The tradition of assigning a flower to each month of the year is an ancient practice. These monthly birth flowers carry historical and cultural significance, often reflecting the season in which they bloom. August is uniquely represented by two distinct flowers, the Gladiolus and the Poppy. Both possess rich histories and symbolism, making them a powerful pair for this late summer period.
The Gladiolus Flower
The Gladiolus is known for its dramatic, towering stature and is often referred to as the “sword lily.” This name comes from its Latin root, gladius, meaning “little sword,” referencing its blade-like foliage. The plant is characterized by a tall, rigid spike, with numerous funnel-shaped flowers blooming sequentially along the stem.
These flowers offer an impressive spectrum of color, ranging from soft pastels to vibrant hues of deep red, purple, and orange. Belonging to the Iridaceae family, some cultivars can reach heights of up to four feet. While many modern hybrids exist, the plant’s origins are primarily traced back to South Africa, the Mediterranean region, and Eurasia.
The Poppy Flower
The Poppy, belonging to the genus Papaver, presents a striking contrast to the Gladiolus with its delicate, often crinkled petals and shorter, more slender stems. Its blooms typically feature four to six large, papery petals surrounding a prominent central stamen cluster. Flower sizes vary, with some varieties producing blooms up to six inches across.
The colors are visually distinct, often appearing in bright reds, pure whites, and sunny yellows, depending on the species. Varieties include the red corn poppy (Papaver rhoeas) and the larger opium poppy (Papaver somniferum). Historically, the poppy has been cultivated since ancient times, particularly in the Mediterranean Basin, and was recognized for the soothing properties found within its milky sap.
Meaning and Significance
The distinct physical attributes of the Gladiolus and the Poppy directly influence the meanings they have carried through history.
Gladiolus Symbolism
The Gladiolus, with its upright, firm growth habit, traditionally conveys strength of character and moral integrity. Its association with Roman gladiators, who were sometimes honored with the flowers, solidified its meaning of honor and steadfastness. In the Victorian language of flowers, the Gladiolus also symbolized infatuation, suggesting its beauty could “pierce the heart.” This symbolism of intense feeling complements its vertical form, representing an unwavering declaration of affection.
Poppy Symbolism
The Poppy’s symbolism is tied to its ancient connection with sleep and its presence on battlefields. Its historical use as a source of mild sedative properties led to its association with sleep and consolation. Ancient Greek mythology linked the flower to Morpheus, the god of dreams, emphasizing its calming effects. More recently, the red poppy became a widely recognized emblem of remembrance and sacrifice for fallen soldiers following World War I. This meaning arose because resilient red corn poppies were among the first plants to grow in the disturbed soil of the battlefields.