May Birth Flower Meaning & Symbolism
Every month comes with distinct birth flowers and the May birth flowers options are particularly appealing that represent beauty sweet, sweetness, and a hint of old folklore. If you’re celebrating your birthday in May, or looking for a meaningful present, knowing what flowers represent this month can add an emotional and richness to your gift.
In fact, two beautiful flowers are associated with birthdays in May The Lily of the Valley and the Hawthorn flower. Each flower has its own meaning, symbolism and stunning aesthetic appeal.
1. Lily of the Valley – The Primary May Birth Flower
Scientific Name: Convallaria majalis bloom season in Spring (April to June)
Colour: Mostly white, but occasionally pink
Symbolic Meaning of Lily of the Valley
It is the Lily of the Valley, a delicate flower that has tiny bell-shaped flowers, is the most famous flower that blooms in May. It’s been revered throughout the centuries because of its significance to:
- Sweetness
- Purity
- Humility
- Motherhood
In Victorian floriography (the flower language) the act of giving the recipient Lily in the Valley was like offering the wish of happiness and joy. The belief was that it brought luck to love relationships and new beginnings, making it a great flower for birthdays and weddings as well.
Cultural & Historical Significance
- Christian lore ascribed it to Virgin Mary’s tears.
- In France, it’s the custom to give Lily of the Valley on the 1st of May (La Fete du Muguet) as a sign of luck.
- It is also a popular choice in royal wedding bouquets such as those for princess Kate Middleton.
2. Hawthorn – The Secondary May Birth Flower
Scientific Name: Crataegus Bloom
Season: Late spring
Colour: White, pink, or red clusters
Symbolic Meaning of Hawthorn
Although it isn’t as well-known than Lily of the Valley, Hawthorn is recognised as an official May birthday flower. Its meanings are:
- Hope
- Fertility
- Protection
- Love and Balance
Hawthorn Tree and its flowers have a strong link to pagan practices along with Celtic mythology which is frequently viewed as magical and sacred. In earlier times, Hawthorn was used in wedding ceremonies, believed to protect from evil spirits.
Unique Uses & Symbolism
- In the herbal remedies, Hawthorn has been used to improve the health.
- The branches are used traditionally to celebrate May Day celebrations to signify the beginning of spring.
- Sometimes, it’s referred to as the “May Tree” which reinforces its connection to the vibrant month of May.
Why Birth Flowers Matter for Gifting and Personal Meaning
The act of giving someone a birth flower for May is a great method to add a touch of care to birthdays, anniversaries or spring-related celebrations. Whether they are fresh, dried or printed on accessories, May birth flowers will make any gift special.
Popular Gift Ideas Inspired by May Birth Flowers:
- Personalised jewellery made with Lily of the Valley designs
- The Pressed Hawthorn print art of flowers.
- Perfumes or floral candles.
- Garden seed sets for home planting.
Fun Facts About May Birth Flowers
- Lily of the Valley is highly fragrant, making it an extremely popular scent for home and perfumes.
- Hawthorn can be also utilised in traditional Chinese medicine.
- Despite their delicious appearance, consuming the flowers can be poisonous!
- In the astrological world, May is divided by Taurus as well as Gemini, both of which are in harmony with the two blossoms, the beauty of the earth and the vigour of curiosity.
Conclusion
If it’s the soft Lily of the Valley or the flamboyant Hawthorn The May birth flower symbolises the beauty and energy of spring. These flowers are a symbol of deep significance and can be beautiful gifts that transcend the usual.
At Morning Flowers, We create floral arrangements that honour stories and rather than dates. Find bouquets that are inspired by birth flowers and seasonal favourites that are perfect for birthdays and milestones or simply because.
Check out Morning Flowers to browse our handmade floral gifts and send something significant today.