You might be mistaken for thinking that the birth flowers for February are red roses or pink carnations because of Valentine’s, but babies born this month are celebrated with three flowers; violets, irises, and primroses.
Violets were first grown by the Ancient Greeks for medicines and wine. Victorians gifted them as a symbol to stay true and as a reminder of loyalty, whereas they have also been used to create love potions in Shakespeare and beyond. In the modern ages, this has evolved a little and they now tend to represent faithfulness and spiritual wisdom.
They are also edible flowers, and not just as Parma Violets! With their sweet flavour they’re perfect for topping cakes and sweet treats, freezing in ice cubes for cocktails, and can also be used to make syrups for sparkling water and lemonade.
Primroses are also edible, and come in a whole variety of colours to remind us that spring is well and truly on the way. They also symbolise young love so would also make a great alternative for Valentine’s instead of roses. With origins in Norse mythology and the goddess of love Freya, primroses can be found in reds, pinks, blues, creams, yellows and even multi-colours.
Similarly to primroses, irises stem from the Greek goddess and messenger for love, Iris. Irises represent eloquence, faith, wisdom, and hope. It conveys good communication and mutual understanding. In Japanese culture, irises are said to purify evil energies and symbolise purity.
Iris bouquets can be a perfect gift for parents, or as part of Mother’s Day arrangements, as they are also said to represent appreciation of the love and sacrifice parents make for their children.
All three are wonderful gifting flowers as they remind us that spring and summer are on the way, the days are getting longer and the evenings are getting lighter.