September is known for the lovely bloom of two beautiful flowers: the aster and the morning glory. These charming flowers, each with their own special qualities, are the birth flowers for people born in this month. Together, they add a touch of color and meaning to the end of summer, each symbolizing different aspects of life and love.
Let’s dive into the beauty, meaning, and interesting history of the aster and morning glory, and find out why they are the perfect flowers to represent September.
The September Birth Flower Duo - Aster and Morning Glory
September marks a time of change as summer slowly fades into fall, and the aster and morning glory perfectly capture this transition. The aster, with its petals shaped like little stars, reflects the calm and peaceful skies of September. Its bright colors and full petals spread out from a golden center, looking much like the stars above. This connection to the stars is fitting since the name "aster" comes from the Greek word for "star."
Meanwhile, the morning glory, with its heart-shaped leaves and soft, funnel-like flowers, brings a sense of peace and quiet. This flower blooms in the early morning light and closes up by the afternoon, symbolizing fresh starts and the passing of time. Together, the aster and morning glory represent the balance between light and dark, summer and fall, and the natural cycles of life.
For those born in September, receiving a bouquet of asters and morning glories is more than just a lovely gift. It’s a meaningful gesture, linking them to the gentle changes and transitions of the month they were born in.
The History and Symbolism of Asters
Asters carry a deep history and hold special meanings. Their name comes from the Greek word for "star," which perfectly describes their star-like shape. According to Greek mythology, the goddess Astraea cried when she saw there were no stars on Earth. Wherever her tears touched the ground, asters bloomed, turning this flower into a symbol of hope and love.
During the Victorian era, asters played a big role in "floriography," the practice of using flowers to convey messages. In this floral language, asters stood for elegance, patience, and love. People often chose them to express feelings of loyalty and admiration.
Asters are also linked to wisdom, making them a symbol for those seeking knowledge and clarity. Some even believe that asters have magical qualities, and burning them could drive away evil spirits, adding a sense of mystery to their story.
The Colors and Meanings of Asters
Asters bloom in a range of colors, and each color holds a special meaning:
Purple asters are a symbol of wisdom and royalty, reflecting qualities of intelligence and high regard.
White asters represent purity and innocence, making them perfect for expressing sincere and genuine feelings.
Pink asters stand for love and sensitivity, often given to show affection and care for someone close.
Red asters are associated with undying love and passion, making them a powerful symbol of deep emotions and strong connections.
Blue asters express trust and loyalty, qualities that are highly valued in any relationship.
With such a vibrant variety of colors, asters are a wonderful gift for any occasion, especially for those with a September birthday. Their meanings of wisdom and love make them a thoughtful choice for friends, family, or loved ones.
Fun Facts About Asters
Asters are part of the Asteraceae family, which has over 600 different species.
These flowers originally come from North America and Eurasia, thriving in a wide range of environments.
Asters are great at attracting butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds, so they’re a popular choice for gardeners who enjoy attracting wildlife.
In ancient times, asters were given as offerings to the gods and were thought to have protective powers.
Some cultures used asters in traditional medicine, believing they could help with headaches and other health issues.
The Grace of Morning Glory
While asters are a standout in fall gardens, morning glories are equally enchanting. These flowers are known for blooming early in the morning and closing by the afternoon. They symbolize new beginnings, renewal, and the fleeting nature of time. Their delicate petals open with the sunrise and close by evening, serving as a daily reminder that each day brings a chance for a fresh start.
Morning glories have a rich history, especially in Asia. In Japan, they are celebrated during the Morning Glory Festival, where people enjoy their beauty and reflect on how time passes. In China, morning glories have been used in traditional medicine and ceremonial practices for a long time. The Aztecs also appreciated morning glories for their mystical and hallucinogenic properties, incorporating them into their rituals.
The Colors and Symbolism of Morning Glory
Morning glories, like asters, come in different colors, each carrying its own special meaning:
Blue morning glories symbolize trust, respect, and calmness, reflecting a sense of peace and reliability.
Pink morning glories stand for romance and affection, making them perfect for expressing love and tenderness.
White morning glories represent purity, faith, and peace, conveying a sense of sincerity and tranquility.
These flowers not only add beauty to gardens but also carry deep meanings, making them a thoughtful gift for someone special or a lovely addition to any celebration.
Fun Facts About Morning Glories
Morning glories belong to the Convolvulaceae family, which includes over 1,000 different species.
These flowers are heliotropic, meaning they follow the sun’s path from east to west during the day.
Morning glories are known for their quick growth and can reach up to 10 feet tall in just one growing season.
In some places, morning glories are considered invasive because they grow so quickly and can spread easily.
The seeds of morning glories were used by ancient Mesoamerican civilizations for their hallucinogenic properties.
How to Incorporate Asters and Morning Glories into Everyday Life
Asters and morning glories aren’t just lovely to look at in the garden; you can use them in creative ways in your daily life too.
In the home: Placing a vase of fresh asters in your living room can add a burst of color and brighten up the space. You can also grow morning glories on trellises or fences to create a beautiful green backdrop in your garden. Their vibrant colors can instantly refresh any indoor or outdoor area.
In fashion: Wearing floral prints with asters or morning glories can bring a touch of nature-inspired style to your outfits. Think about adding these prints to a scarf, dress, or accessory to show off your appreciation for September’s birth flowers.
In gifts: A bouquet of asters and morning glories makes a thoughtful and meaningful birthday gift, especially for those born in September. You can also press these flowers to create unique handmade cards or framed art, offering a personal and special touch.
Conclusion
The aster and morning glory, with their fascinating history, bright colors, and meaningful symbolism, make September a standout month for flower lovers. Whether you’re marking a September birthday or just want to enjoy the beauty of these flowers, the aster and morning glory bring a timeless elegance and significance. Embrace their beauty and let them remind you of the special charm found in every new beginning.
Comments