Birthday flowers for February

Each month of the year is associated with a different flower. The birthday flowers for the month of February are violets. They are available in several colours such as blue, mauve, yellow and cream. This flower is associated with chastity, humility and faithfulness. This means that they are perfect for many occasions, including February birthdays.

Myths and literature

There are some interesting legends and stories associated with these birthday flowers. In Greek mythology, violets grew where Ajax took his own life in a moment of cowardice. Violets are used to convey devotion in a scene of Hamlet and they also appear in the lyrics of one of the songs in this famous work.

Culinary uses

The Tartans used violets as a source of food. Today they might be seen as birthday flowers but, back then, they were added to a soup. Monks also called violets the Herb of the Trinity during the Middle Ages. Apart from the lovely scent of these blooms, they were also used for their antiseptic properties and to ease pain. Romans would use this flower in the case of spleen problems or gout.

Flowers for each state

Each state in the USA has its own flower. There are four states that have chosen violets as their state flower. These are Rhode Island, Wisconsin, Illinois and New Jersey. So if you know somebody from one of these states who also celebrates their birthday in February, they will make an extra special choice when it comes to birthday flowers.

While you might not be able to find these birthday flowers as cut stems, you can find a potted plant. In many cases, a potted plant will actually prove to be even more special because it will last more than just a couple of weeks. It will be a lasting gift that will remind the recipient how much you care for many months.