Have you ever thought that every month has a birth flower and that each one has a special meaning? Like people, birth flowers are distinctive – filled with significance and wonderful stories. So whether you’re looking for a creative gift for someone’s birthday, or just want to add a personal touch to a flower arrangement for any occasion, our Birth Flower Guide will help you find out which flower is uniquely theirs.
AUGUST: GLADIOLUS
The August Birth Flower is Gladiolus. The Latin term ‘gladiolus’ is rich in meaning. The Roman sword was called gladius and a diminutive one – gladiolus. Linnaeus is attributed with naming the gladiolus and it is suggested that he borrowed from Pliny’s writings which referred to the plant’s sword-shaped leaves. The same word is the root for the word gladiator who was a soldier who “lived or died by the sword.” So, it’s no wonder that a gladiolus, sharing its name with warriors, symbolizes “strength of character”.
The history and traditions surrounding gladiolus are fascinating. There are plenty of myths and legends about the origins of this flower. The august birth flower is said to have sprung up from the blood of a person who died violently. When Hyacinthus was killed by Apollo’s reckless discus toss, Ovid said that the flowers that sprang up from his body were hyacinths. However, some argue that Ovid was wrong and that the blossoms were actually gladioli.
Another story about a death that yielded gladiolus features the goddess Demeter. Demeter had a sacred grove 
near Thessaly. An irreverent man named Erisichthon would gather his firewood among the sacred trees. Some worshippers tried to stop him and he killed one by cutting of his head. Demeter caused sword-shaped plants to grow on the location and she named them gladiolus.
Like so many flowers, the august birth flower speaks of many things. A holiday bouquet with gladiolus can mean strength of character, sincerity, generosity or natural grace. That’s why this flower is so popular not only in birthday bouquets, but also in wedding bouquets and romantic bouquets.
Create an unforgettable birthday for your beloved one, send a holiday gift basket complimented with a birthday bouquet with gladiolus which sword-like blossoms will pierce the infatuated heart with its incredible beauty.
