Full of sunlight and greenery, May is the last month of spring that always feels like summer. During this time, the world feels lighter, getting ready for the heat to come. If you were born during this time, you were gifted with two birth flowers, both expressing unique charm and symbolic richness that stand out among others. In this article, let’s delve into the secrets linked with the meaningful flowers of May: the gentle lily of the valley and the modest hawthorn. Discover when they appear across the UK, what feelings they express, and the ways to surprise someone with a meaningful composition.
What Are the May Birth Flowers?
Like spring itself, our options possess a tender, fleeting, beauty that sets them apart from March and June blooms. So, the first answer is the lily of the valley, adorned with miniature, ivory bells, is widely interpreted as the iconic birth flower for May. The second option is hawthorn, a puffy shrub with gentle white or pinkish blossoms. Both of these perennials belong to long-standing traditions and were chosen to represent the people who celebrate their birthdays this month.
Primary May Birth Flower: Lily of the Valley
Scientifically, it’s Convallaria majalis, a woodland perennial with arching stems and ivory blooms. Its scent is light yet lingering, fresh, and unmistakably spring-like. Though fragile in appearance, it possesses deep cultural roots and longstanding symbolism, primarily associated with the Christian tradition.
If you can’t find a fitting composition featuring this flower, don’t worry; the lily is a fitting alternative with a similar connotation. An arrangement with white or pinkish lilies, paired with sweet peas, offers an equally soft charm.
History
The lily of the valley is one of the most widely referenced specimens, especially in folklore, where it appears countless times throughout the centuries. In Christian belief, it’s presumed to have sprung from the ground where Virgin Mary wept; over time, it adopted the connotations of divine blessing and faithful devotion. In France, it’s customary to offer these blossom sprigs on May 1 to wish someone good luck and eternal prosperity.
Meaning and Symbolism
This May birth flower’s meaning might have potential alternatives, but the leading interpretation is affection, daintiness, and humbleness in the face of adversity. In other connotations, it denotes a return to joyful times. No matter its fragile look, it’s a resilient perennial that returns every spring, reinforcing its symbolism of hope.
Care Tips
Fresh lily of the valley prefers cool conditions and does best in shaded, air-ventilated rooms. If you were gifted a potted specimen, consider keeping it in a place with a higher humidity level. If caring for cut flowers, keep them away from heat sources and possible drafts.
Interesting Facts
- Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation arrangement famously featured this blossom; it’s believed to have been her favourite flower
- It’s seen in Christian iconography as a symbol of spiritual virtue and redemption
- Its scientific name has a straightforward translation: “Convallis” is “valley”, while “majalis” is “belonging to May”. This might be an allusion to the fact that these blooms start flowering in valleys during May
Secondary May Birth Flower: Hawthorn
Often seen growing along hedgerows, the hawthorn (or Crataegus in Latin) offers tiny, five-petalled flowers, usually snow-white, sometimes tinged with light or vivid pink. Its appearance may be modest, but its imagery and history run deep.
History
Another name for this shrub is ‘May tree’, which perfectly explains how it became associated with this period of the year. Throughout history, it has been given an essential role in Welsh, Irish, and Scottish folklore. It was once presumed to guard a household from the evil eye and negative influence if planted nearby. Medieval brides would often carry these blossoms as a sign of fertility and lasting love.
Meaning and Symbolism
Hawthorn symbolises longing, strength in protection, and merriment. It might also be interpreted as an assurance of spiritual and physical rejuvenation, hosting the optimistic spirit of a new season that is about to start. In the context of May birth month flowers, it speaks of silent, invisible strength and healing energy.
How to Care for Hawthorns
Hawthorns are hardy shrubs; even when cut, they tend to flourish longer than other flowers. When caring for a bouquet, it’s best to protect it from direct sunlight and drafts. Otherwise, they typically require minimal maintenance and reward you with long-lasting beauty. If dried or incorporated in seasonal wreaths, this perennial requires even less care.
Interesting Facts
- The hawthorn was mentioned in the UK literature as far back as 1597; it was referred to as ‘White-thorn’ due to its colours and protective spikes
- Its Old English name was ‘hagathorn’, possibly stemming from ‘haga’ – hedge – and ‘thorn’
- It’s an essential and powerful food source for pollinators and birds, supporting a large number of caterpillar species
How to Incorporate May Birth Flowers in Your Garden
With free garden space, both of the May blossoms we discussed can become wonderful additions, depending on how much soil you have available. For smaller gardens, consider opting for lily of the valley beneath trees or in shaded corners. An important note to remember: these perennials have a lingering scent, which could be irritating, especially for people with seasonal allergies. For larger gardens, a hawthorn tree or hedge can help add structure, fill up empty space, or even bring wildlife value if you’re planning to attract pollinators.
What Do May Flowers Say About Your Personality?
Those born in May are described as gentle yet resilient, emerging to stand firm against the troubles encountered, much like their respective blooms. Lily of the valley is most frequently attributed to those with inner calm and quiet resilience, while hawthorn is suited for the spirited and generous, ready to offer support or help to those around them.
What Are the Best May Birthday Flower Gifts?
While we have described very specific birth flowers for May so far, we advise introducing these traditional perennials to novel additions. For instance, lily of the valley is a wonder as a filler option, but it can also serve as the centre of attention when properly supplemented with freesia in pastel-toned posies. Hawthorns can look charming with peonies, bluebells, or in a rustic arrangement. Pair with spring-scented candles, botanical prints, or themed stationery for a complete package.
Now that you’ve learned a great deal about birth flowers for May, you can easily offer someone a one-of-a-kind, symbolic surprise with a floral arrangement. The perennials we discussed have timeless meanings and seasonal beauty, ideal for those born at the very heart of spring. Order a floral composition with Udora today and enjoy swift, reliable delivery straight to your recipient.
