, resilience, and moral integrity.

They do have a softer side, though: Gladioli are also viewed as a symbol of remembrance, making a fitting tribute to honor the memory of loved ones.

Additionally, gladiolus is associated with infatuation and love at first sight. It represents a powerful and passionate affection, making it an excellent choice for expressing intense emotions.

august birth flower with Gladiola with golden rod

How to care for gladiolus

Gladiolus grow from corms (underground stems) that are planted in the spring. The bigger the corms you plant, the larger the flowers will be.

Watering: Require regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged

Sun exposure: Full sun

Soil needs: Well-drained, fertile soil enriched with organic matter

Stem support: Due to their height, gladioli often require staking to prevent them from toppling over in strong winds. Utilize bamboo stakes or other supports to provide stability.

USDA hardiness zones: 8-10

Bloom time: Early summer to late fall

Poppy

Poppies are a short-lived perennial that range in size from a few inches to nearly 4 feet tall. These delicate yet striking red flowers may be tiny, but they have captivated the hearts and minds of cultures throughout history, making their way into poems, movies, novels, and mythology.

What is the history of the poppy?

In ancient times, the Sumerians believed the poppy to be the “flower of joy.” After the flower made its way to the Greeks, it quickly became a popular religious symbol, with wreaths of poppies adorning statues of gods. Today, poppies have come to signify those lost to war, specifically World War I. The poppy is also the emblem of Remembrance Day — a day honoring those who lost their lives in the armed forces.

What does the poppy mean?

In 1915 a field of poppies inspired Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae to write his now famous poem “In Flanders Fields.” After World War I, the poppy became a universal symbol of remembrance and sacrifice.

Poppies are also known for their vibrant colors, including white, yellow, gold, orange, red, blue, and purple, and so are viewed as symbols of beauty, grace, and extravagance. They also are seen as a representation of admiration and appreciation for someone’s unique charm and allure.

In Greek and Roman mythology, the poppy had ties to the underworld and represented consolation and resurrection. Today, the flower signifies the ability to overcome challenges and emerge stronger on the other side.

august birth flower with closeup of red poppy in a field

How to care for poppy

Poppies are low-maintenance flowers that can thrive in unwelcoming conditions and with a minimal amount of care.

Watering: Water sparingly

Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade

Soil needs: Well-drained, fertile soil

USDA hardiness zones: 2-9, depending on variety

Bloom time: Late spring to early summer

9 Ways to Thank Your Parents on National Parents’ Day

parents' day with Family together in nature

Parents are there with us through it all, from the time we take our first steps to the day we move into our college dorm to the moment we said “I do.”

It goes without saying that our parents play a vital role in our development, and our lives as a whole. From the moment we are born, our parents serve as caretakers, protectors, teachers, providers, and role models. They are true jacks of all trades, and the list of reasons why we should honor them is endless.

So, show your folks the appreciation they deserve this National Parents’ Day with a kind and thoughtful gesture that says, simply, “Thank you.”

What is National Parents’ Day?

While Mother’s Day and Father’s Day are typically when children express gratitude to their moms and dads, respectively, National Parents’ Day is a lesser known but equally important holiday.

In 1994, President Bill Clinton declared the fourth Sunday of July to be Parents’ Day, a day for “recognizing, uplifting, and supporting the role of parents in the rearing of children.” (This day is not to be confused with the Global Day of Parents, which is observed every year on June 1, the United Nations having declared it so in 2012.) This year, National Parents’ Day is Sunday, July 23.

The timing of National Parents’ Day is symbolic: After celebrating each parent individually in May and June, we bring our parents together and show them how much we care about them at the same time in July.

How to celebrate Nationals Parents’ Day

We all know why we should celebrate our parents — it’s the how that takes a bit more consideration.

Here are nine meaningful and thoughtful ways to thank mom and dad for all they have done for you.

1. Say “thank you”

A hug and heartfelt thank you can make a world of difference to your parents.

parents' day with Family With Senior Parents And Adult Offspring Walking And Talking In Garden Together

2. Take them out to dinner

Repay them for all the times they took you out to eat when you were younger by treating them to dinner. Make sure it’s at one of their favorite restaurants, and don’t forget to book a table ahead of time!

3. Get them flowers

Brighten up their day by sending fresh flowers to your parents. If National Parents’ Day sneaks up on you, order the blooms with same-day delivery.

4. Give them something personal

Gift your parents something special with their names inscribed on it, such as a welcome sign or family blanket.

5. Spoil them with something sweet

Surprise them with some chocolates or chocolate covered strawberries (or both!) to thank them for being such sweet parents.

6. Send them a card

Along with your gift, include a greeting card (or ecard) with a meaningful message to show your parents how much they mean to you. If you’re not sure what to write in it, use our posts about message ideas for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day as inspiration.

7. Recreate a treasured family moment

Relive the “good old days” by visiting a place you used to go to or doing an activity you used to do as a family.

parents' day with Mother and father enjoying a walk through the woods with daughteR

8. Start a new tradition entirely

Or do something completely new and exciting with your parents! Cooking a meal together, going on a nature walk, or volunteering at a charity that is meaningful to you all are just three possibilities.

9. Spend time with them

Spending time with your parents, or visiting someone that acted as a parent figure to you, is the perfect way to show your affection and appreciation. Consider going out for or making a homemade brunch. If brunch isn’t your (or their) thing, create family memories together by hosting a family game night or watching a movie together.

National Parents’ Day gift ideas

A present for your parents doesn’t haven’t to be something extravagant — it just has to come from the heart. Here are three thoughtful gift ideas for National Parents’ Day.

parents day Warm Sunset Bouquet — Warm Sunset Bouquet

parents day Classic Ghirardelli Gift Basket — Classic Ghirardelli Gift Basket

parents day Double Photo Glass Frame — Personalized Double Photo Glass Frame

9 Places to Bring Rosé This Summer

Once temperatures start climbing into the 80s, you know it’s time for two things: backyard barbecues and rosé wine. Sure, its pink coloring may have helped it get on millennials’ good side at first, but rosé is beloved by people from all generations. Whether it’s paired with a beautiful charcuterie board or sweet chocolate-covered berries (heck, even cookies!), rosé is easy to sip during any occasion.

With warm weather finally here, we’ve rounded up the best places to bring rosé all summer long.

1. Barbecues

Man cooking meat and vegetables on barbecue grill outdoors

Don’t let its looks fool you — rosé pairs well with even the most heavily seasoned, hearty cuts of meat. Whether you’re serving steak, chicken, or burgers and dogs, make sure you’ve got a few bottles of rosé in the cooler to pair with the meal at your backyard party.

2. Parks

Forget the beer, even if it is one of those microbrews made with 1,000-year-old yeast and ghost peppers — this summer it’s all about rosé! Whether you’re heading to the park to throw a Frisbee around with friends (frolf, anyone?) or enjoy a good book under a shady tree, make sure you always have something cold and refreshing within reach. Remember to also bring the sunscreen.

3. BYOB restaurants

A fantastic way to enjoy your favorite bottle of wine, while saving money eating out, is to bring your own. Grab your fave rosé from home and tote it to the restaurant with you or ask the shopkeeper to recommend one based on where you’re dining. Or just order this bottle. It only won the silver medal at the 2022 Oregon Wine Awards.

4. Picnics

Photo of happy young three women drinking red wine while having

Picnics have evolved from your classic checkerboard blankets and cold sandwiches. Nowadays, planning a picnic is an art form, but it doesn’t have to be an overly complex one. Elevate lunch with your schmoopy by packing a lightweight rosé, fruits and cheeses, and chocolates for dessert in a traditional wicker basket.

5. Graduation parties

After four years of group projects, papers, and tests, it’s finally time to call yourself (or the person you love) a college graduate. Whether you’re hosting or attending a graduation party this summer, don’t forget to add rosé to the beverage list. Also on your list of necessities? Flowers for the happy grad and plenty of ice cream to keep guests cool.

MORE: Wine and Flower Pairings

6. Brunch

Ending the weekend with brunch is the best way to take advantage of every minute of the warm weather. With summer fruits soon reaching their peak ripeness, there’s no better drink to pair with citrusy fruit and summer sun than rosé.

7. On the boat

friend’s girl having party on sailing boat and drinking wine t

If you own a boat, or are lucky enough to be friends with someone who does, let us be the first to say that you’re going to have an amazing summer. Now the only thing left to do (in addition to inviting us) is stock your floating fridge to the brim with rosé and a few of your favorite snacks to pair with it.

8. Summer night in

Don’t get us wrong, we love summer nights out. But sometimes a jam-packed restaurant without (or with too much) air conditioning doesn’t make for the most relaxing experience. Kick back with your best friends in the cool comfort of your home, on your terrace, or even by setting up a few chairs in your driveway. If you don’t have the privilege of AC, position a few fans around the house to add a cool breeze throughout the evening. Best of all, refills in your living room are always free!

9. All the parties

Come to think of it, there are very few places to bring rosé that won’t go over well. From bachelorette parties to baby showers and engagement parties, rosé is a perennial crowd pleaser.

10 Spectacular Last-Minute Father’s Day Gift Ideas

Dads always seems to get the proverbial shaft when it comes to being celebrated on the third Sunday in June. You know it’s true: Even now, just days before Father’s Day (June 18), you’re still thinking of ideas for a gift. It’s not like he didn’t go to your soccer games — or drive an hour each way to watch you play — or read to you in bed, or wash your car. If you ask us, it’s time to give dads their due.

And despite the holiday getting closer with each passing hour, you still have time to pick a thoughtful option from our glorious list of our favorite last-minute Father’s Day gift ideas. From delicious dinners and desserts you can make at home to gift baskets you can ship to Dad to anywhere in the United States, these recommendations will show your “old man” just how much you love and appreciate everything he’s done for you.

Last-minute Father's Day gift ideas with a box of fruit, cheese, snacks, and other ingredients.

Father’s Day Gift Box

From sweet galettes to savory snacks, this Father’s Day gift box comes with a sampling of all of Dad’s favorites. Summer sausage and cheddar cheese are the makings of a delicious afternoon charcuterie board, and Moose Munch popcorn is perfect for hosting a summer movie night at home.

last minute fathers day gifts with plant of the month club

Join the club

If you’re looking for a gift that keeps on giving, sign Dad up for one of the many monthly subscriptions we offer. The options include everything from seafood and snacks to wine and gourmet meals, and a whole bunch more. There’s even a Plant of the Month Club that will allow him to show off his green thumb all year long. Warning: This may also cause his nurturing side to come out (you know he’s got one).

Strawberries for Him

Some guys just want to sit back and enjoy the sweeter things in life. If this sounds like your dad, then this gift is for him. He’ll love the luscious taste of plump, juicy strawberries dipped in rich white and milk chocolate and drizzled with still more chocolaty goodness. And with the option to order as many as two dozen of these beautiful berries, you can be sure he won’t run out of these treats any time soon.

last minute fathers day gift ideas burgers

Blue cheese burgers

Dads are typically typecast as grillmen. You can still give a gift for the grillmaster, but at least give him the night off from doing the work by putting on an apron and firing up some Wagyu beef blue cheese burgers. Wagyu beef patties have such exceptional marbling and flavor that all they need is a sprinkle of salt and pepper on each side. The finishing touch is a smoky blue cheese sauce that can double as a dip for a side of fries, chips, or fresh vegetables. The sauce is so good, it can triple as a drink. No judgement.

last minute fathers day gift ideas jerky bouquet

Jerky collection

Growing up, you always questioned why Dad did certain things certain ways. He certainly parented to the beat of his own drum, but he knew what he was doing. Harry & David also knows what it’s doing when it comes to premium dried meats. Whether it’s bacon jerky, sausage sticks, or Landjaeger — even a jerky flower bouquet (seriously!) — Dad will be in jerky heaven.

last minute fathers day gift ideas fishing

Weekend getaway

If Dad’s an adventurer, pack up the car and take him on a day trip or weekend getaway. From racing along sand dunes in an ATV to exploring gold rush history, a micro-vacation is a lovely way to show your appreciation while treating the entire family to something fun.

DIY gift bags

Nothing but nothing shows Dad how much you love him more than a gift you made yourself. These DIY Father’s Day gift bags may look like formalwear, but they’re actually a fun and whimsical way to let the big guy know how much he means to you. Better still, you can fill them with any number of snacks you get him too. And since you’re making them right at home, there’s no chance of experiencing any shipping snafus.

Cherry turnovers

Does Dad prefer sweet treats over savory bites? These cherry turnovers are a delicious two-for-one homemade gift that can be enjoyed for breakfast and dessert. You could even swap in his favorite fruit if apples or pears are more his speed.

Bloody Mary kit

You and Dad are a great pairing, like brunch and Sundays. And what goes better with brunch than a bloody mary? This kit is more than just your standard tomato juice and celery. It has all the accoutrements to make one of the best bloodies ever. If you don’t believe us, just ask brand ambassador Geoffrey Zakarian.

last minute fathers day gift ideas time to himself

Time to himself (or with you)

Dad spends all year tending to others’ needs and rarely thinking of himself. Give him the gift of time, with a day that is all his. Whether he chooses to spend it tinkering with the car, reading a book, or just vegging out in front of the TV, make this Father’s Day one without a schedule or an agenda. And maybe he’ll surprise you by saying he wants to do something as a family. The best gifts, after all, are ones that can be enjoyed with the ones you love.

Mother’s Day Fun Facts for 2024

Whether they’re buying jewelry and flowers or spa treatments and candlelit dinners, Americans aren’t afraid to go (and spend) above and beyond on Mother’s Day. After the winter holidays, Mother’s Day has the highest spending total — even higher than Valentine’s Day! But this year, Americans are taking Mother’s Day shopping and pampering to new heights.

In 2024, Mother’s Day spending is expected to reach near-record heights. So, let’s take a look at some Mother’s Day fun facts about how consumers will be spoiling their moms this year.

Mother’s Day spending will approach last year’s record high

This year, consumers are projected to spend the second most ever on Mother’s Day gifts and festivities. According to the National Retail Federation‘s annual survey, Americans are expected to spend a total of $33.5 billion, just shy of last year’s record total of $35.7 billion.

The NRF estimates that Americans will spend an average of $254.04 on their moms this year, almost $20 less than in 2023.

Dividing $33.5 billion

It’s clear that, when it comes to Mom, the sky’s the limit. Now that we know how much people will be spending, let’s see what they’re actually spending it on. Below are the most popular Mother’s Day gifts, according to the National Retail Federation.

Flowers

mothers day card message ideas card plate

Tied for the most popular Mother’s Day gift this year are, what else, flowers!

This Mother’s Day, 74% of people will give their mom flowers.
That means that $3.2 billion will be spent on the sweet-smelling plants.
No surprise here: Mother’s Day is one of the largest flower holidays for 1-800-Flowers.com. More than 20 million stems are expected to sell this year.

Greeting cards

Putting just how much you love your mom into words can sometimes be tricky, so, thankfully, there are plenty (and we mean plenty) of Mother’s Day cards ready and willing to do the job! And though we know mom will love anything you give her, sometimes a simple, homemade Mother’s Day card is better than the fanciest card around.

This year, 74% of people who celebrate Mother’s Day will get their mom a card. During this holiday alone, Americans will spend about $1.1 billion on greeting cards.

Special outings

After you’ve woken up mom with flowers, a card, and breakfast in bed, it’s time to celebrate her!

59% of people said they plan on taking their mom on a special outing.
No surprise here: Most people said they’ll be treating mom to brunch!

Jewelry

Are diamonds (and other jewelry) mom’s best friend? The NRF estimates consumers plan to spend $7 billion on jewelry this year, down slightly from the $7.8 billion they were expected to spend in 2023. It’s a timeless gift that never goes out of style.

Mother’s Day by the numbers

Here’s a fun collection of facts on Mother’s Day gifting from 1-800-Flowers.com.

How many stems does 1-800-Flowers.com expect to sell for Mother’s Day 2024?

More than 20 million.

How many plants?

About 176,000

How many roses?

More than 9 million, or 45% of total flowers sold.

How many tulips?

About 4 million, or 20% of total flowers sold.

How many lilies?

About 3 million, or 15% of total flowers sold.

What are the most popular colors of flowers purchased for Mother’s Day?

The most popular floral colors for Mother’s Day are pink, purple, and mixed bouquets (hot pink, orange, and yellow).

What are the most popular plants purchased for Mother’s Day?

The most popular Mother’s Day plants are gardenias, roses, azaleas, hydrangeas, and orchids.

More Mother’s Day fun facts

In Greek mythology, spring festivals were held to honor the maternal goddess Rhea.
One quarter of all the flowers bought in a year are purchased during Mother’s Day.
Carnations are the official Mother’s Day flower.
Speaking of the official flower, Anna Jarvis was the woman who popularized them after her own mother passed.
Pink and red carnations are commonly given to mothers who are still alive, while white carnations are for those who have passed away.
In 1908, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation declaring the start of a national Mother’s Day.
Though Mother’s Day was created in the early 1900s, many small towns already had a day dedicated to honoring mothers well before then.
If you’re not sure what kind of flowers to get mom, we may be able to help! The most searched-for flowers the week leading up to Mother’s Day are roses, peonies, hydrangeas, and sunflowers.

9 Facts About Carnations

Looking for something delicate, durable, and delightful to decorate your home with this season? Don’t overlook carnations, one of the oldest and most historically rich flowers in the world.

If you’re in the market for flowers, here are nine carnation facts that will give you many reasons to choose this classic bloom.

carnation facts with variety of carnations

1. They have a fun history

A flower is never just a flower — it’s a symbol of love, happiness, and togetherness. Originating in the Mediterranean region, carnations have been exchanged between lovers for centuries. In the Victorian era, carnations were used by women to respond to a secret admirer. A solid color meant “Yes,” a striped flower meant “Unfortunately, no,” and a yellow carnation meant “No.”

2. They come in many varieties

If that special someone in your life has a favorite color, you can be almost certain that you’ll find a carnation to match it. Carnations come in everything from pink to yellow, and even purple in some cases.

If you’re not sure which color to get, educate yourself on the meaning of each one.

Red: Admiration
Deep red: Romantic love
Pink: Gratitude
White: Purity and friendship
Yellow: Sorrow
Purple: Royalty

3. They smell sweet

Looking to fill your house with warm scents but don’t want to resort to artificial perfumes? Then carnations are the flower for you. Despite their small frame and delicate appearance, carnations bear a heavy scent.

4. They last a long time

Unlike other cluster flowers that are top heavy and wilt within a few days, carnations will stand tall for weeks. In fact, carnations are one of the sturdiest flowers on the market today.

5. They’re affordable

The only thing better than flowers is affordable flowers. Carnations don’t cost as much as roses and tulips, and that’s all the more reason to love them.

6. They’re in style

Years ago, dark colors and sharp edges dominated the fashion industry. But judging from the spring runways in France, we’re happy to announce that feminine ruffles are officially back in!

7. They’re a great accent flower

While carnations can certainly stand on their own, they also make a great accent piece for bridal bouquets. That’s because their large petals beautifully fill space between other, more extravagant flowers.

8. They literally mean “godly”

The scientific name for carnations is “Dianthus, which comes from the Greek words “dios” and “athanos.” When translated, it’s name literally means “flowers of the God.”

9. They held a world record

In 2007, the largest floral awareness ribbon was made on behalf of the Dubai Healthcare City. The ribbon, which was created to help raise money for breast cancer research, was made using more than 105,000 pink carnations and was 94 feet long. (The record was broken in 2022.)

Most Popular Anniversary Dates & Ideas

anniversary date ideas with wedding rings presented in a bouquet of white roses

Remember your first wedding anniversary? Odds are, you celebrated it with flowers, champagne, a nice dinner, and countless other romantic gestures. But as the years have passed and your family has grown, your anniversary has taken on less significance, and is no longer treated like the special day it is. But that shouldn’t be the case. It’s time to put the spark back in your anniversary.

Whether it’s your fifth anniversary or your 50th, every year that you and your significant other spend together is worth celebrating. To help you find that aforementioned spark, here is a list of unusual (and actually fun!) anniversary date ideas that won’t leave you and your partner sitting through dinner and a movie for the sixth year in a row.

10 popular anniversary date ideas

1. Go back to where you first met

Did you meet at a restaurant? How about a museum or coffee shop? Take a stroll down memory lane by heading back to the place where it all began.

2. Spend the night at a quiet B&B

There’s something about getting away for a night that makes it easy for couples to reconnect.

3. Visit an amusement park

If your anniversary is in the spring or summer, have some fun together at a theme park.

4. Volunteer together

Looking to spread the love on your anniversary? Volunteer at a local homeless shelter or help clean up a park by your house.

5. Tour a beer garden

Because nothing beats drinking outside and enjoying tasty foods on a warm summer day.

anniversary date ideas with Couple on a date with coffee mugs

6. Laugh it up at a comedy club

Is your go-to movie night movie “Airplane,” “Anchorman,” or “Superbad”? If you’re both fans of comedy, head to a comedy club. Few things bring people closer together than sharing laughter.

7. Go go-karting

Get your adrenaline pumping by spending a day out on the track. It’s a safe and fun way to relive your childhood dream of being a racecar driver.

8. Go on a double date

Do you know a couple who was married around the same time as you? Go out on a double date and swap stories about the day you were married.

9. Get professional photos taken

Are your wedding photos the only professional pictures you have of the two of you? If so, then now is the time to get some updated shots taken. Make them even more personal by incorporating that year’s anniversary flower into some of your shots.

10. One word: brunch

Brunch is a common Sunday fun-day activity, so make this one special by going somewhere really formal or unique.

Now, a different kind of “date”

Are you still planning your wedding? Take a look at the most popular wedding dates for 2024. If you’re already married, see if your anniversary falls near one of these five most popular wedding dates.

Saturday, September 21
Saturday, September 14
Saturday, June 22
Saturday, May 18
Saturday, October 12

Your Guide to Types of Easter Flowers

When the snow starts to melt and the tops of budding flowers can be seen popping out of the dirt, it can only mean one thing — Easter is just around the corner! And that means it’s time to say goodbye to the dark colors and hard edges of winter and hello to the beautiful soft pastels of spring.

If you’re hosting this year’s Easter festivities, then you’ll want to be sure to incorporate warm spring colors into your decor — and there’s no better way to do that than with fresh flowers. That’s why we’ve put together this Easter flowers guide, to help you with all your Easter flower and decoration needs!

Top 5 Easter flowers

When it comes to Easter flowers and plants, you have a lot to pick from. To make your choice a little easier, we’ve rounded up five of our favorites that will bring cheer and warmth to your home, and get your guests in a festive mood.

1. Tulip

Types of Easter flowers with tulips in a field.

Of course, tulips had to be number one on our list. As the flower most associated with spring, tulips fully embody the spirit, colors, and joy of Easter Sunday. Because a tulip’s pastel colors symbolize everything from love and happiness to congratulations, you can never go wrong with a multi-colored bloom of tulips on your dinner table.

2. Easter lily

Types of Easter flowers with an Easter lily in a garden.

As a symbol of hope and new life, Easter lilies perfectly express the sentiments of spring and Easter. And although the words “Easter lily” were never explicitly written in the Bible — the name wasn’t attributed to the flower until the early 1800s — many believe the large, white lilies described in the good book as growing rapidly in Palestine were, in fact, Easter lilies. And because they’re easy to care for, you can enjoy Easter lilies long after the holiday has passed.

3. Daffodil

Types of Easter flowers with daffodils in a field.

Their pattern of blooming during the first few days of Lent isn’t the only association daffodils have with the Easter holiday and Christianity. Legend has it that the world’s first daffodil appeared in the garden of Gethsemane as a way of comforting Jesus just before he was to be crucified.

4. Easter cactus

Types of Easter flowers with an Easter cactus in a pot.

Known for its show-stopping, bright red blooms and thick green leaves, Easter cacti are a refreshing change from traditional flowers and perfectly embody both the ending winter and coming spring.

Although they look remarkably similar to a another kind of holiday cactus, Easter cacti differ from their Christmas cousins in one significant way: the time of year when their flowers bloom. As their names suggest, Easter cacti bloom at the beginning of spring, whereas Christmas cacti bloom in early winter. Also, Easter cacti last an average of three times longer than their jolly Christmas counterparts.

5. Daisy

Types of Easter flowers with a closeup of a daisy in a field.

Legend has it that as the Virgin Mary cried for Jesus at his crucifixion, daisies began to sprout from where her tears had fallen. Other stories say that the three wise men knew how to find baby Jesus because the daisies growing around his stable resembled the North Star. That is likely why, in the 15th century, daisies became the symbol for newborn Jesus.

11 Types of Early Spring Flowers

After enduring months of the cold, dark winter, nothing brings a bigger smile to our faces like the sight of blooming flowers. Whether walking to work or relaxing in the living room, we love seeing budding blooms this time of year — they are the universal symbol that spring has finally sprung!

Here are 11 types of flowers that are commonly seen emerging through the ground or standing upright in vases in the early springtime.

Early spring flowers in the wild

While some wildflowers like to wait until the warmer months to bud, others are so eager to see the sun that they open at the first sign of spring weather (and sometimes even before that!).

Daffodils

Perhaps the earliest flower to bloom, daffodils can sometimes be seen popping up through thin layers of late-season snow. Unlike their cultivated brothers and sisters, wild daffodils tend to be much smaller and more delicate than the ones you’d find in a flower shop.

Snowdrop

Named for its shape and ability to bloom as early as December, snowdrops are a welcome sight for those who are not big fans of the winter months.

Early purple orchid

Perhaps the most appropriately named flower, the early purple orchid is the first in its family to bloom. It can be seen (and smelled) as early as April in meadows and alongside country roads.

Primrose

Primrose flowers are a beautiful sight, especially when nestled together. And, unlike other early blooming flowers that wither a month or so after they bloom, primrose can stay open until June.

Early spring flowers for your garden

If you want to look out your window on the first day of spring and see a garden full of flowers, consider these early-blooming perennials and annuals.

Pigsqueak

Don’t let the name throw you — these enchanting pink flowers add beauty to any garden they grace. Best of all, they last long into fall, when they turn a splendid, deep red.

Shasta daisies

The timeless beauty and hardy flowers of daisies make them a favorite among young gardeners. Not only do they bloom from late winter to fall, but they are quick to multiply and can easily cover large plots of land in delicate white petals.

Virginia bluebells

It may be hard to believe, but these exotic-looking, trumpet-shaped flowers do not require any special skills to grow and cultivate. Starting out small and pink, these perennials quite literally grow into their name during early spring, when their petals fold together and form a blue bell.

Pansy

Popular plants for window boxes, pansies are favored by gardeners because their colorful blooms open even in cooler weather.

Early spring flowers for your home

Even if you don’t have time to visit sprawling meadows or start your own garden, everyone deserves to experience the joy of budding spring flowers. Bring a piece of the great outdoors inside this season with these cut flowers.

Tulips

For many, it doesn’t feel like spring is truly here until they’ve seen a strong-standing tulip dancing in the wind — or a bouquet of these colorful blooms prominently displayed on a counter or table.

Sunflowers

Perhaps the only other flower that can challenge tulips for the title of “Most Anticipated Spring Flower” is the sunflower. Its large bloom and cheerful demeanor bring the joy of the outside world straight into your living room.

Mixed bouquets

Featuring different types of flowers in an array of bright hues, a mixed bouquet is the perfect way to enjoy the exquisite splendor of nature right in your home.