NOVEMBER FLOWER

The chrysanthemum is the November birth flower. Chrysanthemums were first cultivated in China many centuries ago, and have appeared in ancient Chinese writings since 15th century BC. The Chinese used the chrysanthemum as an herbal remedy for various ailments such as headache relief, reducing blood pressure and as an anti-inflammatory.

From China, the chrysanthemum migrated across the sea to Japan where it was further cultivated by Buddhist monks in AD 400. Due to its beauty, the flower quickly became the official flower for the Japanese emperor’s crest and official seal. The Japanese word for chrysanthemum is “kiku” and every year the country celebrates National Chrysanthemum Day, which is also referred to as the Festival of Happiness.

The chrysanthemum finally made its way over to Europe in the 17th century where Carl Linnaeus, the father of taxonomy, coined the name “chrysanthemum.” The name is a fusion of the words “chrysos” meaning gold, and “anthemon” meaning flower. Today, this November flower has become one of the most popular flowers around the world.

Chrysanthemum Meanings and Symbolism

As the birth flower for November, the chrysanthemum is one of the most colorful flowers that blooms in fall — a season that’s known for having only a few colorful blooms. Therefore, the chrysanthemum symbolizes joy and beauty despite the oncoming colder months.

Different chrysanthemums carry different meanings across various time periods and cultures. According to the Victorian language of flowers, chrysanthemums symbolize friendship and well-wishing. In Buddhism, chrysanthemums are used as offerings to emit powerful Yang energy. In China, chrysanthemums are commonly offered to the elderly, as they symbolize long life and good luck. In Australia, chrysanthemums are the official flowers for Mother’s Day due to their nickname “mum.”

Chrysanthemums come in a variety of different colors, each holding a different meaning:

• White chrysanthemums symbolize loyalty and honesty.
• Red chrysanthemums symbolize love and deep passion.
• Violet chrysanthemums symbolize a wish to get well.
• Yellow chrysanthemums symbolize neglected love or sorrow.

OCTOBER FLOWER

The marigold is the October birth flower. It is known for its vibrant orange color and is native to the Mediterranean. The first recorded cultivation of marigolds began with the Aztecs, who believed that the sunny flower possessed magical properties. Spanish conquistadors took these marigolds back with them to Spain where they were grown in monasteries.

From here, the marigold spread throughout Europe, and ultimately the rest of the world. Throughout history, marigolds have been used as dyes and as culinary ingredients, as well as a cure for many health ailments. In Mexico and Latin America, marigolds are used as a primary decoration for All Saints Day, where altars are embellished with these bright orange flowers. Today, the marigold is one of the most popular flowers in the United States.

With a bloom time that spans nearly the entire year, this October flower blooms from spring to fall and are one of the hardiest fall flowers. Avid gardeners plant marigolds due to their ability to repel insects and pests. Additionally, their odor can repel bacterial growth within the soil, keeping it healthy and nutritious for other plants.

Marigold Meanings and Symbolism

Marigolds are available in yellow, gold and red, but they are best known for their bright orange color, which symbolizes creativity and passion. However, in different cultures, the marigold can take on a wide variety of meanings, both positive and negative, such as:

• Promoting cheer and joy
• Winning over someone’s love with hard work
• Desire to be wealthy and successful
• Despair and grief
• Remembering those who have passed away