Russian Flora Blog

A captivating pompom-like flower, marigolds are some of the most exciting among fall blooms. Also known as the “herb of the sun” or “sun’s bride,” marigolds play a prominent role in many celebrations worldwide. The bold and vibrant fall-colored shades of orange, yellow and burgundy also make it a popular choice in seasonal bouquets. But did you know that these beauties are also the October birth flower?

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People in Mexico enjoy a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors from beautiful blooming plants that grow there year-round. Local people seem unable to exist without flowers in their everyday lives. Home gardens, markets, shrines and altars blaze with colorful bouquets and smothered in blossoms during holidays. There are usually bouquets and flower pots in every Mexican home, any time of the year. Flowers are among the best gifts to send to Mexico (coming close only to tequila). Here is our guide to Mexico’s most popular flowers and when you should send them.

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The perfect representation of fall, the aster is officially September’s birth flower. As a symbol of powerful love, it is also the 20th wedding anniversary flower.

It is difficult not to fall in love with these beautiful fall blooms. Known for its star-shaped flowers, aster is a genus of flowering plants in the Asteraceae family. Of particular note, they are related to sunflowers and their yellow centers are is made of 300 tiny florets. Also, asters come in almost all colors of the rainbow including vibrant reds and oranges, soft purple and pink and even shades of blue. This helps them fit perfectly into any birthday bouquet or flower arrangement.

What Does the Name Aster Mean?

The aster is an emblem of Venus, the goddess of love. But there are many legends explaining the origins of the aster flower. According to Greek mythology, the goddess Asteria (the Titan goddess of nocturnal oracles and shooting stars), who was deeply in love with stars, got upset that they appeared only in the sky and not on earth. Having realized that, she began crying and each of her tears that reached the ground turned into a star-shaped aster flower. This is how the flower was named after goddess Asteria, with “aster” meaning star.

Another myth has it that asters started blooming when Virgo scattered stardust over the Earth. Other legends associated with the flower all explain their shape, which resembles the blinking and twinkling of stars.

More Aster Flower Facts

• – September birth flowers are indigenous to North America but are also found in Europe, South America, and Asia.
• – Asters belong to the second largest family of flowers, Asteraceae. There are over 600 varieties within the Aster genusm but we are familiar with only two subspecies of these blooms (the New York and New England).
• – In ancient times people used to burn Asters. Because of their positive symbolism associated with patience, good fortune and female energy, people believed their smoke could ward off evil and negative energy. They have also been used medicinally to treat migraines, colds and muscle aches.
• – Aster is a symbol of the Hungarian Revolution (1956). It was even named “Aster revolution” because all the participants were wearing asters in their lapels during the event.
• – A special symbol of honor, asters are used in France to remember soldiers. Placing an aster on the grave of a fallen soldier is the way to demonstrate that he was killed in battle.

What does September’s Birth Flower Mean?

The September birth flower has a variety of meanings, generally representing love, wisdom and faith. But in the language of flowers each shade carries its own symbolism:

• – Purple asters are the most popular. This color symbolizes wisdom and royalty. Bouquets featuring purple asters make a perfect 20th wedding anniversary gift.
• – White asters​ signify purity and innocence and are usually included in bridal and wedding bouquets.
• – Red asters​ stand for undying devotion and are a good (and more affordable) alternative to roses on Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and Women’s Day.
• – Pink asters represent sensitivity and love. Flower arrangements featuring these flowers are great for a number of romantic occasions.

What is September’s Birthstone?

Sapphire, the birthstone for September, is a very popular gem and has been cherished for thousands of years. Well-known for its rich violet-blue hues (the word “Sapphire” means blue in Greek), this ultimate blue gemstone also comes in a rainbow of other colors including yellow, orange and even pink (one of the rarest).

Since Ancient times, people have believed that September’s birthstone has protective properties. It represents nobility, loyalty, sincerity and faith. For centuries, sapphires have adorned royalty and clergymen’s robes. Now sapphires are one of the most popular engagement gems in addition to being the 5th and 45th wedding anniversary’s gemstone.

Sapphire is found in many countries around the world including the US, Australia, and Thailand. The purest varieties come from Myanmar (Burma), India and Sri Lanka. A sapphire’s price depends on how pure the blue in the gem is.

If you want to send an extravagant birthday gift or surprise your significant other with a beautiful engagement ring, send a sapphire ring. Its unique beauty will make it a gift to remember!

Zodiac & Birth Month Flowers for September

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Independent and meticulous, Virgos have a strong need for perfection. When picking a birthday gift for this zodiac sign, it’s important to put some extra thought into the presentation. First impressions matter, so make sure your gift wrap looks nice and neat.

Being timid in nature, Virgos usually prefer pastel colors and simple designs. Leave an extravagant bouquet featuring bright colors to a charismatic Libra. There’s nothing a Virgo would appreciate more than a delicate arrangement of soft-petalled tulips, airy hydrangea or seasonal flowers including aster, this zodiac sign’s birth flower.

A Country Garden Bouquet is a perfect example of the best flower choices for a Virgo on their birthday. Subtle pink shades of romantic peonies, tender asters, lush roses and playful gerberas bring a garden of positive emotions to your recipient. Complement the flowers with a box of delicious gourmet chocolate and satisfy their craving for sweetness.

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Gentle and gracious, balanced Libra is among the most social and popular zodiac signs. The people born under the Sign Libra are naturally kind and fair. They appreciate beauty and strive for harmony and peace.

To appeal to this side of Libra’s character, give them a lucky bamboo or a bonsai tree. It will not only please their eyes for years to come, but also encourage the great energy and balance they are always looking for. In addition, add a scented candle – an ultimate home accessory that will tantalize their sense of smell.

Most importantly, Libras are a classy lot with refined taste. They will love something exotic and stylish like this stunning Romantic Bouquet. Featuring charming white roses, exquisite lavender alstroemerias, and a selection of seasonal flowers, the composition will bring warmth into any home, much like the charismatic zodiac sign.

If you have a friend or family member celebrating their birthday in September, make sure asters are part of the flower arrangement you send for their special day. The stunning September birth flower will demonstrate your thoughtfulness and bring your dear recipient good fortune.

Want to learn more about Birth Month Flowers?

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One of the top 20 tourist destinations worldwide, Greece is well known for its ancient civilization and breathtaking landscapes. People from all over the world come here to celebrate the most important events in their lives! Everything from weddings and honeymoons to birthdays to anniversaries is lovelier in Greece.

This vibrant country observes holidays with lavish parties that celebrate life and love. Join in and embrace the local festive spirit by sending a flower bouquet to Greece. If you’re not familiar with Greek holidays and wonder about the best times to send flowers to Greece here’s your complete guide.

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Tall and majestic, August’s birth flower – the gladiolus – captures the essence of warm summer days. Playful ruffled leaves of a trumpet-like flower feature striking combinations and patterns of color – from delicate pastels to vibrant reds and purple.

Dramatic gladiolus flowers that bloom during July and August look impressively statuesque in any floral arrangement. Birthday wishes or declaration of love; acknowledgment or remembrance, gladiolus is the perfect choice for any occasion. Though you might have already fallen in love with August’s birth flower’s stoic beauty, there are many interesting facts about gladiolus that will help you get to know these beautiful blooms even better.

Image by Lisa Zins

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The island of Cyprus is beautiful. With its sprawling landscape dotted with gardens in every imaginable free space, it’s only natural for its people to be in love with flowers. Flowers and bouquets are the most popular gift in Cyprus, perfect for every occasion, and everybody. One of the things a bit unique about Cyprus is that flowers are given just as often to men as they are to women. Let’s be honest, that’s a really sweet way to be. But what are the best flowers to send in Cyprus? Keep reading to find out.

Image by michieru

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The FIFA World Cup, one of the biggest sporting events in the world, is happening this year in Russia. The excitement for these soccer matches is already well underway! If you’re lucky enough to be travelling in Russia for the world’s greatest football (or soccer, if you please) game: First, you need to know we envy you, and second, you don’t want to miss our insider’s guide. It will help you enjoy World Cup 2018 to its fullest.

From the hosts kicking off the tournament and unexpectedly hammering Saudi Arabia 5-0, to Germany’s historic failure: losing to South Korea and not making it past the opening round, World Cup 2018 has been full of surprises and promises many more! Since you don’t want to miss this adventure, here’s what you need to know about traveling in Russia:

Image by Nazionale Calcio

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Floral scents for men, really?

Floral notes are typically associated with femininity, so they aren’t the most popular choices for men’s fragrance. Most guys won’t get too excited about smelling like a rose or violet. Some of them might even get offended if you give them a perfume that says it has floral notes in it. But there are actually plenty of popular floral scents for men. In fact, though not advertised, pretty much all fragrances for him have florals in them. That’s right, every man’s go-to classic has a little hint of tuberose, geranium or other “girly” note and there’s nothing wrong with it. But what are the best ones? Here are our picks for the most popular floral scents for men.

Image by Neal Fowler

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