May is the heart of spring – a time when nature is bursting with life, presenting us with so many vibrant hues. From blooming gardens to lively celebrations like Mother’s Day and May Day, this month is all about renewal, growth, and joy. Fittingly, the May birth flower duo – lily of the valley or hawthorn – perfectly embodies this sense of vitality and hope. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you should know about these two blooms: their meaning, history, and even how to make the perfect spring bouquet for any occasion. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
What Is May’s Birth Flower?
As we have already mentioned, the third month of spring is associated with two stunning blooms: lily of the valley and hawthorn. Lily of the valley is known for its bell-shaped blossoms and distinct fragrance. It symbolizes sweetness, humility, and renewed happiness. Meanwhile, the hawthorn flower represents hope, love, and protection. Fun fact: It’s both a birth flower for May and one of the recognized birth month trees according to the Celtic Tree Zodiac.
Why Does May Have Two Birth Flowers?
It’s actually quite common for a month to have more than one birth flower. As for May, it has two blossoms because they each represent different aspects of the season. Lily of the valley captures the soft, graceful side of spring, while hawthorn embodies strength and endurance. Together, these blooms mirror the true nature of the month – both soft and strong, fragile and fierce.
Lily of the Valley Birth Flower
Delicate and fragrant, the lily of the valley is a beloved flower for May. Before we dive deeper into all the nitty-gritty of this bloom, here’s a quick question. Do you know what Queen Elizabeth II and Christian Dior have in common? The answer: they share the same favorite flower – the lily of the valley! So, let’s find out what makes this beauty so unique!
Meanings and Symbolism
The dainty, bell-shaped blossoms of Convallaria majalis symbolize purity, humility, and sweetness. The elegance and symbolism of this May birth month flower make it a popular choice for weddings. Just look up Kate Middleton’s or Grace Kelly’s bridal bouquets!
Now, let’s talk a bit about color symbolism. Confused? Well, lilies of the valley are indeed primarily white, but there are also pink cultivars! What’s more, each of these hues carries a different meaning. Here’s our breakdown:
- White: Purity, humility, and innocence.
- Pink: Romance and happiness.
These timeless blossoms make for perfect gifts for any occasion, be it a May birthday or a baby shower. For those looking for something more unique, we recommend the pink cultivar Convallaria majalis var. rosea.
History and Cultural Impact
From ancient times, Convallaria majalis has been revered across cultures. In France, the flower is a symbol of good luck, often given on May 1st in a celebration known as “La Fête du Muguet.” Revered for its fragrance, lilies of the valley have inspired many renowned perfumes, including the classic Diorissimo. Interestingly enough, their scent can’t be obtained naturally, so it must be replicated through synthetic methods.
Fun & Interesting Facts
Let’s take a break for some fun trivia:
- The bloom has been used in folk medicine to treat heart issues, though modern experts advise against this due to its toxicity.
- In 1976, this May bloom was chosen as the national flower of Finland.
- In Christian traditions, this perennial plant is also known as “Our Lady’s Tears.” said to have grown from the tears of the Virgin Mary at the crucifixion of Jesus.
Are Lily of the Valley Flowers Toxic?
It’s best to admire these blossoms from afar, as they are indeed toxic. All parts of the lily of the valley are dangerous if ingested. They contain cardiac glycosides, which can affect heart function. Therefore, we highly recommend keeping it out of reach from pets and children.
What Does the Smell of Lily of the Valley Mean?
The scent of the lily of the valley is a blend of sweet and fresh notes, often associated with spring. Some say it smells like a garden after rain. This timeless scent is also said to evoke feelings of joy and calm.
Want to grow these delicate beauties in your garden? Care for your lily of the valley with ease using PlantIn’s expert guidance.
Hawthorn Flower
Moving on to our next flower, and also May birth tree, the resilient hawthorn. Throughout history, this plant has been linked with the mystical and spiritual. Sounds intriguing? Then read on to find out more!
Meanings and Symbolism
Hawthorn, scientifically known as Crataegus, symbolizes protection, love, and hope. Its blossoms are known for their symbolism in folklore and tradition. Here’s what their colors represent:
- White: Protection and purity.
- Red: Passion and strength.
- Pink: Harmony and balance.
History and Cultural Impact
Hawthorn’s connection to May Day celebrations dates back to ancient times. In Celtic mythology, it was considered sacred, and people would hang its branches on doors to invite good fortune. The tree is also known as the “Faerie Tree.” People believed the tree to house fairies and spirits, hence the name. Today, it remains a symbol of spring festivities across Europe, particularly in the UK.
Is Hawthorn Plant Poisonous?
While the berries (haws) are edible and used in jellies and wines, the seeds inside contain compounds that can be toxic if consumed in large quantities. Thus, we recommend consuming them cautiously.
What Do Hawthorn Flowers Smell Like?
This May flower of the month has a subtle, slightly bitter scent with a hint of sweetness. It’s often compared to the smell of almonds or freshly cut grass. It may not be as delicate as the lily of the valley, but the scent has its charm, nonetheless.
Add some spring charm to your garden with hawthorn! Check out PlantIn’s detailed care plans for growing and maintaining this resilient tree.
Lily of the Valley and Hawthorn Growing Tips
Both May birth month flowers thrive in temperate climates, though their care needs differ slightly. Lily of the valley enjoys cool, shaded areas, while hawthorn prefers a sunny spot with well-drained soil. To grow either plant, you’ll need to:
- Water regularly: Keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering.
- Prune carefully: This keeps your hawthorn tree healthy and prevents overcrowding.
- Monitor for pests: These plants are prone to aphid infestations, so be vigilant.
How to Design Your Garden With May Birth Flowers
Creating a beautiful garden with both birth flowers for May is easy. Try planting lilies of the valley along shaded garden paths for a delicate touch. Hawthorn trees make excellent focal points for larger landscapes, adding height and charm to your outdoor space. When planning, consider mixing these flowers with other seasonal blooms like tulips and daffodils to create a vibrant, layered garden.
Floral Arrangement Ideas With Birth Blooms for May
Floral arrangements featuring May birthday flowers are perfect for weddings, birthdays, and other special occasions. You can create stunning bouquets with lilies of the valley paired with roses and peonies for a soft, romantic look. For a more rustic feel, combine hawthorn blossoms with lavender and thyme. Here are even more ideas:
- Bridal Bouquets: Lily of the valley offers elegance and a sweet fragrance.
- Seasonal Centerpieces: Combine hawthorn branches with other spring blooms.
- Personalized Gifts: Create bespoke arrangements for loved ones celebrating their May birthdays.
Which May Flower Is Right for Your Celebration?
When choosing between lily of the valley and hawthorn for a celebration, think about the message you want to convey. Are you looking for something soft, delicate, and sweet? Lily of the valley is your go-to. But if you’re aiming for a more robust, natural look, hawthorn is the better option.
Want to get started with your garden? PlantIn has everything you need to grow your own May birth flowers – plus expert advice to keep them thriving!
FAQ
Is Hawthorn a Tree or a Flower?
Tricky question! Actually, hawthorn is both. It’s a small deciduous tree or shrub that produces clusters of small, fragrant flowers in late spring.
What Is May’s Birth Flower Tattoo?
A tattoo featuring a lily of the valley or hawthorn blooms is a popular choice for individuals born in May. Both flowers carry deep meanings – from humility to protection – and can serve as beautiful reminders of your birth month.
Is Hawthorn a Cherry Blossom?
No, it’s not a cherry blossom. Though both produce flowers in the spring, hawthorn belongs to the Crataegus genus, while cherry blossoms are part of the Prunus genus.
Why Do the French Give Lily of the Valley?
The French tradition of giving lilies of the valley during the “La Fête du Muguet” holiday on May 1st symbolizes good luck and happiness. This practice dates back to 1561 when King Charles IX received the flower as a lucky charm.
Is Lily of the Valley Dior’s Favorite Flower?
Yes, this May month flower was Christian Dior’s favorite bloom. It inspired his designs and led to the creation of the famous Diorissimo perfume in 1956.
Need help with your plants? From botanist advice to customized care plans, PlantIn has everything you need to keep your garden flourishing. Celebrate May with its gorgeous flowers, and we’ll make sure they thrive for years to come!
Thank you for reading our guide till the end! What’s your favorite May birthday flower? Do you integrate them into your celebrations? Share all your stories in the comments! And don’t forget to share this guide with other flower lovers!
