July Birth Flower: History, Meaning, and Gift Ideas
The July birth flower is a month that overflows with life—longer days, blooming gardens, and the smell of summer in the air. It’s no surprise, then, that this vibrant month is represented by two specular birth flowers: Larkspur and the Water Lily. These flowers are not only stunning to look at, but they carry deep meaning, fascinating histories, and are garden favorites for a reason.
Let’s explore what makes these July bloomers so special—and how you can grow them in your own backyard.
Larkspur- A Brief History
Represents strong bonds of love, positivity, and an open heart. They are often associated with the Victorian-era sentiment of affection. They come in various shades, including blue, purple, pink, and white, making them a popular choice for July birthday bouquets.
Water Lily- Brief History
Symbolizes purity, innocence, and, due to its ability to bloom in water, spiritual enlightenment and rebirth. They are often associated with calmness and serenity, reflecting the relaxed, warm spirit of midsummer.
Why You Should Grow July Birth Flower
Now that you know the flowers have you ever considered growing them? How fun would it be to have a garden full of the birth flowers of all your loved ones? Maybe your children, siblings, or loved ones that have moved on from this life. You can be in your garden and remember them, or maybe feel them with you. How healing for the soul, or just fun! Your front yard could depict your family without a family photo. Flowers have such a healing effect on the soul. My front yard is dedicated to flowers. Flowers I love and flowers that the people I love, love. Shasta daisies for my mother in law, lilacs for my grandma Mary, daffodils for my grandma Oda, hydrangeas for my mom, and peonies for me. Grow flowers that have meaning, and I think growing birth flowers is a great place to start.
How to Grow Larkspur
Larkspur is a cool-season annual that grows best when planted early, since it prefers chilly temperatures and struggles in heat. Direct sow seeds outdoors in late fall or very early spring because they need a period of cold to germinate well; simply scatter seeds over loosened, well-draining soil in full sun and lightly cover them, as they don’t like being buried deeply. Keep the soil evenly moist until seedlings establish, then water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering. Thin plants to give them good airflow, which helps prevent disease, and avoid heavy fertilizing since rich soil can cause weak stems. With minimal care, larkspur will reward you with tall spikes of delicate blooms perfect for cutting, and letting some flowers go to seed often results in beautiful self-sown plants the following year.
How to Grow Water Lilies
Water lilies grow best in still, sunny water and are surprisingly easy to care for once established. Plant them in wide aquatic containers filled with heavy garden soil (not potting mix), placing the tuber at a slight angle with the growing tip just above the soil surface, then top with a thin layer of gravel to keep soil from floating away. Slowly lower the container into a pond or water feature so the crown sits 6–18 inches below the water surface, depending on the variety. Choose a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight daily, fertilize occasionally with aquatic plant tablets during the growing season, and remove yellowing leaves or spent blooms to keep plants healthy. With warm temperatures and steady sunlight, water lilies will spread and produce beautiful floating leaves and colorful flowers throughout summer.
July Birth Flower Gift Ideas
Are you a July Birthday or have a loved one with a July birthday? I have come up with a few fun, beautiful and cute ideas to make your July birthdays feel special.
- Larkspur or water lily necklace or jewelry
- Embroider a larkspur or water lily flower on an article of clothing or hat
- Sticker of a larkspur or water lily
- Larkspur or water lily bookmark
- Books about water lilies, one that I found is called Waterlily in Bloom: A Beginner’s Guide To Appreciating And Growing Waterlily (Growing Healthy Aquatic Plants)
- Journal with larkspur or water lily on it
- The actual plant or seeds
- Larkspur or water lily coloring book
Final Thoughts: Why July’s Flower Matters
No matter what you do, enjoy this time of month. I have found focusing on what I love, flowers, and the relationships make this month special. Happy Birthday to all of the July birthdays. I hope you feel special this month because you are a larkspur or a water lily.
As always,
grow flowers to heal the soul,
Beth
