By Amanda Rose Newton
May is a month of blooming beauty, representing renewal and the vibrant awakening of nature. The birth flowers for May, Lily of the Valley and Hawthorn, perfectly embody these themes with their enchanting blossoms and historical symbolism.
Symbolism and History – Lily of the Valley
Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) is renowned for its delicate, bell-shaped flowers and sweet fragrance.
This charming flower symbolizes purity, humility, and a return to happiness. In folklore, it is often associated with fairies and mystical gardens. Which makes the fact that Rockledge Gardens features fairy gardens throughout the month of May more fitting!
Traditionally, Lily of the Valley has been used in bridal bouquets and as a symbol of motherhood, making it a fitting flower for the springtime celebrations of May.
Symbolism and History – Hawthorn
Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) is a resilient tree known for its clusters of white or pink blossoms and red berries.
Symbolizing hope, protection, and love, Hawthorn has been celebrated in various cultures for its mystical properties and medicinal uses. In Celtic tradition, it is considered a sacred tree, often associated with the May Day festival of Beltane.
Florida-Friendly Alternatives
Florida’s unique climate poses challenges for growing traditional May birth flowers. However, there are beautiful alternatives that thrive in the Sunshine State’s warm and humid conditions.
Florida-Friendly Alternative to Lily of the Valley
Spider Lily (Hymenocallis latifolia)
Spider Lily, native to Florida, offers a similar delicate beauty with its white, star-shaped flowers and sweet fragrance. It thrives in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil, making it an excellent substitute for Lily of the Valley in Florida gardens.
Care and Growing Tips for Spider Lily:
Planting: Plant bulbs in the fall or early spring in a spot that receives partial shade to full sun.
Soil: Ensure the soil is well-drained and rich in organic matter. Spider Lilies prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Maintenance: Remove spent flowers and yellowing leaves to keep the plant looking tidy and to encourage new growth.
Florida-Friendly Alternative to Hawthorn:
Yaupon Holly (Ilex vomitoria)
Yaupon Holly is a versatile native shrub that produces white blossoms and red berries, similar to Hawthorn.
It is highly adaptable to Florida’s climate, tolerating both wet and dry conditions. Yaupon Holly can be used as a hedge, specimen plant, or even pruned into a small tree. Do not let the unappealing species name fool you! Yaupon holly has been used as a delicious tea for centuries and is notable as the only caffeine producing plant native to the United States.
Care and Growing Tips for Yaupon Holly:
Planting: Plant Yaupon Holly in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
Watering: Water regularly during the first year to help establish a strong root system. Once established, Yaupon Holly is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.
Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and remove any dead or diseased branches. Yaupon Holly responds well to pruning and can be shaped into a variety of forms.
Pest Control: Yaupon Holly is generally pest-resistant, but occasional monitoring for pests like scale insects and mites is recommended. Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap if necessary.
Celebrating May with Lily of the Valley and Hawthorn adds a touch of historical and symbolic richness to any garden. For those in Florida, Spider Lily and Yaupon Holly offer stunning alternatives that flourish in the local climate. Embrace the beauty and tradition of May’s birth flowers while adapting to your environment and enjoy the renewal and joy that these plants bring to your garden.
