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What Are The December Birth Flowers?

Narcissus and Holly: Winter's dynamic duo, adding elegance and festive charm.

By: THURSD. | 29-11-2023 | 10 min read
Floral Education Flowers
December Birth Flower - Thursd Article - Header Image

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.

 

one of the two december birth flowers - paperwhite narcissus
Photo by @annotonellissima

 

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.

 

lady with blooming white narcissus flower
Narcissus Paperwhite by @bloomandseeds.se

 

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:

 

Narcissus Paperwhite by Robbie Caponetto - flowers growing from paperwhite bulb
Narcissus Paperwhite at Southernliving.com. Photo by Robbie Caponetto, styling by Hargett Miller.

 

Color Symbolism of Narcissus

The narcissus comes in various colors, each adding its own meaning to this birth flower. Traditionally, narcissus flower 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:

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.

 

December Holly flower bear clusters of red berries
Ilex Verticillata, a.k.a. the winterberry, is also a type of holly. Photo by @thecolvinco.it

 

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 - december birth flower
Photo by @ranightengale

 

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 a 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.

 

Holly berry in hands
A bunch of holly by @louisegrenadine

 

Fun, Historical, and Interesting Facts About Holly

Here are some fun facts about holly that you might find fascinating:

 

growing holly - december birth flower at home
Photo by @wilding.at.home

 

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 tottoos capture the essence of December, allowing individuals to carry a piece of their birth month symbiolism 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.

 

Holly flower tattos - December birth flower tattoo
Picture by @atman.tattoo

 

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 own meanings that reflect their personal journey.

These tattoos not only celebrate the beauty of December 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.

 

narcissus flower tattoos
Picture by @yeowool_tattooer

 

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:

By embracing these flowers, we touch a tradition celebrating year-end promises and new beginnings.

 

Narcissus Paperwhite by flowertothepeopleig
Narcissus Paperwhite by @flowertothepeopleig

 

Integrating the Two December Birth Flowers Into Your Professional Setting

In the rhythm of everyday work life, subtle gestues like introducing the December birth month flower, narcissus, and holly, can uplift professional spaces. Here's how:

 

Header image by @_.flowerpark._ and feature image by Southern Living.

FAQ

What are the two December birth flowers?

The December birth month flowers are Narcissus and Holly. Narcissus, and in it, particularly the paperwhite variety, symbolizes new beginnings, hope, and introspection. Holly, with its glossy dark green leaves and bright red berries, stands for protection, resilience, and festive cheer. These two flowers represent different but complementary themes of warmth and renewal during the winter season, making them perfect symbols for December birthdays and celebrations.

Why are there two birth flowers for December?

December has two birth flowers - Narcissus and Holly - because they capture distinct yet harmonious aspects of the winter season. Narciossus embodies pourity, hope, and the spirit of new beginnings, while holly symbolizes protection, strength, and the joy of winter festivities. The pairing offers a broader, more inclusive representation of the themes relevant to December, which range from introspection and renewal to warmth and festive cheer, making it a fitting tribute to the season's diverse beauty.

How can you care for December birth flowers?

Caring for December birth month flowers involves understanding their unique requirements. Narcissus, particularly paperwhites, thrive when grown indoors in a bright, sunny spot and well-draining soil. They require regular watering to encourage blooming. Holly, on the other hand, prefers to be planted outdoors in slightly acidic soil and can grow well in both full sun or partial shade. Regular watering is necessary, but be sure to avoid waterlogged conditions. Both flowers require some attention, but they reward care with beauty and resilience.

What makes December birth flowers unique compared to other birth month flowers?

The uniqueness of December birth flowers lies in their ability to thrive in the coldest part of the year, reflecting themes of endurance and beauty during adversity. Narcissus flowers, with its delicate star-shaped blooms, symbolize hope and renewal, even when other flowers are dormant. Holly, with its evergreen leaves and bright red berries, offers festive warmth and resilience. Together, they embody the contrasting yet complementary aspects of winter, setting them apart from the warmer-toned and softer-seasoned flowers of other months.

Are December birth flowers suitable for gifting during the holiday season?

Absolutely, December birth month flowers are highly suitable for gifting during the holiday season. Narcissus represents new beginnings and good wishes, making it an ideal gift to celebrate the end of one year and the start of another. Holly, with its bright red berries and dark green leaves, is deeply associated with festive decorations and traditions, symbolizing warmth and protection. Together, they make thoughtful gifts that capture the spirit of the holiday season while offering beauty and meaning.

Can narcissus and holly be grown indoors or in colder climates?

Yes, both narcissus and holly can be grown in colder climates, though they have different needs. Narcissus, particularly paperwhites, can be grown indoors, making them a popular choice for wintertime blooms. They require well-draining soil and a sunny spot to thrive. Holly, being a hardy evergreen, does well outdoors even in harsh winter conditions and prefers full sun or partial shade. Holly's resilience and the ability of narcissus to adapt to indoor conditions make both flowers perfect for colder months.Q

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