January Birth Flower:
Carnation, Snowdrop and Winter Aconite

January Birth Flower: Carnations

Symbolism: Love, Remembrance, Peace

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn & Aquarius

Carnations (Dianthus Caryophyllus) are often chosen as the birth flower for those born in January. Even though in the wild in its native habitat (medditeranean Europe) this flower actually blooms in early summer! However the carnation's long lasting blooms make it perfect as a symbol of resilience for the month of January and those born in it.

The carnation has some very prestigious historical connections. Its name is thought to stem from the Latin word for crown ‘Corona-ae', as it was often used to decorate Greek and Roman ceremonial crowns. It’s scientific name comes from the greek word for God (or more specifically, Zeus) Dios and flower Anthos, making it known as The Flower of God, pretty fancy eh?!

A Flower of Celebration

The carnation is also used in many other celebrations around the world. In Chinese culture the carnation is often used for wedding celebrations, while in Korea pink and red carnations are symbols love and gratitude and are worn on Parents Day. In the USA, Anna Jarvis, the creator of the concept of Mothers Day, chose this bloom as an emblem of the day (apparently because it was her mum’s favourite flower), very sweet!

Political Significance

Politically, the red carnation is often associated with revolutions and workers rights. In Portugal, bright red carnations were worn when the authoritarian regime was overthrown in 1974, in what became known as the "Carnation Revolution". In the Netherlands during the Second World War, white carnations were used as a symbol of resistance against the Nazis, and in many European countries the red carnation is worn alongside the red rose as a symbol of socialism.

Secret Meanings

Dyed Green carnations have been used to celebrate St Patrick's Day, and were most famously worn by the Irish writer Oscar Wilde. During the late 19th and early 20th century they were used by many gay people, including Wilde, as secret symbol of their homosexuality. Noel Coward even wrote a song about this, “We all Wear a Green Carnation”.

January Birth Flower: Snowdrops

Symbolism: Hope, Rebirth, New Chapters

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn & Aquarius

Another January Birth Flower is the Snowdrop (Galanthus). Snowdrops are beautiful wild flowers which are native to Europe and are some of the earliest blooming flowers of the year. The sight of a forest carpeted with snowdrops is one of the first symbols that the darkness of winter is almost over! For this reason, snowdrops are often associated with hope, new beginnings and the coming of spring.

Celtic Connections

In Celtic culture snowdrops are seen of as protective flowers, which ward off evil spirits and banish the winter. They are most associated with the ancient festival of Imbolc, or St Brigid's day. Celebrated on 1st February, this festival marks the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. During this celebration snowdrops are seen of as symbols of good luck and the re-awakening of nature after a long hard winter.

Very Superstitious...

In contrast, the Victorians believed if you picked snowdrops and brought them inside you would bring misfortune (or worse, death!) upon yourself. It’s thought that this belief came about because snowdrops often can be found growing in British cemeteries and so were seen of as "omens of death". This superstition has stuck and many British people (at least in my family!) see picking snowdrops as unlucky.

Flower of the Underworld...

In Greek mythology, it is said that when Persephone, (the Goddess of nature amongst other job titles), returned from the Underworld, she brought snowdrops with her as a symbol of hope and the coming of springtime.

Cool Science Fact!

Snowdrops are thermogenic, meaning they can produce their own heat! This special ability helps snowdrops survive and flower even in the cold of winter, as they are able to melt any snow or ice with covers them and attract early-emerging insects like bees and flies with their warmth. So, next time you spot a snowdrop peeking through the snow, remember that its not just a pretty flower but also a little natural heater! 🌡

January Birth Flower: Winter Aconite

Symbolism: Warmth, Happiness and Friendship

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn & Aquarius

Last but not least, I have included the charming Winter Aconite (Eranthis hyemalis) as a bonus January Birth Flower!

Winter aconite is a wildflower native to Europe and is commonly found in woodlands and meadows across the continent. This cheerful little bloom appears in January, often alongside snowdrops, heralding the arrival of spring and offering hope for brighter days ahead.

Butterflies and Buttercups

Winter aconite also belongs to the Ranunculaceae family, which includes other plants like buttercups and anemones. The flower's cup-shaped blossoms and bright yellow color give it a resemblance to its buttercup cousins. This flower provides an important food source for early-emerging insects like bees and flies. Its brightly coloured flowers attract pollinators when few other food options are available.

A Flower of Friendship

In the language of flowers, Winter Aconite is often seen of as a symbol of friendship, hope, and rebirth. Giving someone a one of these sunny blooms can convey sentiments of affection and appreciation, which make them the perfect flower to give to a cherished friend born in January. 💌

January Birth Flower Tattoo Ideas: Carnation

January Birth Flower Tattoo Ideas: Snow Drop

January Birth Flower Tattoo Ideas: Winter Aconite