May Birth Flowers: A List of Birthday Flowers and Their Meanings

Birth flowers are specific flowers and their meanings assigned to each day of the year.
For a loved one's birthday, it's wonderful to give a bouquet or floral arrangement based on the birth flower of that day, or its meaning and color.

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■ May 1st Birth Flower: Lily of the Valley

Lily of the Valley is a perennial plant of the Asparagaceae family that blooms white flowers.
Its flower meanings are "purity," "chastity," and "humility."
It is said that the Lily of the Valley originated from the tears shed by the Virgin Mary that fell to the earth when Christ was crucified.
In Europe, it was customary for brides in May to include lilies of the valley in their bouquets.

Other birth flowers for May 1st include "Edelweiss" and "Mitsubatsutsuji".
Edelweiss's flower meanings are "modest beauty," "nobility," "sublimity," "courage," "patience," "the emotion of first love," and "precious memories," and
Mitsubatsutsuji's flower meanings are "temperance," "restrained life," "peace," and "self-control."

■ May 2nd Birth Flower: Phlox

Phlox is characterized by small flowers gathering to form large flower heads.
Its flower meanings are "agreement," "unity," and "cooperation."
It is a staple in gardening and is recommended for beginners due to its hardiness and ease of cultivation.
You may often see these flowers in city flowerbeds, so they might be familiar.

Another birth flower for May 2nd is "Lily of the Valley".
Lily of the Valley's flower meanings are "purity," "chastity," and "humility."

■ May 3rd Birth Flower: Clematis

Clematis is a very popular flower for both flower arrangements and gardening.
The flower meanings of Clematis are "beauty of mind," "traveler's joy," and "strategy."
"Beauty of mind" comes from its large blooms, and "traveler's joy" comes from the fact that in ancient times, clematis bloomed at the entrance of inns welcoming travelers.

Other birth flowers for May 3rd include "Dandelion" and "Skunk Cabbage".
Dandelion's flower meanings are "oracle of love," "oracle," and "sincere love," and
Skunk Cabbage's flower meanings are "unchanging beauty" and "beautiful memories."

■ May 4th Birth Flower: Japanese Iris

The Japanese Iris is a representative flower of Japan's rainy season, characterized by its vibrant purple petals.
Its flower meanings are "good news," "gentle heart," "grace," and "spirit."
"Good news" is a flower meaning associated with the Iris family, including the Japanese Iris.
"Grace" comes from the characteristic drooping appearance of the Japanese Iris petals, and "spirit" comes from its use as a decorative flower for the Tango no Sekku (Boy's Day) festival.

Other birth flowers for May 4th include "Kerria," "Stokesia," "Miniature Rose," "Strawberry," and "Rhododendron molle".
Kerria's flower meanings are "dignity," "sublimity," and "good fortune,"
Stokesia's flower meanings are "reminiscence," "purity," "pure maiden," and "resilience,"
Miniature Rose's flower meanings are "special achievement," "endless love," and "unconscious beauty,"
Strawberry's flower meanings are "foresight," "respect and affection," "happy home," and "you make me happy,"
and Rhododendron molle's flower meanings are "burning passion" and "effort."

■ May 5th Birth Flower: Iris

Iris, a flower beloved in Japan since ancient times.
Iris's flower meanings are "hope," "good news," "those who believe shall be saved," "love," and "mysterious."
Iris flowers bloom from late April to mid-May.
The difference between Iris and Kakitsubata (rabbit-ear iris) is that Kakitsubata blooms by the water, while Iris blooms on land.

Another birth flower for May 5th is "Mimosa pudica".
Mimosa pudica's flower meanings are "delicate feelings," "sensitivity," "impressionable heart," "sensitive," and "humble."

■ May 6th Birth Flower: Gardenia

Gardenia flowers are highly regarded as auspicious in Europe and America.
The flower meanings of Gardenia are "I am very happy," "bringing joy," "refinement," and "grace."
In America, there is a tradition for men to give gardenia flowers to women at dance parties.
This is why the flower meaning "I am very happy" was given to it.

Other birth flowers for May 6th include "Bletilla," "Columbine," and "Iris tectorum".
Bletilla's flower meanings are "unchanging love," "unchanging love," "pleasant conversation," "let us not forget each other," "courage to suffer," "ominous premonition," and "fading love,"
Columbine's flower meanings are "determination," "folly," and "I will surely get it,"
and Iris tectorum's flower meanings are "rebellion," "many friends," and "acknowledge me."

■ May 7th Birth Flower: Statice

A flower that blooms in white, yellow, pink, and purple, characterized by a slightly papery texture.
Statice's flower meanings are "unchanging heart," "eternal immutability," and "unending memories."
These flower meanings come from the fact that statice maintains its unchanging beauty and color even when dried.

Other birth flowers for May 7th include "Magnolia" and "Styrax". Magnolia's flower meanings are "love for nature," "sublimity," "patience," "dignity," and "persistence," and
Styrax's flower meanings are "grandeur" and "purity."

■ May 8th Birth Flower: Yellow Water Lily

Water lily, a flower that floats on water. Many of its flower meanings are related to ancient Egypt.
The flower meanings of the yellow water lily are "gentleness," "trust," "faith," and "sweetness."
The flower meaning "faith" originates from its association as a symbol of the sun in ancient Egypt.
Also, the flower meanings "gentleness" and "sweetness" are derived from its cheerful yellow color.

Other birth flowers for May 8th include "Rhododendron" and "Bellflower".
Rhododendron's flower meanings are "dignity," "majesty," and "danger", and
Bellflower's flower meanings are "gratitude," "thank you," "sincerity," "precious person," and "pleasant chatter."

■ May 9th Birth Flower: Double-Flowered Cherry Blossom

Double-flowered cherry blossoms have many more petals than regular cherry blossoms, presenting a gorgeous appearance.
The flower meanings of double-flowered cherry blossoms are "intelligence," "grace," "rich education," and "good upbringing."
Since they bloom during the start of the academic year, flower meanings related to education such as "intelligence" and "rich education" have been attributed to them.
It is rare to find them as cut flowers, but if you do see them in a store, they are very special, so please consider buying them.

Other birth flowers for May 9th include "Clematis," "Paulownia," and "Clover".
Clematis's flower meanings are "beauty of mind," "traveler's joy," and "strategy", and
Paulownia's flower meaning is "nobility,"
and Clover's flower meanings are "promise," "good luck," "think of me," and "be mine."

■ May 10th Birth Flower: Iris

Iris, a flower beloved in Japan since ancient times.
Iris's flower meanings are "hope," "good news," "those who believe shall be saved," "love," and "mysterious."
Iris flowers bloom from late April to mid-May.
The difference between Iris and Kakitsubata (rabbit-ear iris) is that Kakitsubata blooms by the water, while Iris blooms on land.

Other birth flowers for May 10th include "Ageratum" and "Rabbit-ear Iris". Ageratum's flower meanings are "trust," "comfort," "peace," "honor," "gaining happiness," "eternal beauty," and "I await your reply," and
Rabbit-ear Iris's flower meanings are "happiness will surely come," "longing," and "nobility."

■ May 11th Birth Flower: Apple

Although apples are strongly associated with fruit, they also bear pretty flowers similar to cherry blossoms.
The flower meanings of apples are "preference," "chosen love," "liking," and "choice."
These flower meanings originate from the Greek myth of "The Judgment of Paris."
In this story, three goddesses competed for the title of the most beautiful goddess, and the goddess who promised "to bestow the most beautiful woman in the world as a bribe" was chosen.

Other birth flowers for May 11th include "Nasturtium," "Cornflower," "Dimorphotheca," and "White Tulip".
Nasturtium's flower meanings are "victory," "loyalty," "overcoming difficulties," "patriotism," "flame of love," and "fire of love",
Cornflower's flower meanings are "delicacy," "grace," "elegance," "trust," "bachelorhood," and "education,"
Dimorphotheca's flower meanings are "vitality," "wealth," and "abundance,"
and White Tulip's flower meaning is "new love."

■ May 12th Birth Flower: White Lilac

Lilac is a very popular flower for bridal arrangements, flower gifts, and cut flowers.
The flower meanings of white lilac are "youth," "innocence," and "joy of youth."
White lilac is an unmixed pure white, and its clean color symbolizes untouched youth and purity, which is the origin of its flower meanings.
It looks very stylish in a bouquet or flower arrangement.

Other birth flowers for May 12th include "Astilbe," "Thunbergia," "Red Carnation," and "Campanula".
Astilbe's flower meanings are "arrival of love," "freedom," "calm brightness," and "delicacy",
Thunbergia's flower meanings are "black eyes" and "beautiful eyes,"
Red Carnation's flower meanings are "mother's love," "deep love," and "emotion",
and Campanula's flower meanings are "gratitude," "sincere love," "empathy," "integrity," and "confessing feelings."

■ May 13th Birth Flower: Hawthorn

A plant that bears small flowers from May to June and bright red berries in autumn.
The flower meanings of hawthorn are "hope," "only one love," and "caution."
Hawthorn is called "Mayflower" in England and is said to bloom during the most enjoyable time of the year.
This is believed to be the origin of the flower meaning "hope."

Other flowers for May 13th include "California Poppy," "Japanese Iris," and "Boronia."
The California Poppy's flower meanings are "wealth," "success," "love with hope," "fulfill my wishes," and "listen to my plea."
The Japanese Iris's flower meanings are "happiness will surely come," "yearning," and "nobility."
The Boronia's flower meanings are "fragrance," "comforting," "impressive," and "responsive."

■ May 14th Birth Flower: Columbine

Columbine is a familiar flower to gardening enthusiasts, characterized by its many varieties.
The flower meanings of Columbine are "folly," "I will surely obtain it," "determination for victory," and "trembling with worry."
The meaning "folly" comes from the English name for columbine.
Columbine is read as "Columbine (like a dove)," and the name Columbine is that of a maiden who appears in commedia dell'arte.

Other flowers for May 14th include "Peony," "Iris," "Purple Columbine," and "Forget-me-not."
The flower meanings of Peony are "shyness," "bashfulness," "modesty," and "humility."
The flower meanings of Iris are "hope," "trusting heart," "message (love message)," "good news," "good tidings," and "wisdom."
The flower meanings of Purple Columbine are "determination for victory."
The flower meanings of Forget-me-not are "true love," "sincere love," and "don't forget me."

■ May 15th Birth Flower: Campanula

Campanula is a charming plant with bell-shaped flowers.
The flower meanings of Campanula are "gratitude," "sincere love," "sympathy," and "integrity."
The flower meanings originate from Greek mythology, where a fairy named Campanule was guarding golden apples.
Her life was taken by soldiers who tried to steal the apples.
The goddess Flora, feeling pity for the fairy's death, transformed her into a bell-shaped flower, which is the origin of the story.

Other flowers for May 15th include "Houttuynia cordata" and "Pink Carnation."
The flower meanings of Houttuynia cordata are "white remembrance," "wildness," and "self-sacrifice."
The flower meanings of Pink Carnation are "gratitude," "elegance," "warm heart," and "beautiful gesture."

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■ May 16th Birth Flower: Allium

Allium is a plant that produces round, pom-pom-like flowers. It is a member of the onion family.
The flower meanings of Allium are "happy marriage," "unyielding spirit," and "rightful assertion."
The meaning "happy marriage" is attributed to its fluffy flower shape.
Also, "rightful assertion" comes from its straight growth towards the sky.

Other flowers for May 16th include "Ixia" and "Banksia Rose."
The flower meanings of Ixia are "unity," "pride," and "secret love."
The flower meanings of Banksia Rose are "simple beauty," "purity," "first love," "happy childhood memories," and "the right person for you."

■ May 17th Birth Flower: Yellow Tulip

Tulips are quintessential spring flowers. Among them, the yellow tulip is the birth flower for May 17th.
The flower meanings of yellow tulip are "honesty," "haughtiness," "fame," and "hopeless love."
Its vibrant color gives it the meanings "honesty," "haughtiness," and "fame," while its delicate appearance lends it the meaning "hopeless love."

Other flowers for May 17th include "Fuchsia," "Exacum," and "Peony."
The flower meanings of Fuchsia are "modest love," "good taste," "elegant hobby," "believing love," "stylish person," and "preference."
The flower meanings of Exacum are "I love you" and "your dream is right."
The flower meanings of Peony are "king's dignity," "wealth and honor," "magnificence," "shyness," and "sincerity."

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■ May 18th Birth Flower: Primrose

Primrose is a plant that grows in clusters along riverbanks and grasslands in early spring, its flowers somewhat resembling cherry blossoms.
The flower meanings of Primrose are "first love," "purity," and "hopes of youth."
Primrose has a very short blooming period, and although beautiful, it cannot be admired for long, which is why flower meanings like "first love" and "hopes of youth" are associated with its ephemeral nature.

Other flowers for May 18th include "Petunia," "Mock Orange," "Lilac," and "Iris."
The flower meanings of Petunia are "your company brings peace to my heart" and "peace of mind."
The flower meanings of Mock Orange are "grace," "dignity," and "recollection."
The flower meanings of Lilac are "friendship," "memories," "humility," and "purity."
The flower meanings of Iris are "hope," "trusting heart," "message," "good news," "good tidings," and "wisdom."

■ May 19th Birth Flower: Satsuki Azalea

Satsuki azalea is a plant of the Ericaceae family, Rhododendron genus, and is native to Japan. It resembles azaleas, but satsuki azaleas bloom about a month later.
The flower meanings of satsuki azalea are "economy," "happiness," "temperance," and "chastity."
Incidentally, in other countries, its flower meanings include "cheerfulness," "passion," and "politeness."
Overall, it is characterized by flower meanings that are both graceful and cheerful.

Other flowers for May 19th include "Bottlebrush," "Peony," and "Walnut."
The flower meanings of Bottlebrush are "fire of love," "flame of love," "pretentious heart," and "fleeting love."
The flower meanings of Peony are "shyness," "bashfulness," "modesty," and "humility."
The flower meanings of Walnut are "intellect," "stratagem," "wisdom," and "ambition."

■ May 20th Birth Flower: Creeping Woodsorrel

Creeping woodsorrel is a common weed found throughout Japan, bearing charming yellow flowers.
The flower meanings of Creeping Woodsorrel are "joy," "shining heart," and "mother's gentleness."
Creeping woodsorrel flowers bloom around Easter, which gives it the meaning "joy."
Additionally, the meaning "shining heart" comes from the fact that in ancient times, the leaves of woodsorrel were used to polish things.

Other flowers for May 20th include "Shasta Daisy" and "Columbine."
The flower meanings of Shasta Daisy are "patience," "patience in all things," "enduring everything," and "meaninglessness."
The flower meanings of Columbine are "victory" and "folly."

■ May 21st Birth Flower: Borage

Borage produces stylish blue flowers. Its star-shaped blooms are a distinctive feature.
The flower meanings of Borage are "courage," "protection," and "change of heart."
This flower was widely known in ancient Greece as a medicine to dispel melancholy, which is why it is associated with "courage."
Additionally, because its color changes depending on the soil conditions, it is also associated with "change of heart."

Other flowers for May 21st include "Baby's Breath," "Larkspur," "Wisteria," and "Rose of Sharon."
The flower meanings of Baby's Breath are "pure heart," "innocence," "happiness," "gratitude," and "kindness."
The flower meanings of Larkspur are "freedom," "cheerfulness," and "vivacity."
The flower meanings of Wisteria are   "welcome," "intoxicated by love," "faithful," "gentleness," and "never apart."
The flower meanings of Rose of Sharon are "delicate love," "delicate beauty," "new beauty," "persuasion," "belief," "respect," and "tenderness."

■ May 22nd Birth Flower: Fuchsia

Fuchsia is a familiar sight to gardening enthusiasts. Its drooping flowers make it elegant and popular.
The flower meanings of Fuchsia are "modest love," "elegant hobby," and "stylish person."
In the West, its flower meanings include "grace" and "confessing love and affection."
All these flower meanings are derived from Fuchsia's stylish appearance.

Other flowers for May 22nd include "Mitsuba Azalea" and "Lemon."
The flower meanings of Mitsuba Azalea are "temperance," "restrained life," "peace," and "self-control."
The flower meanings of Lemon are "heartfelt longing" and "fragrance."

■ May 23rd Birth Flower: Digitalis

Digitalis is also a familiar flower to gardening enthusiasts. It is a staple in English gardens, in particular.
The flower meanings of Digitalis are "insincerity" and "passionate love."
The flower meanings are derived from Greek mythology, where Zeus, disgusted by his wife Hera's dice game, threw the dice to the ground, and they transformed into Digitalis, giving it the meaning "insincerity."

Other flowers for May 23rd include "Godetia," "Calceolaria," and "German Iris."
The flower meanings of Godetia are "unchanging love," "I admire you," and "quiet joy."
The flower meanings of Calceolaria are "aid," "happiness," "my companion," and "delicacy."
The flower meanings of German Iris are "message of love," "messenger," "good news," and "wonderful encounter."

■ May 24th Birth Flower: Heliotrope

Heliotrope was originally cultivated as an herb for its fragrance, and it offers a lovely scent.
The flower meanings of Heliotrope are "eternal love," "devoted love," "infatuation," and "sweet temptation."
These flower meanings are also taken from Greek mythology, specifically the story of the sun god Apollo and the water nymph Clytie.
The unrequited love between them gave rise to these romantic flower meanings.

Other flowers for May 24th include "Lily of the Valley" and "Red Clover."
The flower meanings of Lily of the Valley are "purity," "chastity," and "humility."
The flower meanings of Red Clover are "good-natured and cheerful," "abundant love," "diligence," and "sincerity."

■ May 25th Birth Flower: Pansy

Pansies are spring flowers that offer a colorful palette of blue, purple, and yellow.
The flower meanings of Pansy are "thoughtfulness" and "think of me."
The name "Pansy" comes from the French word "Pensée," meaning "thought" or "to think."
Pansy flowers are said to resemble human faces, and their downward-facing, thoughtful appearance led to these flower meanings.

Other birth flowers for May 25th include Ranunculus, Yuzu, Hyssop, and Wisteria.
The flower meanings for Ranunculus are "very attractive," "radiant charm," and "shining brightly."
The flower meanings for Yuzu are "healthy beauty," "spotless person," and "sigh of love."
The flower meanings for Hyssop are "cleanliness" and "purification."
The flower meanings for Wisteria are "welcome," "intoxicated with love," "faithful," "gentleness," and "never separate."

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■ May 26th Birth Flower: Olive

The olive is a popular choice for a symbolic tree, strongly associated with peace.
The flower meanings for olive are "peace" and "wisdom."
The flower meaning "peace" comes from the Old Testament, specifically the story of Noah's Ark.
Noah, having escaped the flood, knew that peace had returned to the earth when a dove flew to him with an olive leaf in its beak.

Other birth flowers for May 26th include Geranium, Sandersonia, and Clover.
The flower meanings for Geranium are "true friendship," "respect," and "trust."
The flower meanings for Sandersonia are "thinking of one's homeland," "nostalgia," "charm," and "good news."
The flower meanings for Clover are"promise," "luck," "revenge," and "think of me."

■ May 27th Birth Flower: Matricaria

Matricaria is a flower known as a type of herb and is also frequently used in weddings.
The flower meanings for Matricaria are "joy of gathering," "deep affection," and "joyful heart."
Matricaria flowers bloom in clusters of small blossoms, which is why it has the flower meaning "joy of gathering."
The flower meaning "sedation" comes from the belief in ancient times that it was effective for women's ailments.

Other birth flowers for May 27th include Ebine and Ode Mari.
The flower meanings for Ebine are "clear eyes," "be yourself," and "beautiful and radiant person."
The flower meanings for Ode Mari are "passionate love," "bond," "I vow," and "elegant accomplishment."

■ May 28th Birth Flower: Lily of the Valley

Lily of the Valley is a perennial plant of the Asparagaceae family that bears white flowers.
Its flower meanings are "purity," "chastity," and "humility."
It is said that Lily of the Valley flowers sprang from the tears shed by the Virgin Mary when Christ was crucified.
In Europe, it was customary to include Lily of the Valley in a bride's bouquet in May.

Other birth flowers for May 28th include Amaryllis, Gloriosa, and Veronica.
The flower meanings for Amaryllis are "talkative," "radiant beauty," "shyness," "timid heart," "pride," and "vanity."
The flower meanings for Gloriosa are "burning passion," "courage," "strength," "talent," and "glory."
The flower meanings for Veronica are "honor," "fidelity," "happy home," and "woman's chastity."

■ May 29th Birth Flower: Nigella

Nigella is a flower characterized by its blue hues and unusual flower shape.
The flower meanings for Nigella are "future," "indomitable spirit," "perplexed," and "bewildered."
It was particularly cherished in medieval Europe and was considered a symbol of inner beauty.
The flower meaning "future" was given because the way its seeds mature suggests hope for the future.

Other birth flowers for May 29th include Columbine and Dianthus.
The flower meanings for Columbine are "determination," "folly," and "I will surely get it."
The flower meanings for Dianthus are "pure love," "chastity," and "innocence."

■ May 30th Birth Flower: Purple Lilac

This is the purple lilac, often used in weddings. Many are planted in Hokkaido.
The flower meanings for purple lilac are "budding love" and "first love."
These are actually the same flower meanings as for lilac in general.
The reason for this is likely that purple lilac is the standard.

Other birth flowers for May 30th include Amaryllis, Pelargonium, Exacum, Atsumorisou, and Olive.
The flower meanings for Amaryllis are "talkative," "radiant beauty," "shyness," "timid heart," "pride," and "vanity."
The flower meanings for Pelargonium are "gorgeous attire," "happiness with you," "determination," and "resolution."
The flower meanings for Exacum are "your dream is right" and "I love you."
The flower meanings for Atsumorisou are "whim," "fickleness," and "I won't forget you."
The flower meanings for Olive are "peace," "wisdom," "tranquility," and "victory."

■ May 31st Birth Flower: Lupine

Lupine is a flower that blooms in spring, extending its colorful flower spikes towards the sun.
The flower meanings for lupine are "greed," "imagination," and "you are my peace."
Lupine is a very strong flower that grows vigorously even in barren land. This is why it has the flower meaning "greed."
Also, in regions where lupine is eaten, it is believed to enhance imagination, hence the flower meaning "imagination."

Other birth flowers for May 29th include Wisteria, Scilla, and Calla Lily.
The flower meanings for Wisteria are "gentleness," "welcome," "intoxicated with love," "faithful," and "never separate."
The flower meanings for Scilla are "unchanging love," "sensitive heart," "patience," and "loneliness."
The flower meanings for Calla Lily are "gorgeous beauty," "purity," and "maiden's grace."