The tradition of assigning a specific flower to each month dates back centuries, with origins in Roman and Victorian-era customs. These birth month flowers connect the time of year to distinct flora, each carrying symbolic meanings. The flowers often reflect the season’s peak bloom time and personality traits associated with the month. July is unique because it is commonly associated with two distinct flowers that embody the height of summer.
The Significance of the Larkspur
The Larkspur is widely recognized as the primary birth flower for July, known for its dramatic height and vibrant, densely packed blooms. This flower belongs to the genus Delphinium, part of the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). The name Delphinium comes from the Ancient Greek word for “dolphin,” reflecting the shape of the flower buds before they open, which resemble the marine mammal’s nose.
These plants are characterized by tall, erect spikes that can grow up to two meters high, creating a striking vertical element in summer gardens. The individual flowers are bilaterally symmetrical and feature a prominent backward-extending spur, which inspired the common name “Larkspur” after the claws of a lark. The overall symbolism centers on joy, goodwill, and an open heart, but the specific color refines the message.
The intense blue and purple varieties, which are the most common, symbolize dignity and grace; purple specifically represents first love or nobility. White Larkspurs are associated with purity, innocence, and remembrance, often used in commemorative bouquets. Pink flowers symbolize youthfulness, lightheartedness, and affection. These towering spikes are a classic symbol of midsummer, radiating the month’s energetic spirit.
The Alternative Flower: Water Lily
The Water Lily, or Nymphaea, is the alternative flower for July, presenting a complete contrast to the towering Larkspur. As an aquatic plant from the family Nymphaeaceae, it thrives in still bodies of water, where its large, rounded pads float on the surface. The roots anchor the plant in the mud, while the elegant, cup-shaped flowers emerge to rest serenely on the water’s surface.
The symbolism of the Water Lily is deeply spiritual, reflecting its unique life cycle of emerging clean from murky depths. This characteristic leads the flower to represent purity, tranquility, and inner strength. In various Eastern traditions, particularly Buddhism, the Water Lily holds deep significance, representing spiritual awakening and wisdom.
The white variety is the most common symbol of purity and innocence, while the blue Water Lily is linked to wisdom and calm. The daily cycle of the flower closing at night and re-emerging with the morning light reinforces its meaning of rebirth and optimism. Some cultural traditions favor the Water Lily over the Larkspur, preferring its symbolism of composed mindfulness over the Larkspur’s lively energy.