July Birth Flowers: Delphinium and Water Lily
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July is a beautiful month filled with warm sunshine and blooming flowers and two of the most popular birth flowers for this month are the delphiniums and the lily. The delphinium, also known as the larkspur, is a tall, stately flower that comes in a variety of colors including blue, purple, pink, and white.
The lily, on the other hand, is a classic and elegant flower that symbolizes purity, innocence, and beauty. Both the delphinium and the lily are perfect for adding a touch of color and elegance to any garden or bouquet.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at these two July birth flowers and explore their meanings, history, and care tips. So, whether you’re a July baby or simply love these beautiful flowers, read on to learn more!
Delphinium – What You Need to Know
A member of the Ranunculaceae family, this flower goes by two names depending on the region in question. In Greece, they go by the name delphiniums, branded so by the ancients because of their likeness to a dolphin’s nose.
However, in the UK, they go by the name larkspur as they resemble the claws of the meadowlark. Still, regardless of the region or the name, the flowers usually have five petals and spot a spur right at the center.
 In a summer full of blooms, delphiniums stand out by growing 3-6 feet tall and producing vibrant blue flowers easy to spot a good distance away. There are many varieties of this flower, which sometimes bloom together, and they symbolize dignity, positivity, grace, and an open heart. Other colors of delphinium include white, pink, and purple.
Delphinium Facts
- These beautiful and graceful blooms happen to be highly toxic to both humans and animals, and therefore should not be ingested.
- According to Greek mythology, the delphinium is connected to Ajax, a great warrior, who was driven mad by the goddess Athena. He killed himself by falling on his sword and where his blood fell, the delphinium flowers grew as a reminder of his tragic end.
- In ancient England, it was believed that using delphinium petals in baths protected the user from ghosts and evil spirits. For the same reason, the blooms were commonly included in summer solstice celebrations.
- Similarly, Transylvanians planted larkspur near stables because they believed that the flowers would repel witches. 
- Ancient Greeks used delphinium to treat wounds.
- Native Americans used the flower to make insect repellents as well as dyes, a practice that was later picked up by European settlers.
Delphinium Meaning and Symbolism
Even though delphiniums generally symbolize dignity and an open heart, their meanings are best described by the specific color of the variety as follows:
- Blue: This color of delphinium carries the most common significance, symbolizing dignity and grace.
-  Pink: These represent fickleness.
- White: This color of Larkspur signifies happiness and positivity.
- Purple: A representation of first love.
Growing Delphinium
Delphiniums are tall, stately flowers that are easy to grow in well-drained soil from full sun to partial shade. They prefer cool climates and should be planted in the spring or fall. They require regular watering and fertilization. Deadheading spent blooms will encourage reblooming.
Delphiniums are also heavy feeders, so it’s recommended to amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting. They may need staking or support as they grow tall. Delphiniums are also susceptible to powdery mildew, so it’s important to provide proper air circulation around the plants.
With proper care, delphiniums will produce beautiful spikes of flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white. 
Water Lily -What You Need to Know
Belonging to the Nymphaeaceae family, water lilies are perennial plants that are found in a plethora of colors, strong fragrances, and petals that interlock before fanning out, just to showcase their beauty. They’re categorized into two main varieties, the hardy and the tropical water lily. Let’s look at these two types in a little more detail.
Tropical Water Lilies  
Tropical water lilies are a beautiful addition to any water garden or pond. They’re known for their large, colorful, and fragrant blooms that float on the surface of the water. They require at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight and warm temperatures to thrive.
They’re also very easy to grow, and once established, they will spread and multiply quickly. Tropical water lilies are available in a wide range of colors including pink, yellow, red, and white. Tropical water lilies are a great way to add color and beauty to your pond while also providing a home for aquatic wildlife.
Hardy Water Lilies
Hardy water lilies are a popular choice for ponds and water gardens because they can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and conditions. They’re native to temperate climates and can survive in colder temperatures compared to tropical water lilies.
They typically bloom from June to September and require at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. They’re available in a variety of colors including pink, yellow, red, and white, and have large leaves that float on the surface of the water and provide shade for fish. They also help to reduce algae growth by shading the pond. They’re easy to grow and care for, and once established, they’ll spread and multiply. 
Water Lily Facts
- Besides being extraordinarily beautiful, water lilies play an important role in the ecosystem. For one, they provide food to fish and wildlife, and second, they reduce algae growth by providing shade. Lastly, they filter the water in which they grow.
- The name Nymphaeaceae is derived from the Greek legend that purports that nymphs are the protectors of water lilies.
- An Egyptian legend tells of a blue water lily that was used to create the first gods.
- The water lily has been known to have medicinal properties and is commonly used to treat inflammations, aches, insomnia, and anxiety. In some cases, it was also used as an aphrodisiac.
Water Lily Meaning and Symbolism
The meaning of water lilies varies according to culture, the characteristics of the flower, and the color in question. Here are some of the most common meanings behind this unique flower:
- Resurrection/Rebirth: This symbolism is based on the fact that the flowers open and close each day.
- Enlightenment: These beautiful blooms emerge from dirty waters, yet they stand out in terms of beauty, fragrance, and importance.
- White Water Lilies Like most white flowers, this type signifies innocence, chastity, and purity.
- Red Water Lilies Red being the color of love, this variety represents romance and passion.
- Pink water lilies signify joy and friendship.
- Blue water lilies represent wisdom and calmness.  
- Yellow water lilies symbolize renewed energy and new beginnings.
 Growing Water Lily
Growing water lilies is easy and rewarding. They can be planted in a pond, water garden, or a container filled with water. They require a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight daily and a water depth of at least 18 inches and thrive in nutrient-rich soil, so it’s important to add compost or fertilizer to the water.
Water lilies also need a lot of space to spread out and grow, so make sure to give them enough space in your pond or container. Hardy water lilies can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, however, tropical water lilies require warm temperatures to thrive.
Water lilies are also heavy feeders, so regular fertilization is necessary for optimal growth. Deadheading spent blooms will encourage reblooming. With proper care, water lilies will produce beautiful and colorful blooms all season long.
Gift Ideas for Those Born in July
Some birth flower gift ideas for July babies include:
1. Pressed Flower Art 
This real, natural larkspur, pressed and fit between acrylic glass firmly screwed with plywood makes for a great gift for a July-born. They get to keep the real delphinium, famous for warding off evil for a long time, while at the same time, enjoying the beautiful art.
2. Wooden Watch with Larkspur Engraving
While the wooden watch comes with the rings of time, signifying eternity, the engraved larkspur speaks of a strong bond of love, thus making this an excellent gift for someone you truly value in your life.
3. Water Lily Painting 
The 3D painting showcases how the gorgeous water lily emerges from dirty water. It’s a beautiful piece of art to have in your space and it’ll constantly remind you that you can rise from the worst situation, and still be outstanding.
4. The Monet Water Lily Puzzle
This 252-piece puzzle that upon completion forms an outstanding water lily makes for a unique gift, especially for puzzle lovers. It’s simple enough for beginners but challenging enough to keep everyone interested!
5. Delphinium or Water Lily Scented Candles
A delphinium or water lily-scented candle can be a great gift for someone born in July. Delphiniums symbolize an open heart and a strong connection, while water lilies symbolize rebirth and purity. A scented candle, with the fragrance of these flowers, can be a thoughtful and personal gift that can evoke memories and emotions associated with the flower.
Additionally, candles are a versatile and timeless gift that can be used for any occasion, such as a birthday, or anniversary or even just as a thoughtful gesture.
6. Delphinium or Water Lily Resin Jewelry
Delphinium or water lily resin jewelry can be a unique and thoughtful gift for someone born in July. Jewelry made out of resin with the shape or image of these flowers can be a beautiful and personal way to keep them close to the person’s heart. Resin jewelry is versatile, durable, and can be worn with any outfit, making it a perfect gift that can be used on any occasion.
Wrapping Up
Those born in July are generally known to be fun and charming people with very welcoming personalities. Just like the delphinium and the water lily, they’re graceful and outstanding and bring with them an air of joy and warmth.
Choosing a birth flower gift for someone born in July is therefore very easy because the month’s flowers will guide you to the perfect choice.
