May is the month of flowers. The air feels lighter, the trees turn green, and the ground fills with colourful blooms. If you’re born in May, you’re lucky to have not one but two meaningful birth flowers. These are the May birth flower duo: Lily of the Valley and Hawthorn.
Each one holds stories, emotions, and traditions that go back hundreds of years. Some say one represents gentle love, while the other speaks of strength and protection. Let’s explore what makes the birth month flowers for May so special.
What Is the May Birth Flower?
The May month birth flower is actually a pair:
- Lily of the Valley
- Hawthorn
Together, these blooms represent joy, renewal, and emotional depth. One is soft and fragrant, while the other is strong and tied to folklore. Both are meaningful in their own way.
When people ask about the flower of month May, these two are the answer. They capture everything the month stands for — freshness, growth, and the start of something new.
Lily of the Valley – The Sweet Symbol of May
Lily of the Valley is a soft-looking plant with little bell-shaped white flowers. They hang gently from thin green stems and give off a sweet scent. They bloom early in the season, making them one of the most beloved flower May month choices.
This flower looks delicate, but its meaning is deep.
History of Lily of the Valley
Long ago, in Greek mythology, the god Apollo was said to have planted these flowers to soften the path for his muses. In another legend, a forest nymph turned into this flower to escape unwanted attention. That’s why Lily of the Valley can also mean quiet strength or secret affection.
In Christian stories, the flower is called “Our Lady’s Tears.” It was believed to have grown where the Virgin Mary cried. The flower became a symbol of sorrow, peace, and the return of joy.
In France, May 1st is a special day for this flower. People give bunches of Lily flowers to loved ones to wish them happiness. It’s a tradition that’s still alive today.
What Does Lily of the Valley Mean?
Lily of the Valley stands for:
- Purity
- Sweetness
- Humility
- The return of happiness
It’s a flower often seen in royal weddings and special ceremonies. It fits perfectly with the feeling that May is the month of flowers. It speaks of love, peace, and the hope that comes with spring.
How to Care for Lily of the Valley
- Grows best in shade or soft sunlight
- Likes moist, rich soil
- Needs regular watering
- Spreads fast — give it room
- Poisonous if eaten — keep away from pets
3 Interesting Things About Lily of the Valley
- Its scent is used in perfumes and candles.
- In France, it’s given as a good-luck charm every May 1st.
- It’s part of royal wedding bouquets, even today.
Hawthorn – The Wild Flower of Protection
The second May birth flower is Hawthorn. It’s not soft and sweet like Lily of the Valley. Instead, it’s bold and strong. It grows on trees or shrubs, often with thorns, and produces small white flower or pink flowers.
Though it may look simple, Hawthorn carries powerful meaning.
History of Hawthorn
In Celtic stories, Hawthorn was seen as a magical tree. People believed it connected our world with the realm of fairies. It was said that fairies gathered around blooming Hawthorn trees in spring – especially during Beltane, the ancient May Day celebration.
In Christian tradition, some say the crown of thorns worn by Jesus was made from Hawthorn. Over time, it became a symbol of suffering, strength, and renewal.
People also planted it near homes to ward off evil spirits. Even today, old Hawthorn trees are sometimes left untouched – just in case.
What Does Hawthorn Mean?
Hawthorn stands for:
- Protection
- Lasting love
- Spiritual growth
- Renewal
It may not be as popular in bouquets, but it’s one of the most meaningful month flower May plants. In many cultures, it’s still a symbol of life and rebirth.
How to Grow Hawthorn
- Needs at least 6 hours of sun
- Likes loamy, well-drained soil
- Water regularly, but don’t overdo it
- Prune during late winter
- Can live over 100 years if well cared for
3 Quick Facts About Hawthorn
- Its berries are used in teas, jellies, and herbal medicine.
- It’s known for supporting heart health in traditional remedies.
- It appears in old May Day dances and fairy legends.
Gifting the May Birth Flowers
If you’re looking for a flower delivery gift idea for someone born in May, a bouquet that includes Lily of the Valley or Hawthorn is thoughtful and unique. These birth flowers say more than words ever could.
Lily of the Valley adds softness and love. Hawthorn adds depth and history. Combine them for something that’s both beautiful and meaningful.
Remember, flower May month choices are more than just decoration — they tell stories.
Why These Flowers Still Matter Today
We may not dance around maypoles like in the past, but flowers still hold meaning. The May birth flower duo reminds us of the joy that comes with spring. Of fresh starts. Of peace after a storm.
The birth month flowers for May tell us to slow down. To notice the little things. To give and receive kindness.
Whether you plant them, gift them, or just learn about them – these flowers are worth remembering.
May is the month of flowers. And these two blossoms – Lily of the Valley and Hawthorn – show us why.