The practice of assigning a specific flower to each month of the year is an enduring tradition, with roots tracing back to floriography, the Victorian language of flowers. This custom connects a person’s birth month with a particular bloom, imbuing it with special characteristics and symbolic meaning.
The Primary December Birth Flower
The primary floral symbol for December is the Narcissus, specifically the Paperwhite variety, scientifically known as Narcissus papyraceus. This delicate bulbous plant is native to the Mediterranean region, where it naturally blooms during the winter months, distinguishing it from the spring-blooming daffodils in the same genus. The Paperwhite is characterized by its clusters of small, pure white flowers borne on slender stems, which are highly valued for their strong, musky fragrance.
The symbolism of the Paperwhite Narcissus is centered on renewal, purity, and affection. In the language of flowers, gifting this bloom conveys respect and faithfulness, carrying the message that the recipient is “the only one.” Because it can be easily forced to bloom indoors during the year’s darkest time, the narcissus has also become a representation of hope and new beginnings.
The Second December Symbol
December is unique in that it is also commonly associated with a second, non-flowering plant: Holly, identified by the botanical name Ilex aquifolium. Holly is a traditional winter evergreen, instantly recognizable by its glossy, dark green leaves, which often possess sharp, spiny edges, and its vibrant red berries. This plant is included as a December symbol due to its prominence during the winter solstice and its extensive use in seasonal celebrations.
The robust nature of Holly allows its symbolism to focus on enduring qualities like protection, defense, and good fortune. Ancient cultures revered it for its ability to remain green when other foliage had died back, leading to associations with eternal life and vitality. The bright red berries are widely seen as symbols of prosperity and cheer, providing a striking contrast to the winter landscape.
The History of December’s Dual Symbolism
The tradition of assigning two distinct plants to the month of December stems from a combination of seasonal availability and differing historical practices. In December, this contrast is starkly represented by the indoor, delicate Paperwhite and the hardy, outdoor Holly.
Early European traditions, including those of the Celts and Romans, heavily favored evergreens like Holly for their protective qualities and their association with the winter solstice celebration of Saturnalia. Separately, the Narcissus, native to the Mediterranean, was historically cultivated for its ability to bloom in winter, making it a natural choice for a winter flower in regions where it thrived. The dual recognition synthesizes these traditions, pairing the Narcissus’s message of hope and new beginnings with Holly’s representation of resilience and domestic warmth.