December is a month of snowy scenes, twinkling lights, and festivities. It conjures up images of snow-clad 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 Month Flower Duo: Narcissus Paperwhite And Holly
For those lucky to be born in December, they are represented by two contrasting yet complementary blooms. Narcissus, a.k.a. daffodil, is the first symbol of hope, with a sweet fragrance and trumpet-like structure. Holly, on the other hand, evokes a sense of tradition with its red berries and glossy green leaves. Together, they signify transition and balance, providing a perfect floral representation for those born in December - a blend of grace, tenacity, and hope.
The Historical & Cultural Significance of Narcissus and Holly
Narcissus and holly are December month 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 Month Flower #1: Narcissus
Scientifically known as Narcissus Pseudonarcissus, the daffodil blooms in winter, embodying the spirit of those born in December: resilient, graceful, and bright. This flower represents their indomitable spirit and radiant personality, standing strong and finding a reflection of themselves in this elegant bloom.
Symbolic Meaning of Narcissus
Narcissus is a flower rich in symbolism, representing new beginnings and hope. It teaches us about self-awareness and self-appreciation, making it relevant for those born in December who stand on the threshold of a new year filled with aspirations.
Color Symbolism 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 in life
Fun, Historical, and Interesting Facts About Narcissus
Narcissus boasts a vibrant history, symbolizing self-love, renewal, and hope.
- 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 is toxic
- In floriography, the narcissus conveys respect and admiration, making it a poignant gift
The Charm of December Flower of the Month #2: Holly
In winter, holly shines with evergreen leaves and radiant berries. It's paired with narcissus as December's birth flower, symbolizing strength and resilience. Scientifically known as Ilex Aquifolium, holly adorns homes and gardens, representing the enduring spirit of December-born souls.
The Symbolism Behind the Holly
Holly is historically linked to festivities and is seen as a protector. Its sharp edges ward off unwanted spirits. Holly symbolizes rebirth and renewal in Celtic traditions and drives away evil spirits during the Yuletide season in pagan culture.
Holly's sharp leaves represent Christ's crown of thorns, and its red berries symbolize sacrifice and salvation. People born in December are often represented by holly, known for their resilience and ability to bring warmth and light to others.
Color Symbolism of Holly
Holly, with its rich palette, offers more than just green leaves and red berries:
- The deep green symbolizes life's continuity, representing perseverance and the grace to handle challenges
- Vivid red berries stand for passion, love, and vitality while cautioning the balance of allure and danger due to their poisonous nature
- The less-known cream flowers convey purity and understated elegance, capturing the zest for life often found in December-born individuals
Fun, Historical, and Interesting Facts About Holly
Holly, the iconic December month flower, holds deep historical and festive significance, embodying the radiant energy and unwavering strength of December-born individuals.
- Ancient Druids adorned homes with holly during winter solstice for protection and good fortune, valuing its evergreen nature
- Romans gifted holly during Saturnalia, a winter festival, as a token of goodwill
- 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
- With over 400 species, holly's adaptability is evident worldwide
- Holly wreaths on doors, a centuries-old tradition, welcome guests with flowers during Christmas
- Holly berries feed birds in winter but are toxic to humans and pets
- Dense, pale holly wood is used to craft instruments like violins
The Artistic Expression of December Birth Month Flower Tattoos
A December's chill breathes life into the festive season, and many choose to wear their birth month flowers with pride and artistry, not just in vases but as inked masterpieces on their skin. Tattoos, a timeless form of self-expression, find a harmonious blend with the December birth month flower symbols, providing a profound connection to one's roots, identity, and the stories they wish to tell.
Celebrating December Through Body Art
Tattoos are a form of self-expression. They pay homage to important moments, memories, or milestones in one's life. Inking the December birth month flower showcases a deeper bond with nature's cycles and the enduring spirit of winter. narcissus is a beautiful choice for a delicate tattoo, while holly can be stylized into a dramatic piece.
Personalization and Meaning Behind December Flower Tattoo
Every tattoo tells a tale, and when it comes to the flower for December-born individuals, the narratives are as diverse as they are heartfelt.
- The Narcissus Tattoo: Symbolizing self-love and rebirth, it fuses self-awareness with mythological roots. Enhance with personal touches like birthdates or initials
- The Holly Tattoo: Representing resilience and festive spirit, it shines amidst winter's embrace. Complement with elements like snowflakes or cardinals for a unique twist
- Combination Tattoos: A harmonious blend of narcissus petals with robust holly showcases life's duality. Infuse stars or winter themes for a nod to December, adding depth to one's identity and journey
Beyond their aesthetics, tattoos represent identity, journey, and month, telling a significant story.
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 & 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
Wearable Expressions: Imagine accessories like scarves, bags, or jewelry imprinted with narcissus and holly patterns. They subtly nod to December's botanical wonders - Festive Touch: Holly berry wreaths, complemented by narcissus, elevate holiday decorations. For December events, boutonnieres and corsages add personal elegance
- Artistic & 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 December Birth Flower 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 & 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
Frequently Asked Questions About December's Birth Flower
The allure of flowers, especially those representing birth months, has always been a topic of interest for floral enthusiasts. Let's dive into some commonly asked queries about these December month flowers.
What Are the December Birth Month Flowers?
December boasts not one but two flowers to represent its wintry charm. The first is the narcissus, also known as Paperwhite, which captures the essence of rebirth and the promise of forthcoming spring; Holly, with its iconic red berries, is synonymous with festive cheer and the protective nature of wintertime evergreens.
Why Are There Two Birth Flowers for December?
Flowers hold symbolic meaning across cultures, with each month having its own regional flower. December has two flowers, representing diverse traditions and celebrations. They embody December's balance of reflection and celebration, from quiet snowfalls to jingle bells, and promise of new beginnings to the spirit of the festive season.
Sources and References
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- Thiselton-Dyer, T.F., 1889. The Folklore of Plants. Chatto and Windus.
- Rossetti, D.G., 2021. The Day Dream (1880) by Dante Gabriel Rossetti. Edward Burne-Jones on Nature: Physical and Metaphysical Realms, p.244.
- Holly - Species and Range. Wikipedia (or https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holly)
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Header image by @_.flowerpark._ and feature image by Southern Living.
