The Birth Flowers for February
A birth flower is a flower symbol for each month of the year. Each month has a birth flower and some have two.
It is believed that birthday celebrations originated in the Roman Empire and the origins of birth flowers date back to these times. The Roman birthday celebrations included honoring their Gods by decorating the altars with flowers. Also, during Roman birthday celebrations family and friends brought gifts including flowers to celebrate the birthday person.
Each month in 2012 we will write about each month's birth flower. We will give information on the meaning of each birth flower and symbolism surrounding each month's flower. Birthday Flowers available for delivery throughout Canada.
FEBRUARY Birth Flower:
This is one of the months that has 2 birth flowers, the Violet and the Iris
Meaning of February's Birth Flowers: Modesty, Faithfulness, Virtue, Wisdom, Humility
Violet: Latin Name: Viola
Iris: Latin Name for Rainbow, the name comes from the goddess of the rainbow and messenger of the gods.
Interesting Facts on Violets
Violets flower throughout the spring and summer
There are between 400 to 500 different species of violets
Many species of violets are called pansies
Although violet is the name of the plant and the color is usually violet some violets are blue, yellow, white, and even have 2 colors, usually blue and yellow.
The flowers of the Violet plants are edible.
A major component of the Violets scent is ketone, this desensitizes the nasal receptors and causes a temporary lose of smell. As a result it is thought that violets do not have a scent.
It is believed that dreaming of violets is a sign that a fortune is coming your way.
Interesting Facts on the Iris
Since irises are herbaceous perennials, they die in the winter, however, the roots stay alive and produce new growth in the spring.
The name iris is both its common name and scientific name.
There are more than 200 species of Iris Flowers
The Iris is also the Anniversary flower for the 25th Wedding Anniversary
Iris is the name of the Goddess of the Rainbow
Iris has often been the symbol of royalty throughout history
Iris has appeared often in Egyptian works of art, some dating back to around 400 BC. A flower carved into the Egyptian Sphinx of Giza is thought to be an iris.
Iris flowers have been known to be used as a liver purge
The root of the Iris has been used to treat skin ailments as well as used in sore throat and cough remedies
Essential oils from the iris plant are used in aromatherapy and in making perfume.
How to Care for African Violets
Light & Location: indirect, moderate to bright indoor light. Place plant away from vents, fans, or doors where it will receive blasts of cold air. African Violets do not like extreme temperatures. hint: African violets like to get some sunlight each day. Place your African Violets in an east-facing window so they get the morning sun.
Watering: Allow soil to dry out between watering's, this will encourage the plant to bloom. When watering use room temperature water and place plant in water for approximately 30 mins to allow the plant to absorb the water it needs. Do not get water on the leaves of the plant. Do not use soft water and highly chlorinated water. hint: let your water sit in a watering can for 8 hours to get to room temperature and to let impurities evaporate.Fertilizing: For best results, use violet plant food as directed.
Flowers: Pinch off dead or dying blossom. African Violets need at least 8 hours of darkness each day to flower.
Caring for your cut Iris Flowers
Fill vase with water and add 1 packet of flower food provided by florist
Cut 1 inch off the iris stems and remove leaves that are below the water line.
Day 3: Re-cut iris stems, change water and add another packet of flower food
Note: Keep your Iris away from direct sunlight, heat and drafts
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Other Month's Birth Flowers:
January's Birth Flower - Carnation
February's Birth Flowers - Violet & Iris
March Birth Flowers - Daffodil
April Birth Flowers - Daisy and Sweet Peas
May Birth Flower - Lily of the Valley / Lilies