The tradition of birth flowers assigns a specific bloom to each month, offering a symbolic way to celebrate a birthday or mark a significant occasion. These floral emblems reflect the season’s mood and the character of those born within it. September is commonly represented by two distinct flowers: the enduring Aster and the ephemeral Morning Glory. Both convey thoughtful beauty, yet they carry very different messages.
The Aster: Symbolism and Varieties
The Aster, a daisy-like flower, takes its name from the Greek word for “star,” describing its radiating, spiky petals. It symbolizes enduring love, patience, and elegance. Blooming late in the season when other garden color fades, the Aster represents loyalty and unwavering affection. Asters are also associated with the 20th wedding anniversary, emphasizing long-lasting commitment.
These late-blooming perennials are found in numerous varieties, primarily displaying shades of purple, pink, and white. The color subtly shifts the message: purple asters signify wisdom and royalty, while white ones convey purity and innocence. Pink variations communicate sensitivity or gentle admiration. Asters belong to the large Asteraceae family and provide a food source for pollinators as autumn approaches.
The Morning Glory: Characteristics and Meaning
The Morning Glory, often considered the secondary September flower, contrasts with the Aster’s endurance. Characterized by trumpet-shaped blossoms and a fast-growing, vine-like nature, it rapidly climbs and covers structures. Its most distinctive trait is its daily blooming cycle: flowers unfurl with the rising sun and curl shut by the afternoon. This ephemeral quality is the source of the flower’s unique symbolism.
The fleeting beauty of the bloom reminds us to appreciate the present moment and the transient nature of life. It is associated with affection, renewal, and the spontaneity of fresh beginnings, as each flower lasts only a single day. This short-lived cycle has also been used historically to represent unrequited or temporary love. Morning Glories display rich colors, including shades of blue, purple, and magenta, during their morning appearance.
Gifting and Incorporating September Blooms
When selecting a gift, the two September flowers can be combined to create a layered message. The steadfast Aster pairs well with the delicate, climbing Morning Glory vine in a bouquet. This combination of perennial and ephemeral bloom represents the balance between enduring love and seizing the day.
Choosing the right color allows for personalization, such as selecting purple Asters to express admiration for wisdom and dignity. Incorporating these flowers into the garden is a direct way to honor a September birthday. Asters are easily planted as perennials for color that returns annually. Morning Glory is a rapid grower used to adorn fences or trellises, creating living decor. A mixed arrangement of both flowers serves as an elegant centerpiece for any September celebration.