Curious about what flower represents December? The answer awaits in today’s article! Keep reading to explore the rich symbolism behind these stunning blooms and uncover fascinating facts about them. Moreover, we’ll share some inspiring gift ideas for those looking to delight a dear one celebrating a birthday this month. Let’s get started!
What are the December birth flowers?
This frosty month features two enchanting blooms: the graceful narcissus and the joyous holly. Together, these mesmerising flowers beautifully capture the essence of the season’s tranquil beauty and festive allure.
If any of these blooms prove challenging to find, you can always opt for other bouquets that elegantly reflect the holiday spirit and winter’s serenity. The Flowwow marketplace offers a wide selection that is bound to impress.
The first December birth flower: Narcissus
These charming plants grow to heights of 20 to 50 cm, depending on the variety, and display easily recognisable trumpet-shaped coronas surrounded by delicate petals in captivating shades of white, yellow, and orange. Known for their resilience, they thrive in a variety of conditions, making them a reliable and lovely enhancement to any garden setting.
Meaning
The embodiment of inner transformation, hope, and vitality is the sophisticated narcissus. The meaning of this December flower also encompasses the themes of fresh beginnings and the pursuit of new opportunities. Furthermore, this bloom epitomises a spark of original ideas and the drive to create.
History
This graceful plant boasts a rich history, with its earliest records dating back to 300 BC. Hailing from the Mediterranean, it made its way to Britain thanks to the Romans, who attributed curative properties to it. From the 17th century onwards, the flower gradually became a beloved addition to gardens, valued for its simple yet striking appearance.
Forcing paperwhites in winter
Growing paperwhites indoors during winter is a simple, rewarding way to enjoy the fragrant clusters of gentle blooms characteristic of this variety of narcissus.
- Pick a container about 10 cm deep and fill it with a damp growing medium, leaving about 5 cm of space at the top.
- Place the bulbs in with their tips facing upwards, then add more soil until they are halfway covered.
- To stimulate root growth, set the container in a cool, dark place for 7 to 10 days, keeping the soil slightly moist.
- Once the shoots reach 5-8 cm, move the paperwhites to a warmer, sunnier location. In just 3-4 weeks, the bulbs will bloom beautifully!
Interesting facts
- These plants come in thousands of distinct types, with differences in flower colour, size, and blooming times.
- Considering adding narcissi to your bouquet along with other flowers? Be cautious – their sap can release toxins that cause other flowers to wilt rapidly.
- In China, the narcissus is cherished as a symbol of auspiciousness, while in Japanese culture, it embodies the notions of mirth and bliss.
- The flower is a refined emblem of the 10th anniversary of marriage.
When are narcissi in season in the UK?
Narcissi typically reach full bloom during the bright, mild days of March, and are at their peak in April. However, paperwhites can flower as early as December, enriching the charm of the festive season with their exquisite presence.
The second birth flower for December: Holly
The vivid holly, admired for its whimsical charm, is another plant representing this frosty month. Also recognised by its botanical name Ilex, this hardy evergreen shrub or tree is notable for its spiky, glossy leaves and vibrant scarlet berries, which enliven snow-dusted gardens and landscapes during the peaceful winter season.
Meaning
Across various traditions, this captivating plant has long been cherished for its perceived power to bestow good fortune and guard against adversity. Its eye-catching berries epitomise vitality and effervescent energy, while its evergreen foliage embodies the resilience of life, persisting through the harshest, darkest times.
History
For centuries, holly has held a prominent place in numerous cultures. The Romans regarded it as an auspicious plant, incorporating it extensively into their Saturnalia festivities. Revered by the Celts as a symbol of fertility and a safeguard against malevolent forces, this enchanting plant later found its place in Christian tradition, becoming a staple in festive decorations.
Care tips
- Keep your bouquet vibrant and lively by trimming the stems at an angle and slightly crushing the cut ends before setting the branches in cool, clean water.
- Avoid placing the holly display near fireplaces, direct sunlight, or radiators to prevent it from drying out quickly.
- A light misting every two days will help preserve its freshness and charm.
Interesting facts
- This plant is a true longevity champion, thriving for up to 3 centuries!
- In the language of flowers, it stands for joy and positivity — just right for the holidays!
- The wood of holly trees is tough and durable, making it ideal for detailed carving and intricate inlay projects.
- Tempting as they may seem, the plant’s berries are poisonous.
When is the holly in bloom in the UK?
Small and delicate, the blooms of this plant typically appear in shades of white, gracing the landscape from late spring to early summer. After pollination, they transform into adorable red berries, which can remain on the branches throughout the winter months.
Poinsettia: Is it among birth flowers for December?
The radiant poinsettia is sometimes regarded as the third birth flower for this chilly month. The vivid red and emerald green hues of this plant create a festive display, while its symbolic association with the Star of Bethlehem enriches its connection to this special time of year. Moreover, this flower embodies the notions of kindness, elation, and prosperity.
December flowers in tattoo designs
All December birth flowers share a common thread of hope, cheerfulness, and positivity in their symbolism. Captured in tattoos, they offer a timeless reminder of appreciating life’s small joys, trusting in the promise of tomorrow, and nurturing inner peace.
What are the best gifts and flowers for December birthdays?
Undeniably, you can never go wrong with choosing the birth flowers of the month. Additionally, elegant winter bouquets, featuring lovely elements such as cosy cotton stems, bright hypericum, and textured pine cones, among others, are also a fantastic choice. And if you’re searching for something timeless, a piece of jewellery adorned with the month’s birthstone makes a stunning present. In December, choose from the refined tanzanite, the sparkling zircon, the crystal-clear blue topaz, and the mesmerising turquoise for a gift that truly shines.
