Birth Flowers Tattoo: Meaning, Placement, and Inspiration
Are you thinking of getting a tattoo that holds a special meaning? Birth flower tattoos are a great way to add a personal touch to your ink. Birth flowers have been around for over 200 years and are assigned to specific months to symbolize them. Similar to Zodiac signs, birth flowers are attributed to specific characteristics and personality traits.
The June birthday flower, the rose, is particularly rich in meaning. Red roses symbolize pure expressions of true love, while yellow roses represent true friendship. Many people follow their birth month’s gemstone and assigned flower. Birth flower tattoos can be customized by adding animals, geometric patterns, mandalas, evil eyes, and more. If you’re looking for inspiration for your birthday flower tattoo design, check out our design guide and best examples below.
Every Tattoo Has A Story – How Did Birth Flowers Came To Be?
Tattoos are a form of self-expression and can hold great meaning to the person wearing them. Birth flower tattoos have become increasingly popular, as they represent a unique way to celebrate one’s birth month. But where did the concept of birth flowers come from?
The language of flowers, also known as floriography, has been used for centuries to communicate hidden messages through the use of floral arrangements. Ancient cultures such as the Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and Chinese all had their own assignment of meanings to certain flowers.
The concept of birth flowers began in Turkey during the 17th century and became popular during the Victorian era of the mid-19th century. During this time, it was not considered appropriate to express emotions openly, so people used flower bouquets to communicate secret messages to one another.
In the late 19th century, sunflowers became very fashionable due to their meaning of happiness, joy, and longevity. The intense love for flowers during the Victorian era led to the coining of the term “birth flowers,” and its symbology became more and more used.
Nowadays, birth flower references have found their fit in the tattoo culture, making them a common symbol for tattoos for women to reference family. It’s also a common addition to men’s tattoos, too, for the same reason.
Here is a table that lists the birth flowers for each month, their meanings, and their symbols:
| Month | Birth Flower | Meaning | Symbol |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Snowdrop | Rebirth, Purity, Peaceful Life | Hope |
| February | Violet | Faithfulness, Humility, Chastity | Modesty |
| March | Daffodil | Rebirth, New Beginnings, Prosperity | Respect |
| April | Sweet Pea | Innocence, Blissful Pleasure | Gratitude |
| May | Lily of the Valley | Humility, Sweetness, Return of Happiness | Happiness |
| June | Rose | Love, Gratitude, Appreciation | Passion |
| July | Larkspur | Levity, Lightness, Fickleness | Laughter |
| August | Gladiolus | Strength, Moral Integrity | Sincerity |
| September | Aster | Love, Faith, Wisdom | Patience |
| October | Marigold | Grace, Warmth, Creativity | Passion |
| November | Chrysanthemum | Joy, Optimism, Longevity | Friendship |
| December | Narcissus | Respect, Good Fortune, Hope | Self-Esteem |
January: Carnation, Snowdrop
January is the month of carnations and snowdrops. Carnations are also known as Gillyflowers and are a symbol of love, fascination, and distinction. They are commonly worn or gifted on Mother’s day, thanks to their meaning of love. Carnations come in a variety of colors, and each shade bears a different meaning. For instance, red carnations symbolize love, white carnations symbolize purity, and pink carnations symbolize gratitude.
Snowdrops, on the other hand, are a common touch of spring in snow-covered backyards and fields. According to the Bible, an angel created snowdrops from snowflakes to give Adam and Eve hope to survive the seemingly never-ending harsh winter in the Garden of Eden. These tiny white flowers have their own little heating system, allowing them to melt the snow around them and grow. As such, hope and strength are the main symbols of snowdrops.
If you’re looking to get a tattoo that symbolizes your January birth, consider getting a carnation or snowdrop tattoo. A carnation tattoo can be personalized to suit your personality, thanks to the variety of colors available. A snowdrop tattoo, on the other hand, can symbolize hope and strength, making it an excellent option for those who have overcome adversity.
Here are some interesting facts about carnations and snowdrops that you might not know:
- Carnations are the birth flower for January.
- Snowdrops are also known as Galanthus.
- In the language of flowers, carnations symbolize fascination, distinction, and love.
- Snowdrops are the first flowers to bloom after winter.
- Carnations have been cultivated for over 2,000 years.
- Snowdrops are native to Europe and Asia.
February: Violet, Primrose, Iris
February is the month of love, and what better way to celebrate it than with the February birth flowers: violet, primrose, and iris. Each of these flowers has a unique symbolism that makes them perfect for the month of love.
The violet flower is a delicate, purple flower that symbolizes faithfulness, humility, and chastity. In old English, it was known as “heartease,” further connecting it with love and pure emotions. The Victorian era associated the gift of violets with the message “I’ll always be true.” This makes it a perfect flower to gift to a loved one on Valentine’s Day.
Primrose is another flower that is perfect for the month of love. Its symbolism ties it deep with February, as the message it conveys is that you cannot live without someone. This colorful perennial of European origin blooms as soon as winter retreats, making it a perfect flower for this time of the year. Primroses will multiply each year if given a little shade and moist soil.
The iris flower is a beautiful purple flower named after a Greek goddess. It represented the connection between heaven and earth, which is why it was often planted on graves. During the Middle Ages, it became the symbol of the French monarchy as the fleur-de-lis. People born in February are said to have the same characteristics as the iris: wisdom, faith, and valor.
If you’re looking for a unique and meaningful tattoo, consider getting a February birth flower tattoo. The February birth flowers – violet, primrose, and iris – can be interpreted in various artistic styles, each lending a unique touch to the design. You can capture the intricate details of the flowers for a lifelike representation or use a watercolor wash for a dreamy effect.
March: Daffodil
March is the month of renewal and new beginnings, and daffodils are the perfect representation of this. Also known as jonquil or narcissus, this flower is a symbol of friendship and happiness. Daffodils come in a variety of bright colors, including white, yellow, pink, blue, and orange.
In some parts of the world, daffodils are associated with egoism and conceit due to the mythological character of Narcissus. However, this same story also gives the flower a meaning of rebirth and new beginnings. It’s no wonder that daffodils are the first to bloom after winter, signifying the start of nicer weather.
If you’re looking for a meaningful tattoo, consider getting a daffodil tattoo. Daffodils are the birth flower for March and symbolize hope, renewal, growth, and resilience. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Placement: A small daffodil tattoo on your wrist or ankle can be discreet, while a larger design on your back or chest can be more of a statement.
- Color: Daffodils are typically yellow or white, but they come in many shades. Consider incorporating your favorite color into your tattoo design.
- Style: Daffodil tattoos can be simple and elegant or intricate and colorful. Choose a style that speaks to you and reflects your personality.
April: Sweet Pea, Daisy
April is the month of new beginnings and is represented by two beautiful flowers, the sweet pea and the daisy. The sweet pea is known for its range of soft colors that symbolize the gentle weather of spring. It is also associated with feelings of pleasure and goodbyes. The Victorians used it as a part of bouquets to convey gratefulness.
On the other hand, daisies are April’s birth flower and one of the most well-known symbols of purity and chastity. However, it is not just a symbol of innocence, but also of secrecy. Its name, “day’s eyes,” comes from the fact that its petals only open during the day and close at night.
Daisies are said to represent qualities such as purity, all-conquering love, innocence, and even a childlike playfulness. These qualities are fitting for those born under the sign of Aries, who are known for their happy-go-lucky, youthful, caring, energetic, and intensely passionate nature.
Both sweet peas and daisies make for excellent tattoo designs due to their vibrant colors and fascinating designs. Here are some ideas for incorporating these flowers into your tattoo:
- Sweet Pea and Daisy Wreath: A wreath of sweet peas and daisies is a beautiful tattoo design that represents the essence of spring.
- Sweet Pea and Daisy Bouquet: A bouquet of sweet peas and daisies is a great way to represent gratitude and new beginnings.
- Sweet Pea and Daisy Vine: A vine of sweet peas and daisies is a great tattoo design that represents growth and renewal.
May: Lily of the Valley
May is the month of the Lily of the Valley flower. This delicate flower has a sweet fragrance, and its white bell-shaped petals signify humility and sweetness. In Victorian times, the Lily of the Valley was often given to convey the romantic message “you have made my life complete.”
Did you know that the Lily of the Valley is poisonous? Despite this, it is still a popular flower for May birth flower tattoos. If you’re considering getting a May birth flower tattoo, you might want to consider the unique dot work flower design or the black and white Lily of the Valley tattoo.
The blooming of the Lily of the Valley has been associated with numerous mythical and religious stories throughout history. One of the most famous stories is that the Lily fell in love with the singing of a nightingale and only bloomed when it heard its song, which it sang only in the month of May.
Here are some quick facts about Lily of the Valley:
- Flower color: White
- Symbolizes: Humility and sweetness
- Birth flower for: May
- Poisonous: Yes
- Popular tattoo designs: Dot work flower design, black and white Lily of the Valley tattoo
Remember to always do your research before getting a tattoo, and choose a design that is meaningful to you.
June: Rose
If you were born in June, your birth flower is the rose. Roses are famous for their association with love, romance, and passion, and these meanings pour into the birth month as well. In history and culture, roses have played an immense role in some of the greatest events that molded the very nature of humanity during a particular period. These gorgeous, elegant flowers come in a whole palette of colors, each bearing their own special meaning. Red roses, for example, symbolize love and romance.
July: Larkspur (Delphinium)
If you’re looking for a flower that symbolizes transformation and adventure, then Larkspur is the perfect choice. As the July birth flower, Larkspur is known for its tall, elongate form that symbolizes openness of heart to the world.
The name “delphinium” comes from the Greek word “delphis,” which means “dolphin.” The conical shape of the flower is said to resemble the nose of a dolphin. This sea connection is associated with broad horizons, potential, and a better future.
Gifting someone a Larkspur flower is a message to encourage them to rediscover the beauty of life and adventure. If you’re considering a tattoo, the Larkspur flower is a popular choice for July birth flower tattoos. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Larkspur hand tattoo
- Colorful July birth flower tattoo
- Back of leg flower design
- Fine line Larkspur July flower tattoo
Each color of Larkspur flower has its own unique symbolism. For example, white Larkspur symbolizes purity, innocence, and love, while purple Larkspur stands for admiration and heartfelt emotions. Whatever your choice, a Larkspur tattoo is a beautiful way to celebrate your July birthday.
August: Gladiolus, Poppy
August is a month of vibrant colors and deep meanings, and its birth flowers, gladiolus and poppy, reflect this perfectly. Gladiolus, with its tall and colorful blooms in shades of red, pink, white, yellow, and orange, is a symbol of strength and character. Its Latin name, which means “sword,” is a nod to its historical use by Greek soldiers as a protective charm in battle.
Poppy, on the other hand, is a delicate flower with a deep symbolism. Its gentle red petals represent sleep, peace, and even death. Poppy is connected to opium, which is produced from it, and the bloody red color of the flower symbolizes death and eternal sleep when placed on tombstones.
Both gladiolus and poppy make for beautiful and meaningful tattoos, especially for those born in August. Whether you choose to showcase strength and character with a gladiolus tattoo or to honor the delicate balance of life and death with a poppy tattoo, these birth flowers are sure to make a statement.
September: Aster
If you are born in September, then the aster flower is your birth flower. This colorful, daisy-like flower is also known as the September flower. The Greek word for star is the origin of the name aster. The aster flower is a symbol of love, faith, wisdom, and color.
According to Greek folklore, the aster flower was created by the goddess Astraea. The star-shaped flower was created from her tears, which gives it the symbolism of love and undying devotion. The different colors of the aster flowers also represent different emotions and feelings. For instance, purple asters signify royalty and wisdom, white asters represent purity and innocence, red asters symbolize undying devotion, and pink asters act as a symbol of love and sensitivity.
If you are looking for a tattoo idea, the aster flower is a great choice. There are many designs to choose from, including traditional aster flower tattoo designs that are full of color and detailed designs. You can also opt for a watercolor September birth tattoo or a bold September aster design. A butterfly tattoo with an aster flower is also a popular choice.
October: Marigold
Marigold, also known as Calendula, is the flower associated with the month of October. In Eastern cultures, such as the Hindu culture, Marigold is a main flower of festivities like Diwali. However, in Anglo-Saxon culture, Marigold is associated with sorrow and sympathy, possibly due to its original symbolic association with death, despair, and grief in Mexican traditions like the Day of the Dead. Victorian culture also linked it to the cruel treatment of a loved one. Nevertheless, Marigold has evolved to take up numerous other values, such as creative impetus, cheerfulness, and beauty, often associated with the warmth of the rising sun.
To summarize:
- Marigold is the flower associated with the month of October.
- In Eastern cultures, Marigold is used in festivals like Diwali.
- Anglo-Saxon culture associates Marigold with sorrow and sympathy.
- Victorian culture linked Marigold to cruel treatment of a loved one.
- Marigold represents creative impetus, cheerfulness, and beauty, often associated with the warmth of the rising sun.
November: Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum is the November birth flower, symbolizing cheerfulness and love. But did you know that in Eastern culture, chrysanthemums are celebrated for much more than just their beauty?
In China, chrysanthemums are believed to bring happiness and laughter into the house, and represent long life and vigor. It is a preferred gift for the elderly, and is even used in Feng Shui practices.
In Japan, there is an entire festival dedicated to the blooming of chrysanthemums, known as the “Festival of Happiness”. The Emperor loved the flower so much that he adopted it as his official seal.
Moreover, the way this flower systematically unfolds its petals is seen as a sign of immense perfection, which is connected to the perfection that the Japanese people strive for in their everyday lives.
If you’re looking for a tattoo that represents November, a chrysanthemum tattoo is a great choice. It can be a colorful thigh tattoo, a yellow shoulder tattoo, or even a chest piece. You can also combine it with other November birth flowers like the poppy, peony, or aster to create a unique design.
December: Holly, Poinsettia
If you are looking for a custom birth flower tattoo design for the month of December, you have two options to choose from – holly and poinsettia.
Holly
Holly is the first December flower that symbolizes domestic happiness, defense, and protection. Despite being a poisonous berry, holly is known for its ability to protect the entire plant with its venom. It is also believed to protect from thunder, lightning, and witchcraft.
Poinsettia
Poinsettia is the more commonly known December birth flower, and it is well-connected with Christmas. This flower is said to symbolize good cheer, success, and wishes of mirth and celebration. In ancient Aztec culture, poinsettias were seen as symbols of purity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular birth flower tattoo designs for women?
There are numerous popular birth flower tattoo designs for women, including roses for June, lilies for May, and violets for February. Other popular options include daisies for April, sunflowers for August, and chrysanthemums for November. These designs can be customized to fit your personal style and preferences.
How can I find the perfect birth flower tattoo design for me?
When looking for the perfect birth flower tattoo design, consider your personal style and the meanings behind different flowers. Research different designs online and in tattoo shops, and don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from friends or family. You can also work with a tattoo artist to create a custom design that incorporates your birth flower and other elements that are meaningful to you.
What are the meanings behind different birth flower tattoos?
Each birth flower has its own unique meaning and symbolism. For example, roses represent love and passion, while daisies symbolize innocence and purity. Sunflowers represent loyalty and longevity, while lilies symbolize purity and devotion. Research the meanings behind different birth flowers to find one that resonates with you.
Can you suggest some small birth flower tattoo ideas?
If you’re looking for a small birth flower tattoo, consider a minimalist design that incorporates your birth flower in a small and subtle way. For example, you could get a tiny flower tattooed on your wrist, ankle, or behind your ear. Other small design ideas include a flower outline, a single petal, or a flower with a small word or phrase.
How do I incorporate a loved one’s name into a birth flower tattoo?
If you want to incorporate a loved one’s name into a birth flower tattoo, consider adding their name in a small and subtle way. For example, you could get their name tattooed in a small font underneath the flower. Alternatively, you could get a tattoo of multiple flowers, each one representing a different loved one.
What’s the significance of having multiple birth flowers for a single month?
Some months have multiple birth flowers, each with their own unique meanings and symbolism. Having multiple birth flowers for a single month allows you to choose a flower that resonates with you the most. It can also represent different aspects of your personality or different people in your life who share the same birth month.
