Together, these two July birth flowers capture the duality of the month—energetic zeal and composed mindfulness, reflecting the personality traits of those born under the Cancer zodiac sign.
Whether in a garden or a balcony water feature, larkspur and water lilies infuse July with their beauty and symbolism.
The July Birth Flower Duo - Larkspur and Water Lily
The duo of larkspur and water lily as the July birth flower graces midsummer with elegance. Larkspur, a member of the buttercup family, stands tall with spikes of flowers.

Often found in mixed borders, this perennial species, a classic cottage garden plant, is known for its showily dressed party guest appearance. Conversely, the water lily, from the Nymphaeaceae family, enhances aquatic ecosystems.
Glowing serenely on the water's surface, its teacup-sized flowers, likened to a tea tray with ribbed leaves, bring elegance and calm to July.
The Historical & Cultural Significance of Larkspur and Water Lily
The larkspur and water lily hold deep-rooted significance across various cultures. Larkspur, also known as Delphinium, has a rich historical background. In Greek mythology, larkspur was linked to dolphins believed to carry souls to the 'Elysian Fields', leading to names like lark's claw and dolphin's nose. Its colors signified bravery in Europe, and in Victorian England, it symbolized levity. Native Americans used it medicinally, while European folklore believed it warded off evil spirits.

The water lily, thriving in tropical and temperate regions, symbolizes purity. In ancient Egypt, it was linked to the Sun God Ra. In Hinduism, often called the Indian lotus, it signifies spiritual awakening, associated with deities like Brahma. In Buddhism, it represents wisdom, rising immaculately from muddy waters. These birth month flowers, celebrated across many cultures, highlight their enduring appeal and the boundless beauty they bring to July.

The Origins and Legends of Larkspur's Rich History
Member of the buttercup family, the larkspur stretches its flower lore from Ancient Greece, where its spur resembled a dolphin's nose (delphis), to South America, whose shamans brewed petals as a protective wash against evil spirits. Shakespeare name-checked the spike in The Winter's Tale; Elizabethans hung dried stems above doorways to keep different evil spirits at bay, while the modern growers and breeders still prove the lineage is still evolving.

Symbolic Meaning of the Larkspur
Traditionally, larkspur symbolizes an open heart and ardent attachment, making it a popular choice for romantic bouquets. Larkspur signifies love, positivity, and new beginnings, embodying the essence of strong feelings and the spirited nature of July-born individuals. Its enchanting hues and towering stature emphasize the expression of intense emotions.

Color Symbolism of Larkspur
In floral symbolism, each color of the larkspur narrates a unique sentiment.
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White larkspur symbolizes purity and innocence, ideal for joyous occasions.
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Blue larkspurs represent trust and loyalty, conveying deep respect.
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Pink larkspur embodies a capricious spirit, while purple exudes the charm of first love and elegance.

The Serenity of July Flower of the Month #2: Water Lily
Water lilies thrive in tropical and subtropical freshwater habitats. These beautiful flowers float on the water's surface, creating a harmonious ecosystem. Water lily flowers, including the hardy water lilies and tropical varieties, flower from late spring to early fall. Notable varieties include the Giant Victoria Amazonica, with tea-tray-like flowers, and the blue water lily (Nymphaea caerulea).

The Symbolism Behind the Water Lily
As a July birth month flower, the water lily symbolizes purity and tranquility. These flowers are seen as symbols of rebirth and optimism, emerging beautifully clean from muddy water. In Chinese culture, poets view the plant as a lesson in how to symbolize purity while growing through chaos. In Buddhism, they signify wisdom, reflecting the soul's journey to spiritual awareness. In Hinduism, the water lily, or Indian lotus, represents the infinite potential of the human soul.

The water lily's cycle of retreating underwater at night and re-emerging in the morning light metaphorically represents spiritual renewal. In ancient Egypt, the blue lotus was a sacred flower to the sun god Ra. Priests lowered the flowers beneath muddy water at dusk and raised them at dawn to signal rebirth.
Claude Monet has also immortalised the scene in 250 canvases, proving that a single water lily can convey emotions no other flower can.

Color Symbolism of Water Lily
The color of a water lily flower carries deep symbolic meanings. These birth month flowers are more than just visually appealing; they embody various emotional and spiritual states.

- Pink water lilies often represent romance, friendship, and tenderness, making them perfect for expressing love.
- White water lilies, the most common, symbolize purity and peace, embodying innocence and tranquility.
- Blue water lilies represent depth of feeling and spiritual wisdom, while yellow water lilies symbolize joy and optimism, adding cheer to any water garden.
For this reason, many designers often rank the water lily as one of 'the world's most beautiful flowers.'

Botanical Profile of the July Flowers - Larkspur and Water Lily
Larkspur emerges from late spring to early fall, soaring up to six feet when rooted in well-drained soil and full sun. Trim after the first bloom time to coax new flower buds.
Thanks to internal airways, each water lily leaf floats on the water's surface, shading fish and limiting algae growth in aquatic ecosystems. Hardy water lilies shrug off ice, whereas tropical water lilies glow under warm lights.
On dry ground, Westendorp’s double-petalled Delphinium Kissi® Blush Milka splashes lavender-rose across sturdy six-foot spires, while Nico Wigchert’s snow-white Delphinium Dewi Siberia and Ball SB’s compact, ever-branching Delphinium Trick™ series push the palette into pastel pinks, sunny yellows, and dreamy lilacs.

Out on the water, the hardy peach-scented Nymphaea Colorado perfumes ponds for most of the year, while the sacred Nymphaea lotus (Indian lotus) and the dinner-plate-leafed Victoria amazonica supply nocturnal drama in warmer pools. Together, these standout cultivars prove that July’s birth-flower duo can move beyond myth into diverse gardens, offering textures, fragrances, and hues as multifaceted as midsummer itself.
July Flower Support in Sustainability
Because water lilies symbolize purity, their roots filter nutrients while slow-moving water keeps mosquitoes at bay. Larkspur foliage deters venomous creatures, yet dried stems make a historic blue dye. It's important to balance beauty with caution in this case, as both plants can be toxic if mis-handled.
Ways to Celebrate July Through Body Art and Tattoos
An extraordinary way to celebrate July's birth flower is through artistic tattoos. Many July babies and floral enthusiasts ink these flowers, honoring their birth. Celebrities like Sofia Vergara and Tom Cruise have inspired the trend of floral tattoos. Larkspur and water lily tattoos, with their distinctive shapes and colors, can range from minimalist to intricate designs.

A water lily tattoo might reflect purity and spiritual growth, while a larkspur tattoo could symbolize love and positivity. Larkspur tattoos symbolize a strong bond of love, open hearts, and positivity.
These tattoos can be personalized through color choices or additional symbols. Elements like a small bowl of water or a nectar-filled spur add personal meaning, making these tattoos profound symbols of beauty and individual personality.

Personalization & Meaning Behind July Flower Tattoos
Each July birth flower tattoo carries deep personal significance. For some, it might honor their birth month, while others resonate with the symbolic meanings of larkspur and water lily.
Larkspur tattoos symbolize strong bonds of love, open hearts, and positivity. Water lily tattoos signify purity, peace, and spiritual enlightenment.
These tattoos can be personalized through color choices or additional symbols. Pink larkspur might reflect tenderness, while a white water lily can symbolize calm and purity.
Elements like a small bowl of water or a nectar-filled spur add personal meaning, making these tattoos profound symbols of beauty and individual personality.
Ways to Integrate July Birth Flowers in Everyday Life
A delightful way to enjoy the charm of larkspur and water lilies is by incorporating them into your home decor. Arrange a fresh bouquet of larkspur on your dining table or in your living room. Their colors brighten up your space, and their sweet fragrance infuses the air with calmness.
If you have an outdoor pond or a small water feature, cultivate water lilies to create a breathtaking display, as their floating flowers and lily pads deliver a sense of tranquility to your outdoor area. For indoors, a water lily in a small bowl of water serves as a unique centerpiece, celebrating your love for these flowers.

A potted larkspur or an indoor water lily plant in a professional workspace can also uplift the ambiance, enhance productivity, and foster creativity. Larkspur's symbolism of strong attachment and an open heart is a great reminder of good relations with colleagues, creating a supportive work environment.
Gifting July birth flower plants and ornaments can also be a thoughtful gesture, establishing deeper business relationships.

Celebrating Every July Birth with July Flowers
Yes, July is represented by two captivating flowers - larkspur and water lily. Each flower carries unique significance, depicting the diverse traits of July-born individuals. Whether you float a single water lily on the water surface, weave spires into wild bouquets, or ink a quiet birth flower tattoo, this duo will keep midsummer legends alive for generations.

Remember, the July birth flower pairing thrives on balance: the choice of birth flower may depend on individual preference or cultural significance, with both larkspur and water lily offering unique beauty and meaning.
Feature image by @winnie.junefloral.