Chilly winds. Hot chocolate. And Christmas lights. December is filled with so many good vibes. It is one of the most special festive months of the year with frosting winter. Amongst this, December’s birth flowers come as a warmth and true delight. Clueless about what a December birth flower signifies? Well, every month has a unique flower associated with it based on the season they bloom their best. For example, violets are generally associated with the month of February, and roses with June, as these are when they bloom at their best. Similarly, the month of December observes the stunning flowers—Narcissus (Paperwhite) and Holly. In these last weeks of the year, presenting December flowers as gifts to your family is a lovely gesture, and one can send it either for Christmas, birthday or New Year. Dive into the symbolic meanings, stories, festive flower arrangements, ideas, etc, of Narcissus and Holly in this blog, and make celebrations more special and meaningful.
The Narcissus: The Blooming Petals of Hope and Rebirth
A stunning flower, Narcissus belongs to a large category, which is often confused with daffodils. The Paperwhite narcissus springs during the winter month and is considered the December birth flower. These can be found in different hues like white, orange, or yellow and exude sweet fragrance. The flower has white petals and an attractive trumpet-shaped center with a petal-like appearance around it.
Meaning and Symbolism:
The flower Narcissus, defines simplicity, self-love, rebirth, renewal, and the victory of the future over the past. It also symbolizes hope and new beginnings in many cultures; it is perfect for a December birthday.
Cultural Significance:
Holding an ancient tale of the legends, Narcissus was the extremely handsome son of the Greek God who ignored the love and emotions of his admirers. As a punishment, he was cursed to admire his own reflection in the lake forever and fall deeply in love with himself. According to the myth, he died and took rebirth as a beautiful flower alongside the river banks. Thus, today, different cultures use the Narcissus flower to convey different sentiments. In the language of flowers during Victorian times, giving Narcissus refers to calling the person their “The One.”
Incorporating Narcissus in Celebrations:
The hearty celebrations require including this gorgeous winter bloom in different flower decorations. You can include the Narcissus flowers in birthday bouquets, arrangements, and decorations. They also make excellent choices for New Year’s parties, especially because they signify a fresh beginning and hope for the year that is coming along.
The Dazzling Holly as December Birth Flower
The cute red berries between the cozy bunch of leaves and the very sight of Holly remind us of Christmas. Holly, a popular December birth flower, can easily be sighted in cold winter gardens. It is not technically a flower, but it is cherished for its pointed leaves and dark red berries that are metaphors for the blood drops of the Son of God.
Meaning and Symbolism:
Holly brings on the festive spirit with a perfect color combination and is associated with the epitome of protection, defense, and prosperity. It is associated with Christmas, symbolizing holy and joyful seasons. Holly’s evergreen leaves represent eternal life and endurance.
Cultural Significance:
Holly has great significance in many cultures across the world. In European tradition, it is used during winter solstice festivals in wreaths, garlands, and decorations to represent the cycle of life and human connection with nature. According to pagan beliefs, it was a symbol of the sun’s return and used to mark the winter solstice.
Incorporating Holly in Celebrations:
Gifting presents with an essence of Holly as a December birth flower would make an exquisite present. Consider Holly-themed gifts and decor for birthday celebrations, like Holly-scented candles, ornaments, themed mugs, cookies, etc. You can also indulge in fun DIY projects with Holly, such as creating wreaths or festive table centrepieces.
Discover the Intriguing Blend Narcissus and Holly for December
Holly is a quintessential christmas flower or plant that represents enduring life and optimism. Meanwhile, Narcissus is symbolic of renewal and hope, making the combination of these a perfect start for a new year. Additionally, implementing both these together is a powerful combination of rebirth (Narcissus) and eternal life (Holly), connoting the balance between change and continuity. The mix of these two is a staple holiday decoration in Western culture, exuding sentiments of the closing year and festive spirit.
Unique Floral Arrangements for December Birthdays
Here are some unique December birthday arrangement ideas with Holly and Narcissus.
- Combine white Narcissus with green Holly leaves and place a few candles for a warm and inviting arrangement.
- Pair yellow Narcissus with gold-painted Holly leaves and red berries for a luxurious and celebratory mood.
- Mix white Narcissus with frosted Holly leaves and a few delicate snowflake decorations for a beautiful and festive vibe.
Fun Facts About December Birth Flowers
Following are a few interesting and fun facts about the December birth flowers:
- Paperwhite Narcissus bulbs often bloom indoors in the winter, making them perfect for holiday gifting.
- Holly’s historical significance is believed to protect good against evil spirits in many cultures.
Caring for December Birth Flowers: Essential Tips
For Narcissus
- Plant bulbs in well-draining soil
- Water and provide indirect sunlight
- Keep indoors at 65-70°F (18-21°C)
- Trim stems every 2-3 days
- Keep in cool water with floral preservative
For Holly
- Plant in well-draining, acidic soil
- Provide partial shade and regular watering
- Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring-fall)