March Birth Flowers – Daffodils and Tulips
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March’s birth flowers are the daffodil and the tulip. These two flowering plants are popular choices for bouquets and other floral arrangements and are associated with springtime and the renewal of life. They’re also associated with modesty, love, and innocence.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at these two March birth flowers and their meaning and symbolism.
Daffodils – What You Need to Know
Daffodils, also known as narcissus, are flowering plant that belongs to the amaryllis family. They are often associated with springtime, and their bright yellow blooms are a symbol of hope and renewal. Daffodils are native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia, and have been cultivated for thousands of years.
They’re prized for their beauty and their ability to brighten up any garden or landscape. The daffodil is also popular as a cut flower and is often used in bouquets and other floral arrangements.
Daffodil Facts
1. Rome
The Ancient Romans crushed daffodils into a paste which then they then used to treat wounds, bruises, burns, painful joints, and even tumors.
2. Wales
The daffodil is the national flower of Wales, where it has held great significance throughout history. According to certain legends, the person who saw the first daffodil bloom in the season would reap fortunes and wealth in the oncoming year. The Welsh have used galantamine which they extract from daffodils to help slow the effects of Alzheimer’s disease.
3. China
Since daffodils blossom during the new Chinese year, they’re seen to represent new beginnings and rebirth. Daffodils also inspire creativity and forgiveness.
4. France
In France, the daffodil is regarded as a symbol of hope.
5. Middle East
Ancient folks in the Middle East used daffodils as an aphrodisiac and to cure baldness.
Daffodil Symbolism and Meaning
As one of the earliest flowers to bloom in spring, daffodils symbolize new beginnings and rebirth. However, the meaning of this flower can vary depending on its color.
1. Yellow
Yellow daffodils symbolize new energy, joy, and optimism.
2. White
White symbolizes purity, peace, youth, and faith.
3. Orange
With their warm color, orange daffodils symbolize optimism, vitality, enthusiasm, and friendship.
4. Pink
Pink symbolizes happiness, gentility, and grace.
Growing Daffodils
Daffodils are known for their bright, cheerful yellow flowers, which have a distinctive trumpet-shaped center. They’re easy to grow and make a great addition to any garden.
Daffodils prefer well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight and should be planted in the fall for best results. To plant daffodils, dig a hole about twice the size of the bulb, place the bulb in the hole with the pointy side facing upwards, and cover it with soil.
Water the bulbs well and keep the soil moist until the daffodils begin to sprout in the spring. With a little care, daffodils will reward you with a beautiful display of blooms year after year.
Tulips – What You Need to Know
Tulips originated from the wild escarpments of Central Asia before being introduced to Europe by biologist Carolus Clusius. These magnificent blooms became so beloved in Europe, especially in the Netherlands creating the infamous “tulip mania.”
The tulip mania was a period in the Dutch Golden Age (the 17th century) during which the prices of the recently introduced tulip skyrocketed and then dramatically collapsed in February 1637.
It’s considered to have been an economic bubble and is one of the first recorded instances of such a bubble. At the peak of tulip mania, in February 1637, some single tulip bulbs were sold for more than ten times the annual income of a skilled craftworker. The tulip mania is often used as a cautionary tale about the dangers of excessive speculation and the need for sound financial regulation.
Tulip Facts
- Tulips are native to the steppes of Central Asia and were introduced to Europe in the 16th century.
- The tulip is the national flower of the Netherlands, where it’s regarded as a symbol of spring.
- Tulips are named after the Turkish word for turban because the shape of the flower is similar to that of a turban.
- The first tulips in Europe were grown by the Ottoman Sultans in their gardens.
- These flowers come in a wide range of colors, including red, yellow, white, pink, and purple.
- Tulip bulbs can be planted in the fall and will bloom in the spring.
- Tulip flowers only last for a few days, but they can be cut and placed in water to enjoy indoors.
- Some species of tulips are fragrant, while others have no scent at all.
- Tulip bulbs can be forced to bloom indoors in the winter, providing a colorful display when most other plants are dormant.
- Tulips are edible flowers that are often used for culinary purposes. Sometimes they’re used to replace onions and other times used to sweeten wine.
Tulip Symbolism and Meaning
In general, tulips are a symbol of spring, renewal, and the arrival of warmer weather. They’re also associated with love and romance and are often used as a way to express feelings of love and admiration.
In some parts of the world, tulips are regarded as a symbol of wealth and luxury, as they were once incredibly expensive and coveted by the wealthy. Here’s a look at the various meanings of tulips depending on the flower’s color.
1. White
White tulips signify purity, respect, forgiveness, and honor. They come in handy when you need to make an apology, or when your loved one is celebrating a religious occasion. When seen in a dream, a white tulip means that a fresh start or new journey is imminent.
2. Yellow
This warm and happy shade of tulips signifies hope and cheerfulness. In the Victorian era, yellow tulips were gifted to someone as a way of saying they have a beautiful smile. It was believed that when planted in the home garden they would bring prosperity and good luck.
3. Red
Red tulips are known as the flowers of passion. Present these if you aim to pass a message of love and compassion.
4. Pink
These signify love, care, and good wishes. Pink tulips are ideal when presented with a congratulatory message.
5. Purple
Being the color of royalty, purple tulips signify elegance. Gifting these to someone means you think that they are fabulous.
Growing Tulips
Tulips are easy to grow and can add a splash of color to your garden in the spring. To grow tulips, plant the bulbs in the fall in a sunny location with well-drained soil. Water the bulbs thoroughly after planting, and then water them regularly throughout the growing season.
Deadhead the flowers as they fade to encourage additional blooms and protect the bulbs from pests and diseases. Tulips are low-maintenance plants and will continue to come back year after year if they are properly cared for. With just a little effort, you can enjoy beautiful tulip blooms in your garden.
Gift Ideas for March Babies
If you’re looking for a memorable and unique gift idea for a March born, here are some creative options you could go for.
1. Daffodil Note Cards
Daffodil note cards are often used to celebrate special occasions, such as birthdays, anniversaries, and other holidays. They can also be used to send a simple message of love and affection to a friend or loved one.
Daffodil note cards are available in a variety of styles and designs and can be purchased at many cards and gift shops. They are a thoughtful and beautiful way to share a message with someone special.
2. Daffodil Locket-Pendant
This elegant, vintage-style locket pendant is the perfect accessory to add a touch of personalization to any outfit. The locket is made from high-quality materials and has a beautiful, unique finish. It opens to reveal space for a small photo or another special memento. This pendant is a thoughtful and sentimental gift for a March born for any occasion.
3. Daffodil or Tulip-Scented Candles
These candles are made using natural essential oils extracted from daffodil flowers and are known for their pleasant and refreshing scent.
Daffodil-scented candles are often used to create a calming and relaxing atmosphere in the home and can be enjoyed in any room where a pleasant fragrance is desired.
They are also popular gift items and can be purchased at many candle and home fragrance shops.
4. The Daffodil Principle
Written by Jaroldeen Edwards, The Daffodil Principle is based on a true story about the author’s mother, who used the simple act of planting daffodils each spring as a way to overcome difficult times and find joy and fulfillment in her life.
The book explores the many lessons that can be learned from the daffodil principle, including the importance of perseverance, optimism, and the power of small actions to make a big difference. The Daffodil Principle is a moving and inspiring read that has touched the hearts of many readers.
5. A Daffodil Pendant
Often made from gold or silver and with its delicate, intricate design, a daffodil pendant is a perfect accessory for those who love the bright, cheerful colors of daffodils. Wear it to add a touch of whimsy and joy to any outfit.
6. Tulip Desk Lamp
This desk lamp is the perfect gift for the March born who loves to read or study late into the night. Its beautiful design will complement any desk, and it gives just the perfect amount of light where it’s needed. Its energy-efficient LED bulbs provide soft, comfortable light and a romantic atmosphere. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.
Wrapping Up
Daffodils and tulips are two of the most popular spring flowers, and they make a beautiful and cheerful gift for any occasion. Daffodils symbolize new beginnings and are often associated with spring, while tulips represent perfect love. These colorful and fragrant blooms are a great way to bring a touch of spring into a March baby’s life.
