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May Birth Flower: Lily of the Valley

Lily of the valley represents the return of happiness and is associated with sweetness and humility. Its delicate bell-shaped flowers symbolize the promise of renewed joy.

May Birth Flower: Quick Answer

Primary Flower
Lily of the Valley
Secondary Flower
Hawthorn
Main Meaning
Return of Happiness
Best Gift Ideas
Potted lily of the valley

🀍 About the Lily of the Valley

Lily of the valley features tiny, fragrant white bells dangling from arching stems. Despite its delicate appearance, it's a hardy plant that spreads readily in shaded gardens.

πŸ’« Symbolism & Meaning

The lily of the valley carries deep symbolism and has been revered across cultures for centuries. Here are the key meanings associated with this beautiful bloom:

✦ Return of Happiness
✦ Humility
✦ Sweetness
✦ Purity

Colors

πŸ“œ Historical Origin

Lily of the valley is native to Europe and Asia. In Christian tradition, it sprang from Eve's tears when she was expelled from Eden. It's traditionally given on May Day in France.

🌍 Cultural Meanings

The lily of the valley has different meanings across various cultures:

France

Given on May 1st for luck (FΓͺte du Muguet)

Christianity

Called 'Our Lady's Tears' - associated with Virgin Mary

Finland

National flower

British Royalty

Featured in Kate Middleton's wedding bouquet

🧠 Personality Traits

People born in May with lily of the valley as their birth flower are often described as:

Gentle Humble Thoughtful Reliable Nurturing

🎁 Gift Ideas

Looking for the perfect gift for someone born in May? Here are some lily of the valley-themed ideas across different budgets:

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Budget-Friendly

  • β€’ Lily of the valley perfume sample
  • β€’ Pressed flower bookmark
  • β€’ Scented candle
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Mid-Range

  • β€’ Potted lily of the valley
  • β€’ Lily-themed jewelry
  • β€’ Fragrance set
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Premium

  • β€’ Emerald jewelry (matching birthstone)
  • β€’ Designer lily of the valley perfume
  • β€’ Antique lily brooch

🌱 Care Instructions

If you're gifting or receiving lily of the valleys, here's how to care for them:

1 Plant in partial to full shade
2 Keep soil moist but well-drained
3 Space plants to allow spreading
4 All parts are highly toxic - keep away from pets and children
5 Divide in fall to control spread

πŸ’‘ Interesting Facts

✦ Despite its sweet appearance, all parts are highly poisonous
✦ The fragrance is one of the most expensive to extract for perfumery
✦ It's been used in medicine to treat heart conditions
✦ A symbol of the coming of spring in many European countries
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Secondary Birth Flower

Hawthorn

May also has a secondary birth flower: the hawthorn. While the lily of the valley is the primary symbol, the hawthorn offers an equally meaningful alternative for those born this month, carrying its own unique symbolism and beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lily of the valley poisonous?β–Ό
Yes, all parts of lily of the valley are highly toxic. Even the water from a vase containing them can be poisonous. Keep away from children and pets.
What does lily of the valley smell like?β–Ό
Lily of the valley has a sweet, fresh, slightly green floral scent that's highly prized in perfumery. It's often described as the essence of spring.
What is May's secondary birth flower?β–Ό
The hawthorn is May's secondary birth flower, symbolizing hope and supreme happiness. It's associated with fairy folklore in Celtic traditions.