Friday, May 27, 2016

Birth Flowers: What They Say About You

birth flowers feature
Long before email, texting, instant messages or even phone calls, people used flowers to communicate. The language of flowers — also known as floriography — was popular in the 18th and 19th century. While we now have more ways to communicate, the messages told with flowers are as meaningful today as ever. If you’re looking for a birthday gift for a special someone who is impossible to shop for, try birth flowers. Here is a guide:

January


january birth flower carnations

It takes a distinctly strong bloom to blossom in the cold winter month of January. Carnations are a bright spot in this gloomy month; they are one of the few flowers that can bloom in cool weather, as long as temperatures remain just above freezing. Also known as the gillyflower, carnations symbolize fascination, love and distinction. While the carnations’ hearty disposition makes it easier to grow and more affordable than some other high-maintenance buds, it often gets overlooked as a filler flower. They’re beautiful and simple which makes them charming, filler or not.

February


february birth flower violets

While many relate red roses with February thanks to the love holiday on the 14th, the violet is actually the birth flower of this month. This purple-hued bloom is a symbol of faithfulness, virtue and modesty. In the Victorian age, a gift of violets was a declaration to always be true, and it still serves as a wonderful reminder of loyalty, thoughtfulness and dependability. Another flower often cited as February’s birth flower is the primrose, a pale yellow perennial with European origins.

March


march birth flower daffodils

As the first month of spring, it’s all too appropriate that cheerful yellow daffodils are the birth flower for March. These little buds of sunshine symbolize unparalleled love and serve as a reminder that the sun is always shining when loved ones are in your life. Varieties of daffodils, also known as jonquil, vary in color, featuring white, orange and pale yellow blooms.

April


april birth flower daisies

Purity, innocence and above all, the most loyal love are just a few qualities that the daisy, April’s birth flower, symbolize. There are five common types of daisies with petals ranging in color from white to pink, around a bold yellow center. In the language of flowers, sending a bouquet of daisies is a way of telling someone that you will keep a secret. Another flower often associated as this month’s birth flower is the sweet pea, which symbolizes gratitude and pleasure. 
Find discount Anniversary Flowers at FTD! Go through this coupon and save up to 10% OFF!  http://coupon4share.com/store/ftd.com

May


may birth flower lily

With a dainty blossom and voluminous spray of blooms, May’s flower, the lily of the valley bursts with all of the bounty of the spring season. Lily of the valley blossoms are white and often arranged with lush greenery to contrast the wildflower-like composition. This flower signifies happiness, humility and sweetness.

June


june birth flower rose

As summer begins, no bloom better signifies the beauty and sweetness of the dawn of the new season than June’s birth flower, the rose. Available in a rainbow of colors, there are more than 100 species of roses. The rose is a symbol of devotion and love, and the various colors of roses carry their own meanings, from passionate love (red) to friendship (yellow).

July


july birth flower larkspur

The birth flower of July is the larkspur. Like roses, larkspur are also found in a wide range of colors including indigo, purple and pink, and each color variation carries its own unique meaning from first love (purple) to fickleness (pink). Though in general, larkspur is a symbol of the strong bonds of love and attachment.

August


august birth flower gladiolus

Gladiolus, often referred to as sword lily, is the birth flower of August. This bold bloom can be found in red, pink, orange, yellow and white and it’s a symbol of strength of character, remembrance and sincerity. There are more than 10,000 cultivars of gladioli and while some parts of the plant are poisonous, others, like the stem base have been used medicinally for centuries.

September


september birth flower aster

The fragrant and colorful aster is September’s birth flower. Also known as starworts or frost flowers, asters are a symbol of all-powerful love, affection and wisdom. Asters are available in many colors, but are most commonly found with pink, white, red, mauve or lilac blooms.

October


october birth flower marigolds

With its golden blooms that match the color of autumn leaves, it’s no wonder the marigold is the birth flower for October. Marigolds symbolize fierce love, warmth and overall contentment. In addition to their beauty, marigolds also have a long tradition of being used medicinally to heal inflammation and skin problems.

November


november birth flower chrysanthemum

The bright and cheerful chrysanthemum is the birth flower for November, offering a flourish of joy as winter begins. Often simply referred to as mums, you can find this bloom in a wide range of sizes and colors, including the most common pink, white, yellow and red varieties. Like roses and larkspur, each color carries its own meaning, but all symbolize love in one manner or another.

December


december birth flower narcissus

Narcissus is the birth flower of December. It is symbolic of good wishes, sweetness and a wish for the recipient to stay as they are. The most common type of narcissus is the daffodil, March’s birth flower, but there are numerous other varieties with blooms ranging from white to yellow in color.

9 Facts About Sunflowers

sunflowers feature
Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadow. It’s what sunflowers do.” ― Helen Keller
Sunflowers, a natural emblem of sunshine, are beautiful and happy flowers emanating with healing powers to uplift and inspire. A sunflower arrangement conveys joy and optimism throughout the tall and vibrantly yellow blooms. Along with cheery and ebullient energy, sunflowers are also plants with an interesting background and a myriad of health benefits. Here are some facts you might not have know about this flowering plant loved for its cheerfulness.

Sunflower Oil for Cooking


Sunflower Oil On Vegetables

In moderation, sunflower oil serves as a healthy source of fat, provides vitamin E and is low in saturated fatty acids. Cooking with sunflower oil can lower your risk of heart disease, help maintain a healthy weight and strengthen your immune system. Naturally free of trans fats, sunflower oil is even a healthy substitute for butter (especially for baking homemade bread).

Sunflower Oil for Beauty


Sunflower Oil For Beauty

Sunflowers are rich in vitamins A, B, C and E. Not only is the sunflower amazing for the skin, but it contains powerful anti-aging properties that fight off free radicals for a toned and glowing complexion. Sunflower oil is a strong emollient that keeps hair moisturized and looking radiant.

Heliotropism


Sunflower Heliotropism

Heliotropism is like solar tracking (also called phototropism), which enhances photosynthesis and boosts growth rates. With its sun-tracking characteristics, sunflowers are one plant species that face the sun and track its movement to optimize the use of light. Heliotropism also increases the flower’s temperature, attracting bees and pollinators. Buy Flowers for Under $35 at FTD. Buy Now! Click here

Habitat


Sunflowers Habitat

Sunflowers bloom as bright rays of sunshine during the summer months in dry, wide-open environments. The sunflower’s native environments are prairielands, plains and meadows. The bright yellow plant may also grow as a weed in farming fields and pastures. They often grow along highway routes, speculated to be planted by truckers who eat the sunflower seeds to stay awake on the road and spit them from their windows.

Record Height


Sunflowers Can Reach Record Heights

Giant sunflowers can grow to reach amazing heights. With adequate care and moisture, along with full sun exposure, sunflowers typically grow to be an average height of 10 to 20 feet. The tallest sunflower in the world was measured at 30 feet and 1 inch. It was grown in Karst, Nordrhein Westfalen, Germany, on August 28, 2014, according to GuinnessWorldRecords.com.

Preservation


Sunflowers Preservation

Sunflowers bloom gorgeously and naturally make delightful aesthetics for floral craft projects, especially because their coloring varies from yellow and deep red to pale and dark orange. GardeningGuides.com provides a step-by-step guide for how to dry sunflowers using silica gel and crystals. Preserved flowers can be framed with other pressed flowers as a charming decoration with a vintage look.

American-Indian Origins


Sunflowers Origins

American Indian tribes cultivated sunflowers as a common crop throughout North America. Evidence suggests that American Indians grew the crop in present-day Arizona and New Mexico around 3000 BC ― and may have even been domesticated before corn, informs the National Sunflower Association. Sunflower seeds were grounded into flour for cooking and mixed with vegetables. The sunflower was also turned into purple dye for textiles and body painting.

Sunflower Seeds


Sunflower Seeds

Black and stripe seeds are the only two kinds of sunflower seeds. Sunflower oil is made from black seeds (oilseed), whereas healthy snacks are made from striped seeds (non-oilseed). Black oilseed is typically the preferred type of feed for birds.

Source of Nutrition


Sunflower Seeds Are A Great Source Of Nutrition

Sunflowers produce nutrient-dense seeds, an excellent source of beneficial fats, protein, vitamins and minerals. Salted, dry-roasted sunflower seeds, rich in the antioxidant vitamin E, are eaten as part of a healthy diet. Seeds can also be raw dried, oil roasted or unsalted, dry-roasted. Other forms of sunflower seeds include ground sunflower seed butter and sunflower seed flour. Add sunflower seeds to chicken or tuna salad, mixed-green salads or even scrambled eggs to add unique flavor.

Pet Safe Plants for Indoors & Outdoors

Pet-safe plants feature
Unexpected vet visits can be costly but avoidable if you are knowledgeable about toxic vs. non-toxic plants. Be proactive in order to keep your furry family members away from harmful foliage. Our guide on how to keep pets safe from potentially poisonous and toxic plants will keep Fido from barking up the wrong bush.

Toxic Plants


dog and flowers

Make informed decisions about the types of plants to include in your home and outdoor space to keep your home pet safe. The toxicity of plants differs between dogs and cats. There are some plants and flowers listed below that are non-toxic to dogs but can have seriously adverse reactions to cats. Examples of a few plants that can be hazardous to pets if ingested include:
  • aloe vera
  • autumn crocus*
  • azalea*
  • baby’s breath
  • begonia
  • calla lily
  • chrysanthemum
  • daffodil
  • elephant’s ear
  • foxglove*
  • geranium
  • hydrangea*
  • japanese pieris*
  • larkspur
  • lupine
  • morning glory
  • oleander*
  • yew
The plants denoted with an asterisk are cardiotoxic and pose the highest risk to pets. Avoid these plants in your home and always cross reference a full list of toxic and non-toxic plants, such as ASPCA’s Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant searchable database. Symptoms from possible ingestion include mild nausea to death caused by kidney failure or a number of different subsequent reactions. A few signs of potential toxicity include: cold extremities, racing or irregular pulse, vomiting, lethargy, and rapid breathing. As a precaution, it is strongly suggested that if you suspect your dog or cat may have nibbled a potentially toxic plant, visit the vet immediately and bring a small sample of the plant that your dog or cat may have ingested. Follow this link to save 25% OFF Select Flowers, Gifts, and Plants at FTD! Click here

Non-Toxic Plants


cat and succulent

Non-toxic plants are just as beautiful and can brighten up any indoor or outdoor space where your pet may roam. A few examples include:
  • African violet
  • bamboo
  • blue echeveria
  • burro or lamb’s tail
  • hens and chickens (evergreen succulents)
  • jasmine
  • marigold
  • petunia
  • ponytail palm
  • rose
  • tiger orchid
  • wild hyacinth
To freshen your favorite indoor space, add the lush green foliage of a palm plant that is non-toxic to pets. Indoor plants are said to improve air quality and in some cases, combat air pollutants.

Tips for Plant Life with Pets


cat and plants

To keep playful pups away from your perennials, grow barrier plants that will encourage your four-legged friend to trot around as opposed to through your garden beds. Thorny rose bushes or tall bamboo are non-toxic plants that can be placed in your outdoor space to keep playful paws at bay. If fenced areas are an option, ensure the gate of the fence has a sturdy latch to avoid possible pet intrusions. This is ideal for vegetable gardens that you wish to have quick access to but want to keep your dog or cat out. Dogs are notorious for digging. Check the perimeter of the fence regularly for any holes.
Container gardening is another great alternative to protect both your pets and plants from one another. Place flowers, plants or vegetables in large pots or containers to avoid being trampled by your pet. Depending on the height of the pots or containers, select plants that are non-toxic. The Rosy Outlooks Rose Bush can be replanted in a larger pot or container and is the perfect addition to a porch or deck.
Avoid planting citrus trees where your dog may have access to fallen fruit.
Keep houseplants a safe distance away from pets’ reach. If your cat likes to peruse counters and tabletops, it is essential to only include houseplants that are non-toxic in your home.

Gifting Flowers or Plants


pet safe plants cat

If you are unsure whether the person you plan to send flowers to has a pet, colorful Gerbera Daisies are a safe bet and is non-toxic to both cats and dogs. Avoid bouquets that contain Baby’s Breath, as it is toxic to cats and dogs. Bouquets of Long Stem Mixed Roses are cheerful and vibrant. The recipient will rest at ease knowing the beautiful bouquet is non-toxic to their pets.
The Pony Tail Bonsai or the Lucky 7 Bamboo Arrangement are great alternatives to traditional flower bouquets and are non-toxic to both cats and dogs. Either of the two options make wonderful houseplants and are both relatively low maintenance.

Wedding Centerpiece Ideas for Your Special Day

hero-wedding-centerpieces
Roses, peonies, and ranunculus are some of the most popular wedding flowers, but what else can you combine them with to create your perfect bouquet or centerpiece? To give you a few ideas, we compiled seven wedding centerpieces that mix popular flowers with unique blooms, such as protea combined with garden roses and air plants.
These wedding centerpiece ideas are sure to inspire you to think outside the box when choosing your wedding flowers, and help you create a tablescape that everyone will remember.

Bold and Bright Wedding Centerpiece

wedding-centerpiece1

This summer brights wedding centerpiece steals the show, adding a welcome pop of color to the white tablescape. Foster’s Flower Shop strategically incorporates pinks, oranges, yellows, greens, and purples, to beautifully showcase the colors of the season.
The centerpiece was perfectly captured by Tina Jay Photography, and is made up of hydrangea, garden roses, ginestra, anemone, ranunculus, tulips, clematis, and dahlia.
  • Ranunculus – Ranunculus are popular for their bright blooms and delicate, layered petals. They do best in hardiness zones 8 to 10, and bloom in the summer. They’re great for adding texture to a bouquet or centerpiece, though they only last about a week as cut flowers.
  • Tulips – Tulips are popular because of their unique shape and wide variety of colors, from bright reds and yellows to nearly black purples. They bloom from spring into early summer. Red tulips are great for weddings because they symbolize true love.
  • Clematis – The Jackman clematis is the most popular type in North America. The flowers grow on a vine and bloom in mid to late summer. These purple blossoms do best in hardiness zones 4 to 8, and can grow in full sun to partial shade.
  • Hydrangeas – Hydrangeas are great statement flowers because of their voluminous, round clusters of blooms. They bloom from summer into fall in shades of white, pink, purple, and blue. For some species, the color is determined by the pH of the soil.
  • Garden roses – There are two types of garden roses — Modern Garden Roses and Old Garden Roses. Modern Garden Roses are the most common. They bloom continuously and have a long vase life, making them good for centerpieces.
  • Ginestra – Ginestra are great accent flowers, because of their many tiny buds attached to a long stem. They are known for their strong, sweet fragrance and typically come in shades of pink, purple, yellow, and white.
  • Anemone – There are many species of anemone, which are also known as windflowers. The fall blooming varieties are taller with cup-shaped blossoms, while the spring blooming varieties grow lower to the ground. They grow in a variety of colors including pink, red, purple, and white.

Chic and Effortless Wedding Centerpiece

wedding-centerpiece2
This beautiful whites and succulents centerpiece came together nicely to grace the tables of a gorgeous outdoor spring wedding. The wide-lipped vase allows the lush flowers to showcase their natural volume and texture, creating a cylindrical centerpiece that mimics the the shape of the most prominent flowers — dahlias, lisianthus, and roses.
The collaboration between photographer The Big Affair, event planner LVL Weddings, and floral designerFlorals by Jenny really helped this wedding centerpiece compliment and enhance the clean tablescape. This centerpiece consists of English roses, succulents, dahlias, lisianthus, dusty miller, passion fruit vine, snow on the mountain, and eucalyptus.
  • English Roses – English roses, also known as David Austin roses, are famous for their pleasant fragrance, repeat flowering capability, and wide range of colors. Their flowers have a cupped shape and many petals. They grow best in hardiness zones 5 through 10.
  • Succulents – Succulents are available year-round, but are an especially good addition to warm weather weddings because they can stand heat well and won’t wilt. Their soft greens, blues, and greys are great accents to light-colored centerpieces like the one above.
  • Dahlias – Dahlias can be used to add texture to a bouquet because of their many small, rounded petals. These flowers bloom in mid-summer, and will continue to bloom into the fall until the weather gets cold.
  • Lisianthus – Lisianthus flowers are great for centerpieces because of their long lifespan as cut flowers — many can last in a vase for two to three weeks. Their loose, ruffled petals are a welcome contrast to more structured flowers like dahlias.
  • Dusty Miller – Dusty miller can grow year-round in hardiness zones 7-10. It produces yellow flowers during the summer, though people are often most interested in its lacey, silvery foliage, which is commonly used in bouquets and centerpieces.
  • Passion Fruit Vine – The passion fruit vine is a unique addition to the centerpiece above. It grows best in subtropical environments, and produces aromatic purple or yellow fruits. The vines grow quickly and should be guided along a fence or trestle.
  • Eucalyptus – Eucalyptus’ long stems and many leaves are a great way to add depth to your centerpiece. The trees grow quickly, and are hardy and adaptive. Most species are evergreen, making them a good filler for bouquets and centerpieces year-round.

Muted and Modern Wedding Centerpiece

wedding-centerpiece5
 Find discount Anniversary Flowers at FTD! Go through this FTD coupon and save up to 10% OFF! 
This tablescape utilizes natural elements like geodes, quartz, and reclaimed wood, blending neutral colors with the soft pinks and greens of the centerpieces. These wedding centerpieces were designed by Arrangements Design and photographed by Katie McGihon. They consist of garden roses, protea, dusty miller, kangaroo paw, and air plants.
  • Protea – Protea, also known as sugarbushes, are tropical flowers that are native to South Africa. There are over 2000 species of these flowers, which are known for their large, dome-like center with surrounding spiky, colorful petals.
  • Kangaroo Paw – The fine hairs that surround kangaroo paw flowers give them their pollen-like appearance. These flowers are native to Africa, and they grow in a variety of colors including black, red, yellow, and orange.
  • Air Plants – Air plants are great for warm weather weddings because they can withstand heat and do not need to be kept in water. Because of this they can easily be placed around the centerpieces or be incorporated into table settings as well.

Wild and Rustic Wedding Centerpiece

wedding-centerpiece6

This rustic wedding used the deep purple and pink centerpieces to play up the natural brown tones of the table and gold accents of the glassware. The vases in varying heights gave the table some variation, while still keeping a consistent aesthetic. Each centerpiece was designed with care by Marie Floral Stylist and photographed by Gaile Deoso of Wanderlust Creatives.
The centerpieces consist of carnations, spray roses, kale flower, eucalyptus, statice, veronicas, dianthus, and amaranthus.
  • Carnations – Carnations are great flowers for centerpieces because of their long life as cut flowers, usually two to three weeks, and their vast color assortment. Red and pink carnations symbolize love and admiration, making them fitting for a wedding.
  • Spray Roses – Spray roses usually have smaller blooms than typical roses, making them a good accent flower for centerpieces. Because they grow from small stems attached to one large stem, they’re often used for boutonnieres and corsages as well.
  • Kale Flower – Ornamental kale plants, which are not edible, are grown for the vivid color of their ruffled leaves. For optimal color, they must be grown in cool weather and kept well watered. They grow best in spring or fall in hardiness zones 2-11.
  • Statice – Statice are used on both fresh and dried floral arrangements. They begin blooming in summer, and bloom into fall. Statice are relatively easy to grow because they are hardy plants that are drought tolerant and deer resistant.
  • Veronicas – Veronicas are known for their narrow, spiky shape. They have a long bloom time — six to eight weeks — and bloom throughout the summer. They’re also known as speedwell, and known for their vivid blues and purples.
  • Green Trick Dianthus – Green trick dianthus is a unique flower that has a fuzzy, globe-like appearance. It was bred in Japan, and is relatively new to the cut flower market, but works well in bouquets and centerpieces because of its long vase life.
  • Cascading Amaranthus – Amaranthus is known for its elegant appearance and vibrant color, which remains even when the plant is dried. It does best in warm weather and is drought tolerant.

Stylish and Feminine Wedding Centerpiece

wedding-centerpiece3

The soft pinks and oranges in this centerpiece go well with the silver, pink, and white tablescape. The shapes and textures of its three flowers — peonies, tuberoses, and tea roses — make this centerpiece visually interesting, while keeping it extremely cohesive.
  • Peonies – Peonies are known for their lush, pink petals. Like in the centerpiece above, they’re often used when they’re only partially open to make a statement without overwhelming the arrangement. Peonies bloom from spring into early summer.
  • Hybrid Tea Roses – Hybrid tea roses are one of the most popular cut flowers because of their long, upright stems and sweet fragrance. They bloom in a wide variety of colors including pink, purple, red, yellow, and white.
  • Tuberoses – Tuberose is known for its strong, delightful fragrance. Many small clusters of flowers grow along one stem, making this a great accent flower. Tuberose blooms in summer, and is commonly found in shades of white, pink, and yellow.

Vibrant and Fresh Wedding Centerpiece

wedding-centerpiece4
This elegant purple and white wedding centerpiece keeps it simple by complimenting the white and purple tablescape with various purple blooms. White hydrangeas alongside light and dark purple stock flowers are the most prevalent. They are accentuated by purple calla lilies, orchids, and magnolia leaves. The centerpiece was arranged by 2Birds Events and photographed by Kenzie Packrall.
  • Calla Lily – Calla lilies are best known for their white blooms, though they also grow in shades of purple, pink, and yellow. They’re great for centerpieces because of versatility, as they can be dyed to fit your color scheme.
  • Stock Flower – Stock flowers are popular for wedding arrangements because they symbolize a happy life. They’re known for their strong, clove-like scent and clusters of small, delicate flowers. Stock flowers bloom from late spring into summer.
  • Orchids – There are over twenty thousand types of orchids, the most popular are phalaenopsis, dendrobium, and cymbidium. Because these flowers are so elegant, and there are so many different types, they are very popular for bouquets and centerpieces.
  • Magnolia leaves – Magnolia trees and shrubs can be deciduous or evergreen. Evergreen varieties allow the bold, green, waxy leaves to be available year-round. They’re commonly used as filler in centerpieces and bouquets.

Soft and Elegant Wedding Centerpiece

wedding-centerpiece7

This pink and white centerpiece adds a soft touch of color to the white tablescape. The low, wooden box allows the flowers to come to life, while subtly complementing the curly willow branches.
This beautiful wedding was put together by Couture Events. The centerpiece was arranged by Stephanie Grace Design and captured by One Love Photography. It consists of hydrangeas, roses, curly willow, and snow on the mountain.
  • Snow on the Mountain – Snow on the mountain is known for its showy leaves, which have white accents. The leaves are often used as fillers in centerpieces because of their unique appearance. This plant grows best in hardiness zones 3 through 9.
  • Curly Willow – Curly willow, or corkscrew willow, is known for its curling branches, which are available year-round. These trees grow best in hardiness zones 4 through 8, and produce beautiful buds in the spring.

Friday, May 20, 2016

How to Choose Birthday Flowers – Flowers With a Meaning

It’s always a lovely idea to send someone flowers and let them know you are thinking about them; especially on their birthday. But did you know that flowers have a significant meaning? Flowers have been symbolic at many other life events such as a marriage or to celebrate the birth of a new baby so it makes sense that they should have a role to play on a birthday. Each month has a different flower to symbolize the changing seasons, zodiac sign or mythological deity. The language of flowers originated in Victorian times when speaking about emotion was a social taboo so certain flowers were assigned a meaning so it could be understood what the sender was trying to say. This is why red roses are now seen as a symbol of love etc. Follow this link to save 25% OFF Select Flowers, Gifts, and Plants at FTD! Click here
Of course depending on what you are doing for someone’s birthday and if you will be celebrating with them then you can afford to be even more creative. Why not create a display of their birth month flowers? Cakes, decorations and table displays (seek inspiration from our Christmas centrepiece guide) can all be made with birth month flowers and you don’t have to be an expert at floristry to create something special.
Guide to Birth Months and Their Flowers
So to personalise your birthday flowers use our quick reference guide to get you started with your decorating!
January – Carnation
The Carnation is a sign of love; fascination and distinction, pink, red, green, red and white are all symbolic for January birthdays.
February – Violet
Violets for those born in February means faithfulness, humility and chastity. Violets have had a hidden message since Victorian times. Violet shades – I’ll always be true and white shades – Let’s take a chance.
March – Daffodil
Friendship and domestic happiness is a sign of the daffodil given to those with a birthday in March. The daffodil and its bright cheery colours are often associated with happiness and springtime.
April – Daisy
Those born in April can take the Daisy as a sign of gentleness and innocence. This cheerful flower is a symbol that spring has sprung!
May – Lilly of the Valley
Sweetness and humility – these are symbolic for those born this month. Lilly of the valley certainly has the scent reminiscent of sweetness and the flowers gentle fairy like bells are humble amongst their large palm like leaves.
June – Rose
The rose denotes love and beauty and is often given at romantic times to symbolise this; Red being the most passionate colour in this variety.
July – Larkspur
Larkspur symbolises an open heart and attachment, possibly due to its unique shape. Pink white and mauve are the most popular varieties for this month.
August – Gladiolus
Sincerity and strength of character are all symbolised in the gladiolus. Its strong stem and powerful look are all obvious reasons why this flower is given these characteristics.
September – Aster
Love, faith, wisdom and valour are all attributed to this flower. These daisy like flower were said to have been created by Virgo who was saddened by the lack of stars in the sky and where her tears fell to the ground asters grew.
October – Marigold
Winning Grace is symbolic of those born in October. These beautiful ever graceful orange blooms of Marigold (Calendula) are often used as herbal remedies and some varieties can be eaten too.
November – Chrysanthemum
For November babies, Love and cheerfulness are symbolic of their flower the Chrysanthemum. They are also the flowers given for a thirteenth wedding anniversary.
December – Narcissus
Respect, modesty and faithfulness are all symbolic of Narcissus, the birth flower for December. The Victorian’s would use these flowers with the hidden message ‘you’re the only one’.
With the choices available it is easy to make a wonderful surprise for someone – If you are not with the person on their birthday why not send a bouquet of birthday flowers made for them and incorporate their special flowers? Nothing can personalise your bouquet more than showing you have really put some thought into the gift as well.