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| Complete Birth Flower Chart By Month Guide |
Discover your birth flower by month and date! Explore the meaning, symbolism, history, and care tips for each flower. Your perfect floral personality awaits!
1. Have You Discovered Your Birth Flower Yet?
Did you know that just like birthstones, each month of the year has its own special flower? These birth flowers carry unique meanings and symbolism that might reveal something about your personality or provide the perfect gift idea for a loved one's birthday.
Birth flowers have been celebrated across cultures for centuries, with traditions dating back to Roman times when flowers were given as birthday gifts. Today, these botanical birthday symbols continue to fascinate people worldwide, offering a meaningful connection to nature's beauty.
In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover your birth flower based on your birth month and date, learn about its rich symbolism and history, and find inspiration for meaningful gifts. Whether you're curious about your own floral emblem or searching for the perfect birthday present, our birth flower chart has everything you need!
Use our birth flower chart below to find your flower, or scroll down to learn more about each month!
2. Birth Flower Chart: Your Complete Month-by-Month Guide
| Month | Date Range | Primary Flower | Alternative Flower |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | January 1-31 | Carnation | Snowdrop |
| February | February 1-29 | Violet | Primrose |
| March | March 1-31 | Daffodil | Jonquil |
| April | April 1-30 | Daisy | Sweet Pea |
| May | May 1-31 | Lily of the Valley | Hawthorn |
| June | June 1-30 | Rose | Honeysuckle |
| July | July 1-31 | Larkspur | Water Lily |
| August | August 1-31 | Gladiolus | Poppy |
| September | September 1-30 | Aster | Morning Glory |
| October | October 1-31 | Marigold | Cosmos |
| November | November 1-30 | Chrysanthemum | Peony |
| December | December 1-31 | Narcissus | Holly |
3. Month-by-Month Birth Flower Guide
3.1. January Birth Flowers
January's cold winter days are brightened by two stunning birth flowers: the versatile Carnation and the delicate Snowdrop.
Carnation (January Birth Flower)
Carnations are one of the world's oldest cultivated flowers, with a rich history dating back more than 2,000 years.
Symbolism & Meaning: Carnations generally symbolize fascination, distinction, and love. However, different colors carry unique meanings:
- Pink carnations represent a mother's undying love
- Red carnations express deep romantic love and admiration
- White carnations symbolize pure love and good luck
- Yellow carnations can signify disappointment or rejection
History & Origin: Native to the Mediterranean region, carnations were used in Greek and Roman ceremonial crowns and garlands. Their scientific name, Dianthus, comes from Greek words meaning "divine flower."
Care Tips: Carnations thrive in cool temperatures with full sunlight. They prefer well-drained soil and moderate watering, making them relatively easy to maintain as cut flowers or garden plants.
Gift Ideas: Carnation bouquets, carnation-scented perfumes, or carnation-themed jewelry make thoughtful January birthday gifts.
Snowdrop (Alternative January Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Snowdrops represent hope and rebirth, as they're often the first flowers to bloom at winter's end.
History & Origin: Native to Europe and the Middle East, snowdrops have been cultivated since the early 16th century. In Victorian language of flowers, they symbolized purity and consolation.
January Birth Flowers Summary: Both carnations and snowdrops offer hope during winter's coldest month—carnations with their long-lasting blooms and snowdrops with their promise of spring's return.
3.2. February Birth Flowers
February brings us the sweet violet and cheerful primrose, perfect floral representations for the month of love.
Violet (February Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Violets symbolize modesty, faithfulness, and virtue. In ancient times, they represented fertility and were associated with love.
History & Origin: Violets have been cultivated since Ancient Greece, where they were used to make wine, food flavorings, and medicine. The Greeks considered violets a symbol of fertility and love, often associated with Aphrodite.
Care Tips: Violets prefer partial shade and consistent moisture. Indoor varieties need bright, indirect light and regular, gentle watering.
Gift Ideas: Violet-scented perfumes, crystallized violet sweets, or potted African violets make thoughtful February birthday gifts.
Primrose (Alternative February Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Primroses represent youth, young love, and cannot-live-without-you sentiments, making them perfect for February's Valentine's season.
February Birth Flowers Summary: February's birth flowers perfectly capture the essence of late winter—the modest violet speaking to enduring love, while the primrose signals the first promise of spring's arrival.
3.3. March Birth Flowers
March heralds the arrival of spring with the cheerful daffodil and its close cousin, the jonquil.
Daffodil (March Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Daffodils symbolize rebirth, new beginnings, and eternal life. They also represent unrequited love in some traditions.
History & Origin: These spring bloomers have been cultivated for thousands of years, originating in the Mediterranean. In Welsh tradition, finding the first daffodil of spring brings good luck for the coming year.
Care Tips: Plant daffodil bulbs in fall in well-drained soil with full or partial sun. As cut flowers, change their water daily and keep them away from other cut flowers, as daffodils release a sap that can harm other blooms.
Gift Ideas: Potted daffodils, daffodil-themed jewelry, or spring-themed gift baskets featuring these cheerful flowers.
Jonquil (Alternative March Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Jonquils represent desire, affection, and sympathy. Their sweet fragrance has made them popular in perfumery.
March Birth Flowers Summary: Both March birth flowers bring bright yellow optimism after winter's gray days, perfectly symbolizing spring's renewal and fresh starts.
3.4. April Birth Flowers
April celebrates the simple beauty of the daisy and the sweet fragrance of sweet peas.
Daisy (April Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Daisies symbolize innocence, purity, and true love. The phrase "fresh as a daisy" comes from this flower's association with new beginnings.
History & Origin: The name "daisy" comes from "day's eye," as the flower opens at dawn and closes at dusk. Daisies have been used in folk medicine for thousands of years to treat coughs, digestive issues, and wounds.
Care Tips: Daisies are low-maintenance plants that prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Regular deadheading encourages continuous blooming.
Gift Ideas: Daisy bouquets, daisy-patterned items, or daisy-chain jewelry make charming April birthday gifts.
Sweet Pea (Alternative April Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Sweet peas symbolize blissful pleasure, delicate pleasure, and departure after good times.
April Birth Flowers Summary: April's birth flowers perfectly capture spring's youthful energy—the cheerful daisy representing fresh starts and the fragrant sweet pea adding a touch of delicate beauty.
3.5. May Birth Flowers
May celebrates the delicate Lily of the Valley and the flowering Hawthorn.
Lily of the Valley (May Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Lily of the Valley symbolizes sweetness, humility, and a return to happiness. It's also associated with purity and is a traditional bridal flower.
History & Origin: This woodland flowering plant has been cherished since medieval times. According to Christian legend, the tears Mary shed at the cross turned into Lilies of the Valley.
Care Tips: These shade-loving plants prefer rich, moist soil. Though beautiful, remember that all parts of this plant are highly toxic if ingested.
Gift Ideas: Because of their toxicity, gift Lily of the Valley as artwork, perfume, or scented candles rather than live plants for households with children or pets.
Hawthorn (Alternative May Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Hawthorn represents hope and supreme happiness. In Celtic tradition, it was associated with protection and fertility.
May Birth Flowers Summary: May's birth flowers perfectly capture late spring's delicate beauty—the sweet-scented Lily of the Valley and the protective, happiness-bringing Hawthorn.
3.6. June Birth Flowers
June celebrates the classic rose and the sweet honeysuckle, perfect for early summer birthdays.
Rose (June Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Roses generally symbolize love and passion, but different colors carry specific meanings:
- Red roses represent romantic love
- Pink roses symbolize admiration and gratitude
- White roses stand for purity and innocence
- Yellow roses express friendship and joy
History & Origin: Roses have been cultivated for over 5,000 years, originating in Asia. They've been symbols of love, beauty, and devotion across countless cultures.
Care Tips: Roses need at least six hours of sunlight daily and well-drained soil. Regular pruning encourages healthy growth and more blooms.
Gift Ideas: Rose bouquets, rose-scented perfumes, rose oil skincare products, or rose gardens for June birthdays.
Honeysuckle (Alternative June Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Honeysuckle represents devoted affection and bonds of love.
June Birth Flowers Summary: June's birth flowers perfectly capture early summer's romantic mood—the timeless rose speaking to enduring love and the sweet honeysuckle representing devoted affection.
3.7. July Birth Flowers
July brings the striking larkspur and the ethereal water lily as its birth flowers.
Larkspur (July Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Larkspur symbolizes lightness, levity, and an open heart. Different colors have specific meanings:
- Pink larkspur represents fickleness
- White larkspur symbolizes happiness
- Purple larkspur represents first love
History & Origin: Ancient Greeks believed larkspur sprang from the blood of Ajax during the Trojan War. Despite its beauty, be aware that all parts of larkspur are poisonous.
Care Tips: Larkspurs need full sun and well-drained soil. These tall flowers may require staking to prevent them from falling over.
Gift Ideas: Larkspur bouquets, dried larkspur arrangements, or larkspur-inspired artwork.
Water Lily (Alternative July Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Water lilies represent purity of heart, enlightenment, and rebirth.
July Birth Flowers Summary: July's birth flowers capture summer's full bloom—the tall, dramatic larkspur and the serene, floating water lily both offering distinctive beauty during summer's peak.
3.8. August Birth Flowers
August celebrates the dramatic gladiolus and the vibrant poppy as its birth flowers.
Gladiolus (August Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Gladiolus symbolizes strength of character, moral integrity, and infatuation. The flower's name comes from the Latin "gladius," meaning sword, due to its shape.
History & Origin: Native to Africa, the Middle East, and Mediterranean Europe, gladioli have been cultivated since ancient times. Roman gladiators wore them around their necks for protection and good luck.
Care Tips: Gladioli need full sun and well-drained soil. Plant the corms after the last frost and stake tall varieties to prevent them from toppling.
Gift Ideas: Gladiolus bouquets, gladiolus-themed artwork, or gladiolus bulbs for gardeners.
Poppy (Alternative August Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Poppies symbolize remembrance, consolation, and fantastic extravagance.
August Birth Flowers Summary: August's birth flowers offer bold summer statements—the sword-like gladiolus standing tall with strength and the poppy delivering vibrant color during summer's hottest days.
3.9. September Birth Flowers
September brings the starry aster and the climbing morning glory as its birth flowers.
Aster (September Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Asters symbolize patience, daintiness, and love. Their name comes from the Greek word for "star," reflecting their star-shaped flowers.
History & Origin: In ancient times, people believed burning aster leaves would drive away evil serpents. Victorian language of flowers associated asters with daintiness and patience.
Care Tips: Asters need full to partial sun and well-drained soil. Pinching them back in early summer encourages bushier growth and more blooms.
Gift Ideas: Aster bouquets, aster seeds for gardeners, or star-themed jewelry reflecting the flower's shape.
Morning Glory (Alternative September Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Morning glories symbolize affection, mortality, and the fleeting nature of life, as their blooms last only one day.
September Birth Flowers Summary: September's birth flowers bridge summer and fall—the starry asters bringing late-season color and the morning glories reminding us to appreciate each day's fleeting beauty.
3.10. October Birth Flowers
October celebrates the vibrant marigold and the delicate cosmos as its birth flowers.
Marigold (October Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Marigolds symbolize creativity, passion, and cruelty (derived from their association with grief). Their vibrant colors match autumn's golden hues.
History & Origin: Marigolds have been cultivated for centuries across many cultures. In Mexico, they play a central role in Day of the Dead celebrations, guiding spirits with their bright colors and strong scent.
Care Tips: Marigolds are low-maintenance flowers that thrive in full sun. They actually prefer poor soil, as rich soil produces more leaves than flowers.
Gift Ideas: Marigold bouquets, marigold seeds, or marigold-infused skincare products.
Cosmos (Alternative October Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Cosmos symbolize order, harmony, and peace. Their name comes from the Greek word for "harmony of the universe."
October Birth Flowers Summary: October's birth flowers perfectly capture autumn's essence—marigolds bringing fiery orange and gold tones while cosmos add delicate beauty as the growing season winds down.
3.11. November Birth Flowers
November features the bold chrysanthemum and the luxurious peony as its birth flowers.
Chrysanthemum (November Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Chrysanthemums symbolize loyalty, honesty, and joy. Different colors carry specific meanings:
- Red chrysanthemums represent love
- White chrysanthemums symbolize truth and loyalty
- Yellow chrysanthemums stand for neglected love or sorrow
History & Origin: Chrysanthemums have been cultivated in China since the 15th century BC. In Japan, the chrysanthemum is so revered that the country celebrates Chrysanthemum Day and features the flower on its imperial seal.
Care Tips: Chrysanthemums need full sun and well-drained soil. Pinching back growth in spring promotes bushier plants with more flowers.
Gift Ideas: Potted chrysanthemums, chrysanthemum tea, or chrysanthemum-themed artwork.
Peony (Alternative November Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Peonies symbolize prosperity, good fortune, and compassion.
November Birth Flowers Summary: November's birth flowers bring late-season splendor—chrysanthemums offering long-lasting autumn color while peonies represent the prosperity many cultures associate with the harvest season.
3.12. December Birth Flowers
December celebrates the paperwhite narcissus and festive holly as its birth flowers.
Narcissus (December Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Narcissus flowers symbolize rebirth and new beginnings, perfect for the month that brings the winter solstice and the gradual return of longer days.
History & Origin: Named after the Greek mythological figure Narcissus, these flowers have been cultivated for thousands of years. The paperwhite variety is especially popular during winter holidays.
Care Tips: Paperwhite narcissus bulbs can be easily forced indoors during winter, needing only water and pebbles—no soil required.
Gift Ideas: Paperwhite forcing kits, narcissus-scented products, or narcissus bulbs for spring planting.
Holly (Alternative December Birth Flower)
Symbolism & Meaning: Holly symbolizes protection, defense, and foresight. Its evergreen nature represents eternal life.
December Birth Flowers Summary: December's birth flowers bring cheer to winter's darkest days—narcissus offering sweet fragrance and promise of rebirth, while holly's evergreen foliage and bright berries add festive color.
4. Birth Flower Color Meanings
The color of your birth flower can add additional layers of meaning:
- Red: Love, passion, courage
- Pink: Gratitude, grace, happiness
- White: Purity, innocence, sympathy
- Yellow: Joy, friendship, new beginnings
- Purple: Royalty, dignity, success
- Blue: Peace, openness, serenity
- Orange: Enthusiasm, creativity, fascination
5. Birth Flower and Zodiac Signs
Many people find interesting connections between birth flowers and zodiac signs:
- Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 19): Carnation & Snowdrop
- Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 18): Carnation, Snowdrop, Violet & Primrose
- Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20): Violet, Primrose, Daffodil & Jonquil
- Aries (Mar 21-Apr 19): Daffodil, Jonquil, Daisy & Sweet Pea
- Taurus (Apr 20-May 20): Daisy, Sweet Pea, Lily of the Valley & Hawthorn
- Gemini (May 21-Jun 20): Lily of the Valley, Hawthorn, Rose & Honeysuckle
- Cancer (Jun 21-Jul 22): Rose, Honeysuckle, Larkspur & Water Lily
- Leo (Jul 23-Aug 22): Larkspur, Water Lily, Gladiolus & Poppy
- Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22): Gladiolus, Poppy, Aster & Morning Glory
- Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22): Aster, Morning Glory, Marigold & Cosmos
- Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 21): Marigold, Cosmos, Chrysanthemum & Peony
- Sagittarius (Nov 22-Dec 21): Chrysanthemum, Peony, Narcissus & Holly
6. Birth Flower FAQs
Q: How did the tradition of birth flowers begin? A: The association of flowers with birth months is believed to have originated in Roman times, when different flowers were used to celebrate birthdays. The tradition was formalized during the Victorian era when the language of flowers became popular.
Q: Can I have two birth flowers? A: Yes! Most months have both a primary and alternative birth flower, giving you choices in how you connect with your birth month's botanical symbols.
Q: How do I choose a birth flower gift? A: Consider the recipient's preferences for color and scent, as well as whether they'd prefer cut flowers, a potted plant, or flower-themed merchandise. The symbolism of the birth flower can also help guide your selection.
Q: Are birth flowers the same worldwide? A: Birth flower associations can vary slightly between cultures, though many Western countries follow similar traditions. Japanese birth flower traditions, for example, differ somewhat from Western ones.
7. How to Choose a Birth Flower Gift
When selecting a birth flower gift, consider these options:
- Fresh Flowers: A bouquet or arrangement featuring the recipient's birth flower
- Potted Plants: A living gift that continues to grow and bloom
- Seeds or Bulbs: Perfect for gardeners who would enjoy growing their birth flower
- Flower-Inspired Jewelry: Pendants, earrings, or bracelets featuring birth flower designs
- Artwork or Home Décor: Paintings, prints, or decorative items featuring birth flowers
- Fragrances: Perfumes or essential oils with the birth flower's scent
- Edible Treats: Some flowers can be made into teas, jellies, or crystallized decorations
8. Conclusion
Your birth flower offers a beautiful, natural connection to your birth month, carrying symbolism and meaning that has been celebrated for centuries. Whether you're discovering your own birth flower or finding the perfect floral gift for someone special, these monthly blooms add a touch of personalized natural beauty to birthday celebrations.
Did you find your birth flower? Share this article with your friends and family to help them discover theirs too!
