Violets, the February birthday flower, are beautiful and versatile flowers that grow well in the wild. They have been associated with love, faith, and chastity. There are a lot of facts about violets that most people would be surprised to learn, and this little flower hides many wonders beneath the heart-shaped petals! It's fitting that the violet is the flower for February birthdays, as February is also the month of love and creativity. So let's delve into the world of this herbaceous little flower and see what secrets violets have to tell us!
Violets Are Not Always Violet
Despite the name, violets actually come in a variety of different colors. While the purple and blue violets tend to steal the spotlight, you'll also find that the February birthday flower of the month comes in yellow, white, and orange, and many of them have a second color in the middle. What unites all of these flowers is the family: All violet species are from the family Violaceae.
African Violets Are Not Violets
Saintpaulia, the plant commonly known as African violet, is from the family Gesneriaceae. This means it is not actually a violet, but it looks very similar. Since violets do not grow very well indoors, saintpaulia is often used instead. Pansies, however, are a type of violet, as are between 525 and 600 other species.
The Meaning Behind Violets
In floriography, the symbolic meaning of flowers, violets symbolize modesty, humility, and faithfulness. These qualities are evident in their low-growing nature and bashful appearance. As with many flowers, violets are layered with symbolism. For example, purple violets have different meanings than white violets.
In contemporary contexts, violets are known to signify friendship, new beginnings, and spiritual growth. These qualities make them a fitting flower to be included in a February birthday flower arrangement. The violet also symbolizes renewal and optimism, which can be conveyed in lovely early-spring flower bouquets.
Beyond these attributes, violets also represent delicate love, holding particular significance within the LGBTQ+ community as a symbol of female love, drawing on their appearance in works by the Greek poet Sappho. Their simple yet striking purple petals convey a message of profound affection and connection.
Spiritually, violets carry meanings that can inspire imagination and dreams. For those who feel a connection to the spiritual realm, these flowers may enhance your abilities and offer enlightenment, guiding you toward a more insightful future.
Are Violets Edible?
Violets are a delightful addition to the culinary world. These vibrant flowers can transform ordinary dishes into visual masterpieces.
- Cakes and Cocktails: Violet petals, with their vivid colors, make stunning decorations atop cakes and cocktails.
- Teas and Syrups: When mixed into teas or syrups, they provide not only a hint of sweetness but also antioxidant benefits.
It's essential, however, to ensure that any violets consumed are specifically grown for human consumption to avoid any harmful effects; do not eat violets out of a February birthday bouquet.
Medicinal Uses of Violet Flowers
Since they grow prolifically in temperate zones, violets have been collected for a variety of uses since the ancient Greeks. They have been eaten, fermented, and used in medicine in addition to being worn or used to decorate. Since violets are rich in vitamin C and have soothing anti-inflammatory properties when applied to the skin, herbalists throughout history have used them to nourish and heal.
- Immune System Boost: Violets can enhance your immune system, helping your body fend off illnesses more effectively.
- Blood Cleansing: These flowers are known for their ability to cleanse the blood, promoting better overall health.
- Respiratory Relief: They can assist with congestion, easing the discomfort of colds and allergies.
- Digestive Aid: Violets may soothe stomach cramps, offering relief from digestive issues.
- Throat Soothing: Their properties can help alleviate sore throats, making them a go-to in herbal remedies.
For practical use, violets can be incorporated into teas or syrups. However, it's important to consult a medical professional before trying violets as a home remedy to make sure that you're using them safely.
Myths and Legends of Violets
The flower for a February birthday also holds a storied place in ancient folklore, woven deeply into the myths of Greece and Rome. These delicate blooms were more than just ornamental; they played a significant role in cultural rituals and legends.
- Greek Mythology: Violets are said to have flourished from the enchanted music of Orpheus, a legendary figure known for his magical ability to charm all living things. In another tale, the goddess Cybele caused violets to sprout where her son's blood fell, marking them as symbols of love and mourning.
- Roman Traditions: The Romans cherished violets for their versatility, using them in everything from fine wines to sweet festival dishes, showcasing the flower's culinary significance.
- Valentine's Day Connection: Before roses became synonymous with romance, violets were the flower of Valentine's Day. Lore suggests that St. Valentine himself used violet-infused ink to pen heartfelt messages while imprisoned, capturing the flower's essence of love and devotion. Take inspiration from St. Valentine and send a beautiful happy birthday February flower arrangement to someone you hold dear!
Where to Find Violets
Violets can be grown in any temperate zone, but this huge family has a wide array of personalities. Some violets grow well in cool climates, while others need a little warmth to thrive. Some species of violets thrive in damp areas, while others crave loose soil and still others hide underground. They all seem to prefer shade and moderate temperatures, but each species has different needs.Â
The Wild Violet
Violets can be found all over the United States, and a few species can be found in Europe. They bloom from spring to early summer in well-saturated or freely draining soil, but in the right conditions, they can last as long as early fall. They spread almost invasively, but they only last for the season of their blooming.
Gardening With Violets
Although violets are wildflowers, they can still be cultivated and tamed for your garden. This is a relatively simple matter of keeping them from spreading and watching out for natural predators that consume parts of the plant. Most violets want to be in the moist, shady part of your garden, but they can also be nurtured in containers. Try your hand at growing the birthday flower for February in your garden and give the beautiful blooms to someone special!
Decorating With Violets
Our favorite place to admire violets is in the comfort of our own homes or offices; sending a February birthday flower arrangement to either of these locations is sure to make the recipient smile. Violets have the ability to be comforting and uplifting in any environment in any season! Potted in a ceramic pot or wooden planter, these little plants bring a real sense of style and personality into any room. Whether planted alone or accompanied by complimenting green foliage, violets' vibrant colored petals and textures radiate positivity in any room, making them the perfect addition to any decor! Whether you are placing your new violet planter on your kitchen counter, on your desk in your office, or maybe on the end table in your living room, it is sure to be adored and recognized by all who see it.
This article was posted by Chad Kremp
