April is the month full of blooming life! We can finally see gardens awaken from their slumber, and flowers paint landscapes with vibrant colors. Speaking about flowers, do you know which blooms represent this month? That’s right, today we’re covering the April birth flower duo – daisy and sweet pea! In this guide, we’ll explore these charming blossoms, their histories, and how they make the perfect gift. Let’s jump right in!
What Is April’s Birth Flower?
Such beauties as daisies and sweet peas represent this spring month. Not only are they charming, but they also hold a special place in cultures all over the world. While daisies often symbolize innocence and purity, sweet peas are adored for their association with pleasure and good fortune. Both bring distinct charm and symbolism to the table, but which one truly speaks to you? Let us know in the comments!
Why Does April Have Two Birth Flowers?
Now, you may be wondering why April needs two blooms. Let us explain! Historically, different cultures and calendars have associated various flowers with each month based on regional preferences and availability. Moreover, having several blossoms allows for more diversity when picking gifts. Naturally, due to the different symbolic meanings of daisies and sweet peas, there’s more versatility for different moods, occasions, and personalities.
Daisy Birth Flower
Let’s get down to business with our first April flower of the month – daisy. For most, it’s a nostalgic bloom that brings back cherished childhood memories. Ever played he loves me, he loves me not? Or perhaps she? Ah, this classic game was like a rollercoaster of emotions back then! But that’s not the only thing daisies are cherished for. Read on to learn more about this cheerful bloom!
History and Lore
During ancient times, daisies were believed to bring good luck and protection. The name daisy originates from the Old English “daes eage,” meaning “day’s eye,” because the flower opens at dawn and closes at dusk. In ancient Norse mythology, this blossom was considered sacred to Freya, the goddess of love and fertility. And here’s a fun fact to impress your friends: daisy, specifically Bellis perennis, is the national flower of the Netherlands.
Symbolism Based on Colors
Despite white being the iconic color of this April birth month flower, in reality, they come in all sorts of different hues. Let’s explore some of them and the meaning they convey.
White
Blooms in this classic color symbolize purity and innocence. It’s a simple yet timeless pick for any occasion.
Yellow
Yellow daisies represent cheerfulness and joy. They’re the ideal choice for celebrating achievements or lifting someone’s spirits.
Pink
This color offers a more tender sentiment, symbolizing admiration and gratitude. An excellent option for anniversaries or birthdays when you want to show appreciation.
Varieties and Characteristics
The daisy family (Asteraceae) has an astounding number of species, more than 20,000! We’ll be stuck here for a long time, trying to name all of them. So, let’s stick with the most popular ones for now. If you’re seeking something more colorful, Gerbera daisies are an excellent option. They are trendy in the floral industry due to their wide range of colors and sturdy stems. For something more classical, there are Shasta and Oxeye daisies.
Blooming Season and Care
Daisies typically bloom from early spring to late fall, with April being a prime time. Here are some tips to grow this April month flower:
- Plant in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight.
- Water moderately; overwatering can lead to root mold.
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage new flowers.
Looking for tips to grow stunning daisies? PlantIn has got you covered with custom care plans tailored to your plants’ needs!
Sweet Pea Birth Flower
Now it’s time to talk about the second bloom – sweet pea. This April’s birth flower is known for its intoxicating fragrance and delicate beauty. Their climbing nature makes them perfect for creating stunning vertical displays. Beyond their visual charm, sweet peas are cherished for their symbolism of joy and good fortune. Without further ado, let’s delve even deeper into the lore of this blossom!
History and Lore
Sweet peas, scientifically known as Lathyrus odoratus, were first cultivated in the 17th century by a Sicilian monk, Francisco Cupani. It was popularized in England by Henry Eckford, a horticulturist who developed many of the varieties we see today. Over 50 cultivars of this fragrant blossom have gained the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. Sweet peas are more than just stunning ornamental plants; they are also edible! You can add young shoots and flowers to your dishes, such as salads. Additionally, dried sweet pea blossoms are the perfect way to amp up the taste of tea.
Symbolism Based on Colors
This delicate beauty comes in an array of colors, each bringing a different message. Here’s how color impacts the symbolism of this bloom.
Pink
Pink blooms are usually associated with youthfulness and joy. They’re ideal for celebrating happy occasions.
Purple
Purple Lathyrus odoratus represents spiritual wisdom and nobility. Gifting these shows deep respect and admiration.
Varieties and Characteristics
Sweet peas come in both annual and perennial varieties. They can climb up to 8 feet (2.4 meters), making them perfect for trellises and garden arches. The Cupani variety is one of the oldest and most fragrant, while modern hybrids offer a rainbow of colors.
Blooming Season and Care
The sweet pea April birth flower typically blooms in spring and early summer. They prefer cooler temperatures and thrive between 50-68°F (10-20°C). Here are some essential tips:
- Plant them in fertile, well-drained soil.
- Provide a trellis or support for the plant to climb.
- Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Dreaming of a fragrant sweet peas garden? Let PlantIn guide you with personalized care plans tailored just for you!
Daisy and Sweet Pea Flowers – Which One to Gift?
Deciding between daisies and sweet peas? Everything depends on the message you want to send. Daisies are perfect for those who exude joy and innocence, while sweet peas offer a sense of graceful sophistication. Either way, both flowers are timeless choices that will leave a lasting impression.
Floral Arrangements With April Birth Flowers
When it comes to floral arrangements featuring the birth flower for April, you have endless possibilities! Combining daisies and sweet peas can create stunning bouquets. For a fresh spring vibe, consider pairing white daisies with light pink roses or creating a centerpiece of purple sweet peas with sprigs of baby’s breath.
- Color Palette: For daisies, complement their bright whites and yellows with soft greens and pastels. For sweet peas, think soft pinks, purples, and lavender hues.
- Arrangement Ideas: Daisies are ideal for casual, wildflower-style bouquets, while sweet peas shine in elegant centerpieces or delicate wreaths.
- Tips for Arranging: When creating floral arrangements, always start with the freshest flowers. For a balanced bouquet, place taller flowers in the center, surrounded by softer blooms.
Tip: Daisies should be kept in water immediately after cutting to avoid wilting. As for sweet peas, they are more delicate, so handle them gently.
Tired of wilting bouquets? Pair your favorite potted blooms with PlantIn’s care guides for a lasting gift!
FAQ
Is April’s Birth Flower a Daisy or Sweet Pea?
Both! April has two official birth flowers: daisy and sweet pea. Both symbolize different aspects of the month, like love, beauty, and joy.
What Is April’s Birth Symbol?
The second month of spring has multiple birth symbols. Its flowers are daisies and sweet peas, while the diamond is its birthstone. The zodiac signs are Aries and Taurus.
What Is an April Birth Flower Tattoo?
If you’re interested in commemorating your April birthday, why not get a meaningful tattoo featuring daisies or sweet peas? Such a design symbolizes youth, innocence, and gratitude, and you’ll always have a memento of spring right beside you.
How Can April Birth Flowers Be Preserved?
There are several potential ways to preserve your favorite April flower. For example, you can press sweet peas between heavy books for a keepsake. Another option is drying the blossoms. A more creative idea is encapsulating your blooms in resin for jewelry or ornaments.
PlantIn is here to assist with all your plant care needs – from botanist help to custom care plans and trackers. Whether it’s helping your loved one grow their new plant or offering expert botanist advice, PlantIn is the perfect companion to any gift.
We’d love to hear from you! Share your own stories or tips about April’s birth flowers in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this guide with friends and family who have April birthdays or a love for flowers.
