Category: Flower Facts

As February unfolds, nature graces us with the delicate and charming presence of two birth flowers. These enchanting blooms captivate us with not only their visual appeal but with the stories they tell and the meaning they carry.

Whether exchanged as tokens of love or adorning our living spaces, these blossoms remind us of the beauty and resilience found in the natural world. Come with us as we learn more about these charming flowers that embody the magic of February and bring joy and positivity into our lives.

What are the February birth flowers?

The February birth flowers are the violet and primrose.

Violets (Viola) are known for their delicate appearance and sweet fragrance. They have five-petaled flowers that come in a variety of colors, including purple, blue, violet, white, and yellow; some are even multi-colored. Their leaves are often heart-shaped or rounded with scalloped edges. The growth habit, size, and habitat of violets vary widely depending on the species and variety; they do, however, tend to thrive in cool, shaded environments.

Primroses (Primula) are perennial plants that are one of the first flowers to bloom in late winter or early spring. Their flowers have a distinctive saucer-like shape with five-petaled blossoms, and they feature in a wide range of colors, including pink, purple, red, yellow, white, and even bi-color varieties. The leaves of primroses often form a rosette at the base of the plant, and some varieties emit a mild, sweet fragrance. Primroses thrive in cool, temperate climates and are well-suited for shaded or partially shaded areas.

What is the history of violets?

The use of violets dates back to ancient Greece, where the flower was associated with love and fertility. Legend has it that the Ionian philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras cultivated violets for their calming properties. In Rome, violets were used in perfumes and as a symbol of love and affection.

In the Middle Ages, violets were cultivated in monastic gardens for their purported healing properties and were often used in herbal remedies. During the Renaissance, violets became a favorite motif in art and literature, symbolizing love, faithfulness, and modesty.

Today, in addition to being cultivated for their ornamental value, violets are used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Violet petals show up in recipes for salads, desserts, and beverages, and the flowers have been shown to hold therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory and expectorant effects.

What does the violet mean?

The meaning and symbolism of violets have changed over the years. In the Middle Ages, violets represented chastity, modesty, and faithfulness. During the Victorian era, men gave violets to the women they admired, with purple violets meaning “I’ll always be true to you” and cream-colored violets conveying the message “Let’s take a chance on love together.”

As violets are among the first flowers to bloom in spring, they are also seen as symbols of renewal and the arrival of warmer, brighter days. Violets are often considered symbols of femininity, and are associated with goddesses and female deities in certain cultures.

Today, violets symbolize things like young love, innocence, and joy, making them a popular choice for expressing romantic feelings.

How to care for violets

Violets adapt to nearly any environment, having been seen growing in both dry deserts and wet rainforests.

• Sunlight: Violets thrive in locations with filtered sunlight or dappled shade; therefore, plant them in partial to full shade. Avoid exposing your violets to intense, direct sunlight.
• Soil: Use well-draining, slightly acidic soil. A mix containing peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is suitable.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
• Temperature: Violets prefer cool to moderate temperatures. Indoor violets generally thrive in temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees. Outdoor violets can tolerate cold temperatures but may benefit from protection during harsh winter conditions.
• Fertilizing: Feed violets with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).

3 interesting facts about violets

1. French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte loved violets so much that after his wife, Josephine, died, he covered her grave in dozens of violet petals.
2. William Shakespeare made references to violets in several of his plays. In “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” Oberon mentions the “little western flower,” believed to be a reference to the violet.
3. The violet’s association with modesty can be traced back to the story of the Greek goddess Artemis. According to Greek mythology, each of Artemis’ nymph friends swore to stay maidens for their entire life. After Artemis’ brother Apollo chased the nymphs relentlessly, Artemis had no choice but to protect them from her brother by turning them into violets.

What are the best February birth flower gifts?

These lovely gift options showcase everything we love about the February birth flowers.

What is the history of primrose?

Primroses are believed to have been cultivated as ornamental plants as far back as ancient Rome. The Latin name “Primula” is derived from the Latin word “primus,” meaning first, which reflects the plant’s early springtime flowering.

Later on, primroses became popular ornamental plants in gardens across Europe, cultivated not only for their beauty but also their potential medicinal benefits. In the Middle Ages, these perennials were used to treat such afflictions as arthritis and paralysis.

Primroses have been associated with various folklore and superstitions. For example, according to Celtic beliefs, the primrose is sacred and the key to heaven, and Irish people commonly placed it in doorways as a signal to fairies to keep their homes safe.

What does the primrose mean?

Primroses are often associated with young love and early affection. In the language of flowers, they convey sentiments of budding romance, making them popular choices for expressing feelings in matters of the heart.

As early bloomers in the spring, primroses also symbolize hope, optimism, and the promise of brighter days ahead.

As with many other flowers, the color of primroses can influence their symbolism. For example, yellow primroses are often associated with positivity and joy, while pink primroses may convey feelings of affection and gratitude.

How to care for primrose

Primrose is hardy and adaptable to most environments. And, unlike other early-blooming flowers, this perennial can stay open until late spring.

• Sunlight: Primrose prefers locations with filtered sunlight or dappled shade, so planting them in partial to full shade is best.
• Soil: Use well-draining, humus-rich soil for primroses. A mix containing peat moss, perlite, and compost works well.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Water primroses at the base to prevent wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal issues.
• Temperature: Primroses prefer cool to moderate temperatures. Protect outdoor primroses from extreme cold temperatures, and provide insulation, such as a layer of mulch, during winter.
• Humidity: Primroses appreciate higher humidity levels. Increase humidity by placing a tray of water near the plants or using a humidifier, especially in dry indoor environments.
• Fertilizing: Feed primroses with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).

3 interesting facts about primrose

1. Primrose Day is observed in the United Kingdom each year on April 19 to commemorate the death of British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, who had a fondness for the flower.
2. In the popular young adult series “The Hunger Games,” the younger sister of main character Katniss Everdeen is named Primrose Everdeen. She is named after the evening primrose, a flower known for its healing qualities — just like the character herself.
3. Shakespeare introduced the phrase “the primrose path” in his play “Hamlet.” It means taking the easy way out of a difficult situation.

Birth month flowers

Learn more about birth month flowers in our article series.

August – Gladiolus & Poppy

September – Aster & Morning Glory

October – Marigold & Cosmos

November – Chrysanthemum & Peony

December – Holly & Narcissus

January – Carnation & Snowdrop

As January unfolds, bringing with it the frosty charm of winter, it introduces us to the month’s two birth flowers. These blooms, each possessing a unique allure, add a touch of grace to the season — whether they are adorning a winter garden, enhancing a bouquet, or serving as tokens of love and appreciation.

Standing as symbols of enduring beauty, hope, and elegance, these two examples of floral excellence transcend the chill of winter and herald the promise of renewal in the approaching spring. So, as we embrace the coldest month of the year, let’s acquaint ourselves with the January birth flowers and what makes them so special.

What are the January birth flowers?

The January birth flowers are the carnation and snowdrop.

Carnations (Dianthus caryophyllus) are known for their frilly petals and sweet fragrance. They come in a spectrum of colors, including white, pink, red, purple, and even green. Their ruffled appearance, spicy-sweet scent, and long, sturdy stems make them a favorite for floral arrangements and bouquets. Due to their versatility and durability, carnations are used in variety of settings, from formal events and weddings to everyday occasions, and frequently show up in boutonnieres and corsages.

Snowdrops (Galanthus) are petite, bell-shaped flowers with pristine white petals. They bloom in late winter to early spring, sometimes even pushing through the snow, hence their name. Snowdrops are generally small, reaching heights of 3 to 6 inches, and typically grow in clumps or clusters. They naturalize easily, spreading over time, and can form extensive colonies.

What is the history of carnations?

Carnations date back over 2,000 years. They are believed to have originated in the Mediterranean, and were first cultivated by the Greeks and Romans, who used them in art and ceremonies, and even as medicinal remedies. (The genus name Dianthus is derived from the Greek words dios, meaning “divine,” and anthos, meaning “flower.”)

From there, carnations were introduced to Asia, particularly China and Japan, where they became popular and were cultivated for their aesthetic appeal.

In the Middle Ages, monks grew carnations in monastery gardens for both medicinal and decorative purposes, and during the Elizabethan age, carnations were prized for their fragrance, often being used in potpourri.

What does the carnation mean?

Generally, carnations are associated with fascination, love, and affection. They also have more specific meanings depending on their color.

Here’s the breakdown:

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

Carnations, particularly pink and red ones, have a strong association with Mother’s Day, and because of that, they also symbolize a mother’s love. Additionally, due to their long-lasting blooms, carnations have become synonymous with enduring love.

How to care for carnations

Most carnations require little more than basic flower care. This guide will help you plant, grow, and care for your carnations.

• Soil: When planting carnations,choose a well-drained soil with a slightly alkaline to neutral pH.
• Sunlight: Plant carnations in an area that receives full sun for at least 4 to 6 hours a day.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plants at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal issues. Water deeply when the soil feels dry to the touch, especially during dry spells.
• Fertilization: Feed carnations with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer during the growing season (spring to early fall).
• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
• Pruning: Trim the plants lightly, cutting back by about one-third, after the first flush of blooms to promote bushier growth.
• Winter care: In regions with cold winters, apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to protect them from freezing temperatures. Consider bringing potted carnations indoors or providing additional protection if extreme cold is expected.

3 interesting facts about carnations

1. The green carnation is one of the most iconic flower symbols in LGBTQ+ history. Legendary gay playwright Oscar Wilde asked actors and friends to wear green carnations at the opening night performance of his play “Lady Windemere’s Fan” in 1892; subsequently, Parisian gay men began wearing green carnations in public to send a message to other men that they were gay.
2. In Victorian times, striped or variegated carnations were sometimes associated with a refusal or message that conveyed “I cannot be with you.”
3. The Carnation Revolution took place in Lisbon, Portugal, on April 25, 1974, resulting in the country’s transition from a dictatorship to a democracy. The event got its name from the fact that demonstrators, while celebrating the overthrow of the authoritarian government in the streets, distributed carnations to soldiers.

What are the best January birth flower gifts?

These enchanting gift options highlight everything we love about the January birth flowers.

What is the history of snowdrops?

Snowdrops are native to parts of Europe and Asia, and have been growing in the wild for centuries. They are believed to have originated in the eastern Mediterranean region and parts of the Middle East.

In the 17th century, they became more popular in European gardens, especially in England. During the Victorian era, they were featured in “Language of Flowers” books as symbols of hope and consolation.

Snowdrops were introduced to North America in the 19th century and have naturalized in some regions, particularly in the northeastern part of the continent.

What does the snowdrop mean?

With their ability to bloom early and appearance marking the arrival of spring, snowdrops are often seen as symbols of hope and rebirth. Their pristine white petals also call to mind purity and innocence; in some cultures, they are even associated with the Virgin Mary.

Snowdrops are hardy flowers that can withstand cold temperatures and even bloom in snowy conditions and, thus, are associated with strength and the capacity to overcome challenges. As symbols of remembrance, these flowers are often planted in cemeteries and memorial gardens.

Snowdrops have symbolic roots in different religions too. In Christianity, they are sometimes referred to as “Candlemas bells” because they often bloom around the time of the Candlemas festival (on Feb. 2), which marks the presentation of Jesus at the Temple in Jerusalem. In pagan traditions, snowdrops are associated with the festival of Imbolc, a celebration of the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.

How to care for snowdrops

Caring for snowdrops is relatively straightforward, as these resilient and low-maintenance flowers are adapted to colder climates. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Planting: Plant snowdrop bulbs in late summer to early fall, in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Snowdrops thrive in partial to full shade. Plant them in locations where they receive dappled sunlight or filtered light from deciduous trees.
• Soil: Ensure the soil is consistently moist but well-drained. Improve soil drainage by adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to the planting area.
• Watering: Water newly planted bulbs thoroughly to help them establish roots. After that, snowdrops are generally drought tolerant and require minimal watering.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch, such as straw or bark, around the snowdrops to help retain soil moisture and suppress weed growth.
• Deadheading: Deadhead spent flowers to redirect energy back into the bulbs and prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production.
• Winter protection: While snowdrops are cold hardy, providing some protection during the winter can be beneficial. Mulch can help insulate the soil and protect the bulbs.

3 interesting facts about snowdrops

1. Snowdrops have a dedicated following of enthusiasts known as “galanthophiles,” who collect and cultivate various snowdrop varieties.
2. Snowdrops contain substances known as alkaloids, and all parts of the plant are considered toxic if ingested.
3. A single snowdrop bulb called “Golden Tears” sold in 2022 on eBay for a record-setting sum of more than $2,300!

Birth month flowers

Learn more about birth month flowers in our article series.

August – Gladiolus & Poppy

September – Aster & Morning Glory

October – Marigold & Cosmos

November – Chrysanthemum & Peony

December – Holly and Narcissus

With November come cooler temperatures and the promise of the holiday season. It is a month often viewed as one of transition, a period on the calendar when we are deep into the fall and feeling all the effects of that season — not to mention a few of the impending winter.

And the November birth flowers are, like the month itself, seemingly a study in contrasts. One, an absolute autumn stalwart and another a spring time staple, and a mainstay in some of the most noteworthy celebrations in our lives. But similarities do exist between the two, as we will soon discover.

Comes with us as we explore the November birth flowers and why we love them so.

What are the November birth flowers?

The November birth flowers are the chrysanthemum and peony.

Chrysanthemums, often referred to as “mums” for short, belong to the genus Chrysanthemum in the Asteraceae family. About 40 known species exist, and these can vary greatly in size; some are compact and low growing, while others can reach heights of several feet. They come in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, orange, red, pink, lavender, and even green; and shapes, including single, semi-double, double, pompon, anemone, and spider. Mums are known for their fall blooming season, typically from late summer to late autumn.

Peonies are the only genus in the family Paeoniaceae. The 30 species of this flower are all famous for their large, showy, and fragrant blossoms. These blooms come in a variety of colors, including white, pink, red, and coral, and some even have striking bicolor or multicolor petals. Peony flowers typically have five or more large, overlapping petals that can be single, semi-double, or fully double. The plants can grow from 1 to 5 feet tall, and have a short bloom season, which typically lasts just 7 to 10 days and takes place in late spring and early summer.

What is the history of the chrysanthemum?

Chrysanthemums are native to Asia and have been cultivated for over 2,000 years. The Chinese highly valued chrysanthemums ― reserving them for the emperor’s garden ― and saw them as symbols of prosperity, honor, and beauty. The Japanese, too, held them in great esteem, planting them in traditional gardens and featuring them in artwork and poetry. In the 18th century, chrysanthemums made their way to Europe and North America, where they were prized for their beauty and fragrance.

What does the chrysanthemum mean?

Chrysanthemums are often associated with longevity and joy, representing a life filled with happiness and abundance. Some cultures even believe that chrysanthemums have healing properties and use them in traditional medicine. Additionally, the different colors of chrysanthemums convey specific emotions; red, for instance, symbolizes love and yellow represents friendship.

How to care for chrysanthemums

Here are some simple tips to help you care for your mums.

• Watering: Chrysanthemums need regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water the soil around the base of the plants, keeping the foliage dry to prevent disease.
• Sunlight: Chrysanthemums thrive in full sun. Give them at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
• Soil: Plant chrysanthemums in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid soil that retains too much water, as this can cause root rot.
• Fertilizing: Feed chrysanthemums with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
• Pruning: Remove any dead or diseased foliage and spent flowers to encourage new growth and blooming.

3 interesting facts about chrysanthemums

These facts highlight the versatility, health benefits, and cultural significance of chrysanthemums.

1. Natural insect repellent

Chrysanthemums contain pyrethrin, a natural insect repellent. This compound is often extracted and used in insecticides and pet shampoos to repel fleas and ticks.

2. Eatable flowers

Chrysanthemum petals are fit for eating and have been used in traditional Asian cuisine for centuries. They often appear in salads, teas and soups, and as garnishes for various dishes.

3. Japanese festival

Japan holds a festival dedicated to chrysanthemums called the “Chrysanthemum Festival” or “Kiku Matsuri.” It typically takes place in November and features displays of intricate chrysanthemum arrangements.

What is the history of the peony?

Like chrysanthemums, peonies also originate in Asia. The Chinese associate the peony with wealth, honor, and love, and even considered it the national flower for a time. In Japan, peonies symbolize bravery and often appear in traditional artwork. From Asia, peonies spread to Europe in the 18th century and became a beloved flower in gardens across the continent, before reaching the U.S. in the late 1800s.

What does the peony mean?

People often associate peonies with romance, love, and good fortune. In some cultures, these flowers represent compassion and even healing. In fact, the word “peony” comes from the Latin word paeony, which is derived from the Greek word pauon, meaning “to heal.” The elegant blooms and sweet fragrance of peonies make them a popular choice for weddings and other special occasions.

How to care for peonies

These care tips will help you get the most out of your peonies.

• Planting: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Dig a hole that is wide and deep enough to accommodate the roots of your plant.
• Watering: Water peonies deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the peony plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Support: As peonies grow, their large, heavy blooms can droop. Use stakes or a peony ring to provide support for your peonies.
• Pruning: After blooming, trim the faded flowers and any dead or diseased foliage. Leave the stems and foliage in place until late fall to help nourish the plant.

3 interesting facts about peonies

Peonies are resilient, clever, and alluring, as these facts demonstrate.

1. Long life

Peonies are known for their longevity. Some peony plants can live for several decades, and there are reports of peony bushes that have thrived for over a century.

2. Insects and pollination

Peonies have evolved a unique pollination strategy. They do not produce nectar but instead offer ants a sweet, sticky substance on the outside of their buds. This attracts ants, which help protect the peony buds from other insects that might harm them.

3. Peony festival

Luoyang, China, has held its famous Peony Festival annually for over 1,500 years. The festival showcases thousands of peony varieties and attracts visitors from around the world.

What are the best November birth flower gifts?

These delightful gift options highlight everything we adore about the November birth flowers.

Harvest Outdoor Mum

Available in vibrant red or orange, this gorgeous autumn display arrives in a bushel basket planter, adding to its seasonal delight.

Pink Peony Wreath

Give them a lovely way to welcome friends and family to their home. The flowers and greenery on this wreath may not be real, but the charm this piece exudes certainly is!

Posh Peony Spa Gift with Wine

A luxurious gift if ever there was one, this combo pack features peony-scented gel, lotion, scrub, and soap to soothe the skin, and a bottle of sparkling rosé to soothe the soul.

Birth month flowers

Learn more about birth month flowers in our article series.

August – Gladiolus & Poppy

September – Aster & Morning Glory

October – Marigold & Cosmos