December is a month of snowy scenes, twinkling lights, and festivities. It conjures up images of snowclad landscapes, cozy firesides, and celebrations. As the year draws to a close, two botanical wonders bloom: Narcissus and Holly. They defy the frosty conditions and offer a blend of beauty, resilience, tradition, and the warmth of joy.
The December Birth Flower Duo: Narcissus Paperwhite and Holly
The pairing of Narcissus and Holly as December birth flowers may seem like an interesting contrast - a delicate floral bulb paired with a hardy evergreen shrub. Yet, they perfectly encapsulate the different facets of wintertime beauty.
Paperwhite narcissus represents the floral side of December, with its star-shaped flowers blooming even in colder climates when most other flowers cannot. Holly, on the other hand, is an evergreen shrub that stands out with its red berries and dark green leaves, making it a classic symbol of protection and good fortune.
Both Holly and Narcissus have stories tied to winter traditions and lore. They each carry a significant meaning - the narcissus genus represents rebirth and hope, while Holly is deeply intertwined with cultural practices during the holiday season and winter solstice. Together, they symbolize both the delicate and resilient aspects of the natural world during the winter months.
The Historical and Cultural Significance of Narcissus and Holly
Narcissus and Holly are December birth flowers that represent transformation, protection, hope, and celebration. Narcissus has its roots in Greek mythology and is revered as a symbol of rebirth and new beginnings.
Holly has been celebrated for centuries and is a symbol of hope and continuous life. These flowers are a bridge to ancient stories and beliefs, reminding us of nature's gifts in the coldest months.
The Beauty of December Birth Flower #1: Narcissus
The first of the December birth flowers, Narcissus, specifically the paperwhite narcissus or narcissus papyraceus, is loved for its beauty and adaptability. Known for its striking star shaped flowers and distinctive sweet fragrance, narcissus makes for a wonderful addition to winter gardens and indoor spaces. This birth flower is particularly known for its ability to bloom indoors and thrive even in colder climates. With just the right care - such as forcing paperwhite bulbs in a warm, sunny environment - these flowers can add life to any setting during the winter months.
Symbolic Meaning of Narcissus
Though the December skies may often be gray, narcissus lights up the scene with shades that resonate with the moods of winter. Each color carries a tale:
- White Narcissus: pure and innocent, like a snow-covered landscape.
- Yellow Narcissus: joyful and positive, like the warmth of a winter hearth.
- Cream Narcissus: elegant and sophisticated, appreciating the subtler beauties of life.
Color Symbolism of Narcissus
The narcissus comes in various colors, each adding its own meaning to this birth flower. Traditionally, narcissus flowers are white or yellow. The white narcissus, particularly the paperwhite narcissus, symbolizes purity and elegance, while the yellow narcissus is linked to positivity and new beginnings. The cheerful yellow color makes it an ideal flower to uplift spirits during the dark winter days, offering a bright spot even in the coldest of seasons.
Fun, Historical, and Interesting Facts About Narcissus
The narcissus has a rich history that is filled with many interesting tidbits:
- Greeks believed the narcissus sprouted where Goddess Demeter's tears fell, mourning her daughter.
- From ancient Rome to now, this flower has inspired poets and writers with its beauty.
- The ancient Egyptians revered it as a symbol of both beauty and death. In some cultures, narcissus heralds the nearing spring, marking winter's end with festivals.
- It's a cherished housewarming gift, thought to bring good fortune to new homes.
- Historically, narcissus has been used in traditional medicine, including Alzheimer's treatments.
- Though beautiful, ingesting the narcissus bulb can result in toxic effects.
- In floriography, the narcissus conveys respect and admiration, making it a poignant gift.
The Charm of December Birth Flower of the Month #2: Holly
Holly, the second of the December birth flowers, is a plant that is both striking and symbolically rich. Known for its glossy dark green leaves and bright red berries, Holly has been cherished as a symbol of hope, protection, and resilience. The holly plant is commonly used in wintertime decorations, particularly during the holiday season, bringing festive cheer to homes when other plants have lost their foliage. Its hardy nature allows it to thrive in full sun or partial shade, making it adaptable to various environments.
Holly symbolizes protection and has long been used to ward off evil spirits. This association stems from its sharp thorns, which were believed to fend off negative influences. The holly plant's ability to stay green throughout the harsh winter months also represents resilience and strength.
The Symbolism Behind the Holly
The symbolism of Holly is deeply rooted in cultural and spiritual beliefs. For centuries, it has been a symbol of defense and goodwill. Its sharp thorns worn by the plant were thought to protect homes from harm, while the bright red berries were believed to attract positive energy and blessings. In Celtic traditions, Holly was seen as a sacred plant, revered during the winter solstice for its ability to retain its vitality through the cold.
Holly is also connected to Christian symbolism, where it represents the crown of thorns worn by Jesus and the red berries symbolize the drops of blood. This link has made Holly an important plant in Christmas traditions, where it signifies hope, renewal, and the promise of better days ahead.
Color Symbolism of Holly
The colors of Holly - its deep green leaves and vivid red berries - each hold their own symbolic significance. The dark green leaves of Holly symbolize growth, renewal, and steadfast nature, even in the face of adversity. The red berries symbolize warmth, protection, and the joy of the holiday season. Together, these colors embody the spirit of winter festivities, representing both the hardships and the warmth that come with the season.
Fun, Historical, and Interesting Facts About Holly
Here are some fun facts about holly that you might find fascinating:
- English holly, scientifically known as ilex aquifolium, is the type most commonly associated with holiday decorations.
- Holly is a state tree in Delaware, reflecting its historical importance and its usage in festive decor.
- In ancient Rome, Holly was given as a gift during the festival of Saturnalia, a tradition that inspired the use of Holly during Christmas.
- The holly plant has been cultivated for centuries not only for its beauty but also for its resilience. It has been used as a protective hedge due to its dense, prickly leaves.
- Ancient Druids adorned homes with holly during winter solstice for protection and good fortune, valuing its evergreen nature.
- European folklore associated holly with protection from lightning and evil spirits.
- An old belief suggests holly's leaf texture predicts the severity of the upcoming winter.
- Holly wreaths on doors, a centuries-old tradition, are used to welcome guests with flowers during Christmas.
The Artistic Expression of December Birth Month Flower Tattoos
For those seeking a personal way to connect with the December birth flowers, flower tattoos featuring narcissus and holly can be a meaningful choice. These tattoos capture the essence of December, allowing individuals to carry a piece of their birth month symbolism wherever they go. Whether it's the delicate petals of narcissus flowers or the striking leaves and berries of holly, these tattoos are filled with rich symbolism and personal meaning.
Celebrating December Through Body Art
Choosing a birth flower tattoo is a beautiful way to celebrate your birth month or simply to express admiration for the unique beauty of December birth flowers. A holly tattoo can symbolize protection, strength, and resilience, while a narcissus tattoo, may represent new beginnings and self-awareness. The combination of holly leaves and red berries or the delicate elegance of narcissus petals can make for a stunning design that tells a story.
Personalization and Meaning Behind December Flower Tattoo
The beauty of birth flower tattoos lies in their ability to be personalized. Some may choose to add elements like dates, names, or other symbols to make the tattoo even more meaningful. The paperwhite bulbs of narcissus can represent purity and hope, while the dark green leaves of holly may symbolize the ability to stay strong through adversity. Whether it's a single bloom or a dozen flowers, a birth flower tattoo can be as unique as the individual wearing it, filled with their own meanings that reflect their personal journey.
These tattoos not only celebrate the beauty of December's birth flowers but also serve as a reminder of the traits they symbolize - resilience, protection, love, and renewal. The versatility in design and the deep meanings attached to each flower make these tattoos a lasting tribute to the spirit of December.
Embracing the Beauty of the December Flower in Everyday Life
December is a month of introspection, celebration, and anticipation. As the year draws to a close, the world outside might seem barren, with landscapes painted in chilly hues of gray and brown.
Such tenacity and beauty need not be limited to gardens or wild meadows; they can find a home in our daily lives, gracing our spaces and moments with their allure.
Integrating the December Birth Flower Into Your Life
December, with its enchanting narcissus and robust holly, offers myriad ways to weave these flowers into our daily tapestry:
- Tablescapes and Decor: Combine narcissus and sprigs of holly as rustic centerpieces for winter feasts. Meanwhile, windowsills adorned with these flowers add nature-inspired tranquility to home interiors.
- Personal Sanctuary: The morning aroma of a bedside narcissus invigorates, while those with a green thumb can cultivate this December month flower in garden corners for continuous joy.
- Festive Touch: Holly berry wreaths, complemented by narcissus, elevate holiday decorations. For December events, boutonnieres and corsages add personal elegance.
- Artistic and Literary Connections: Drawing, painting, or reading about these flowers enhances our bond with them.
- Gifts with Heart: For December birthdays, bouquets of both flowers epitomize thoughtful gifting and seasonal beauty.
By embracing these flowers, we touch a tradition celebrating year-end promises and new beginnings.
Integrating the Two December Birth Flowers Into Your Professional Setting
In the rhythm of everyday work life, subtle gestures like introducing the December birth month flower, narcissus, and holly, can uplift professional spaces. Here's how:
- Reception Areas: Display an arrangement of white narcissus with holly sprigs for a sophisticated welcome.
- Desks and Personal Spaces: A potted narcissus or bouquet offers a refreshing workspace ambiance.
- Meeting Rooms: Centerpieces with holly and narcissus can invigorate discussions.
- Corporate Gifting: Consider narcissus bulb kits or holly plants for December celebrations.
- Office Landscaping: Blend narcissus beds with holly bushes for a tranquil retreat.
- Event Decor: Incorporate these flowers for year-end event themes, merging aesthetics with nature's rhythm.
Header image by @_.flowerpark._ and feature image by Southern Living.
