Eager to discover what flower symbolises October? The answer awaits you in today’s article! Join us as we delve into the significance of the blooms associated with this time of year and their joyous hues, reveal fascinating facts about these plants, and explore the captivating selection of florals available in October in the UK.
What Are the October Birth Flowers?
The October birth flowers are the joyful marigold and the whimsical cosmos. Their warm, vivid colours evoke sentiments of comfort and delightful reverie, beautifully mirroring the spirit of this enchanting season.
The First October Birth Flower: Marigold
Hailing from the Americas, these eye-catching flowers are adored globally for their striking aesthetic and minimal upkeep requirements. With heights ranging from 15 cm to 120 cm based on the type, they boast lush, textured blooms that emit a recognisable and intense aroma.
History
Marigolds possess an illustrious heritage, deeply entrenched in antiquity. The Aztec civilisation venerated these blooms, utilising their healing properties and culinary applications, and incorporating them into sacred rituals. They have held profound meaning in many cultural and spiritual practices, like Mexico’s Day of the Dead, where these flowers are arranged as vibrant, scented tributes to honour those who have passed. Moreover, they are cherished among gardening enthusiasts across the globe for their joyful hues and robustness, bringing warmth and charm to both intimate spaces and expansive landscapes.
Meaning
The meaning of this October birth flower is versatile: it epitomises various notions, such as the fervour of affection and deep emotions, hopefulness and faith in a brighter tomorrow, affluence, and accomplishment. Furthermore, this resplendent bloom embodies originality and boundless vitality, encouraging a spirit of enthusiasm and a lively approach to life's challenges and opportunities.
Colour Symbolism
These plants feature petals of mesmerising shades such as brilliant orange, striking red, sunny yellow, shimmering copper and gold, tender white, or any combination of those colours. Yellow blooms are linked with bliss and exuberance, orange flowers radiate dynamic energy and fervent emotions, while red petals encapsulate the essence of romance and desire.
Care Tips
The ideal moment to purchase or harvest marigolds is when they are fully opened. Trim approximately 1.3 cm from the stems and remove the leaves from them, to help tone down their potent aroma. Arrange the blooms in warm water blended with floral solution and let them rest in a cool, dim area. Monitor the water daily, refilling it as needed, and most importantly, take a moment to savour their presence!
Interesting Facts
- Within the culture of India, the tradition of gifting an adorned with marigolds was seen as a meaningful expression of camaraderie and a heartfelt gesture that represented the connection between friends.
- In the past, gardeners held the belief that the intense fragrance of these plants suggested they were toxic.
- Marigolds were employed to promote the healing of skin lesions and assist in recovering from minor injuries, thanks to their natural properties that prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
When Are Marigolds in Season in the UK?
Most varieties flourish in the inviting glow of early summer, exhibiting their flamboyant petals as they bask in the nurturing embrace of tender rays. This beauty endures until the chill of late autumn that gently brings an end to their stunning display.
The Second October Flower of the Month: Cosmos
Originating from the tropical and subtropical areas of North and South America, these plants are distinguished by their graceful stems, feathery foliage, and blooms that resemble daisies. They can reach heights spanning from 30 to 180 cm, varying with the specific type.
Meaning
Cosmos blooms epitomise the concepts of placidity, equilibrium, and concord. Moreover, these gentle flowers are a representation of unwavering faithfulness, endearing simplicity, and the inherent virtue found in embracing life’s uncomplicated beauty.
History
The bloom’s name stems from a Greek word that translates to ‘order’ or ‘harmony,’ elegantly reflecting its sophisticated nature. In its native regions, the plant was revered as a hallowed link connecting the earthly realm to the divine, serving as a vessel for conveying prayers, messages, and blessings. As the 18th century drew to a close, the cosmos found its way to Europe, rapidly establishing itself as a favoured addition for gardens.
Colour Symbolism
Cosmos flowers unfold in a spectrum of charming shades. Petals in tender white embody abiding loyalty in affectionate bonds, while pink blooms express sweetness and grace. Flowers in luminous yellow radiate a joyful spirit of camaraderie. The majestic purple cosmos epitomises the concepts of resilience, enigma, and dignity, while its amber-orange counterpart is a representation of triumph. The red and chocolate blooms capture deep commitment and adoration.
Care Tips
With their fleeting allure, it’s best to purchase these flowers shortly before your significant moment to ensure their vibrancy. The blooms are quite fragile, and the stems may intertwine easily, so treat your bouquet with tenderness and consideration. Trim about 2 cm from the bottom of each stem, then set them directly in water mixed with floral nourishment.
Interesting Facts
- Cosmos flower petals can serve as decorative accents in culinary dishes or be steeped in teas for added flavour.
- These blooms are celebrated for drawing a diverse array of pollinators, contributing to the health and vitality of the ecosystem.
- These refined plants are linked to the shared joys and challenges of a growing relationship, making it a meaningful present for the second year of marriage.
When Are Cosmos Flowers in Season in the UK?
These enchanting flowers begin to bloom in July, transforming landscapes with their exquisite hues. They often persist until the first chill, allowing their unpretentious elegance to adorn the cooler autumn days.
What do October flowers say about your personality?
You have a natural way of making others feel at ease, creating an atmosphere filled with lightheartedness and comfort. Your strong-willed nature stems from your deep sense of purpose, never wavering from what truly matters to you. Even in tough times, you shine through with resilience, always finding a reason to smile and share your light with those around you.
October Birth Month Flower Tattoos for Self-Expression
The marigold and cosmos motifs in tattoos intertwine the splendour of nature with personal meaning and artistic depth. Pair them with graceful geometric patterns, celestial symbols such as the moon and stars, or whimsical elements like birds, feathers, or butterflies for a design that evokes serenity, a sense of balance, and a celebration of life.
What Are the Best Gifts and Flowers for October’s Birthday?
A lovely bouquet that highlights the colourful blooms associated with this season presents a splendid selection. When complemented by scrumptious treats like delightful confectionery, delectable bakery goods, fragrant teas, or robust coffees the gift unfolds into a magnificent expression of mindful affection.
