While December is a month of joyous winter holidays, it is also the birth month of some lucky Sagittariuses and Capricorns. And what better way to celebrate such an occasion than by incorporating the unique December flower into the festivities? Although winter is not associated with floral abundance, like spring and summer, December boasts two outstanding blooms—holly and narcissus. And today, we’ll explore what this duo is all about!
What Is December’s Birth Flower?
When it comes to December, the first things that come to mind are joyful Christmas celebrations and the anticipation of the upcoming New Year. Thus, it’s no surprise that the twelfth month of the year has narcissus and holly as its birth flowers. While holly is the quintessential Christmas flower or rather a plant, narcissuses are symbolic of new beginnings and hope, making them perfect for a fresh start in the new year.
Why Does December Have Two Birth Flowers?
It may seem that December is solely about snowflakes and cozy family reunions, but in reality, this month is much more complex, just like its blooms. On the one hand, we have holly, a staple of holiday decorations in Western cultures that has a much deeper background. On the other hand, there are delicate paperwhites that represent renewal—a fitting sentiment as the year comes to a close. Therefore, both flowers complement each other, mirroring the unique spirit of winter’s first month.
Holly Birth Flower
Let’s start with our first birth flower for December—holly. Well, technically, it’s not a flower but a shrub, but let’s not complicate things even further! The Ilex genus, and specifically Ilex aquifolium, has been with us for centuries, becoming an iconic plant for winter festivities. Read on to discover why!
Symbolism and Meaning
With its vibrant red berries and sharp green leaves, holly is renowned as a symbol of protection and optimism. In Christian tradition, the red berries are said to represent the blood of Christ, while the pointed leaves symbolize the crown of thorns. Often associated with love, passion, and energy, the color red makes holly a potent symbol during the winter months. As for the plant’s glossy leaves, their green color signifies eternal life. The less common white berries are said to symbolize spiritual renewal. In spring, the plant blossoms with small white flowers, representing innocence.
History and Origin
This evergreen plant has been revered long before it became a popular decor element. For example, the Druids believed that holly had protective powers against evil spirits. During the Roman era, people associated holly with Saturn, the god of agriculture and harvest, and used it to decorate homes during the Saturnalia festival in December. Oh, and here’s a fun fact for all our Potterheads out there: holly actually serves as the material for Harry’s wand.
How Long Does Holly Last Once Cut?
Freshly cut Ilex aquifolium can last for a couple of weeks. But you can extend its life even further. Misting the leaves can help maintain their vibrancy and freshness throughout the holiday season.
Growing Tips & Tricks
Looking for an easy-to-grow and low-maintenance evergreen addition to your garden? Then holly’s your perfect match. Here are some starting tips:
- Plant holly in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH.
- Ensure it receives at least four hours of direct sunlight each day.
- Prune in late winter to shape the plant and encourage new growth.
Give your holly the best care with PlantIn’s personalized care plans—perfect for a festive addition to your home!
Narcissus Birth Flower
The following December birth month flower on our list is narcissus. While the entire genus is fascinating, paperwhite, also known as Narcissus papyraceus, is the species associated with the first month of winter. This perennial plant is native to the Mediterranean region but cherished worldwide for its fragrance and delicate clusters of white blossoms.
Symbolism and Meaning
While daffodils come in a plethora of stunning colors, paperwhites mostly boast white blooms. The flower symbolizes renewal and the promise of new beginnings, while its white petals represent purity. We’ll cover other daffodil colors in our birth flower guide for March, so stay tuned!
History and Origin
The flower’s name comes from the Greek myth of Narcissus, who was so captivated by his reflection that he turned into the flower we know today. In China, Narcissus papyraceus is associated with the Chinese New Year celebrations due to its blooming season. Nowadays, the paperwhite is cherished for its ability to bloom in winter, bringing a touch of spring into even the coldest months.
How Long Does Narcissus Last Once Cut?
On average, cut narcissus blooms have a shorter vase life, around a week. But don’t worry—with proper care, your flowers will brighten your home for a bit longer. Remember to change the water regularly and keep the vase in a cooler room.
Growing Tips & Tricks
Narcissus papyraceus can grow both indoors and outdoors. Here are some of our helpful tips:
- You can grow the bulbs in either well-draining soil or water.
- If growing outdoors, choose a sunny spot for planting, but ensure some shade during the hottest part of the day.
- Ideal growing temperatures are between 50-60˚F (10-15˚C).
Bring a burst of spring to your December! PlantIn offers expert care plans for your narcissus, allowing you to enjoy vibrant blooms all season long.
What Flowers Go Best Together With Holly and Narcissus in a Bouquet?
A bouquet featuring holly and narcissus is already stunning, but adding a few complementary flowers can elevate it even further. Pairing them with evergreens like pine or cedar can add a wintry touch. You can also opt for white roses or red carnations to add a pop of color that complements the vibrant tones of your December flowers.
What Is the Best December Birth Flower Gift – Holly or Narcissus?
If you’re planning on impressing someone with a floral gift, the first thing to consider is the recipient’s preferences and personality. For someone who’s into winter festivities, holly is the go-to choice, while paperwhites are ideal for those who adore elegance. However, the intense fragrance of paperwhites can be a hit or miss, so be aware!
Need a little something extra? Add a PlantIn care guide to your gift, making sure the plants thrive long after the special day!
FAQ
Is the December Birth Flower a Poinsettia or Narcissus?
While poinsettias are a popular holiday plant, the December birth flowers are actually paperwhite narcissus and holly.
Is Holly a Flower?
Although holly produces small white flowers, it’s actually a small shrub-like tree known for its red berries and spike-like leaves.
Can I Plant Narcissus in December?
Generally, gardeners tend to plant these bulbs in the fall. However, you can still plant narcissus in December or even as late as January if you live in warmer climates or are planting indoors.
What Flower Is 1st December?
There’s no specific flower associated with 1st December, but both narcissus & holly are celebrated throughout the month.
What Is December’s Birth Flower Tattoo?
If you’re more into lasting mementos, you can get a meaningful tattoo of your favorite December flower. Both holly and narcissus hold deep symbolism and cultural significance, making them excellent additions to your body art.
Whether you’re looking to brighten someone’s day with a thoughtful gift or simply want to learn more about December’s lovely blooms, PlantIn is here to help. Our range of services, from expert botanist advice to customized care plans, makes us the perfect solution to enhance your plant care routine.
Do you agree with the choice of blooms for this month? Let us know in the comments below!
