Like birthstones and astrological signs, monthly birth flowers are a fun way to describe the personality and attributes of a person. They also have special meanings. 

The idea of a birth flower most likely originates from Ancient Greek and Roman times. The practice continued into the Victorian Era, when people gave flowers to communicate romantic intentions between partners.

People born in August tend to be confident, outgoing, and stubborn. They are also honest, strong, faithful, and thoughtful, which coordinates well with their birth flowers.

August Birth Flowers 

The two flowers primarily associated with August are the Gladiolus and the Poppy. Both are showy and colorful in unique ways. August birth flower meaning varies depending on the flower variety in question. 

Gladiolus 

The most common August birth flower is the gladiolus. Gladiolus flowers are showy tropical perennials native to South Africa, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. They are outdoor garden plants that bloom from August through September. 

History of the Gladiolus 

The name gladiolus derives from the Latin word gladius, which translates to “sword.” This name describes the sword-like shape of the leaves and the erect, spiky position of the flowers. Gladioli are often referred to as sword lilies. 

In Ancient Rome, the flowers were also directly associated with the integrity and strength of gladiators. Both the flowers and the roots of gladiolus plants have historical healing properties and were used in herbal remedies. These aspects of the plant are thought to aid in common ailments like colic. 

Characteristics of the Gladiolus Flower 

Gladioli grow between 6 inches to 6 feet tall. They produce up to 30 funnel-shaped flowers per spike. Each flowering spike has small, hooded blooms with flared petals that come in vibrant colors. They also produce a sweet, alluring fragrance similar to a rose. 

How to Care for Gladiolus 

Gladiolus are full sun plants that require a moderate amount of water. They thrive in well-drained, fertile soil but do not care for soggy roots. They may also experience common pests like slugs, aphids, thrips, mealybugs, and white flies. 

Gladiolus Flower Meaning 

This August birth flower meaning mainly symbolizes honor and remembrance. However, the meaning changes depending on the color of the blooms. 

Red and pink gladiolus mean romance, love, and affection. Red gladiolus flowers are also often given to a married partner to celebrate a 40th wedding anniversary. 

Purple gladiolus means royalty and fortune. White gladiolus is present in bridal bouquets as a symbol of innocence, purity, and unity. Gladioli in shades of yellow represents compassion and joy. 

Poppy 

The second August birth flower is the poppy. Poppies are herbaceous, brightly colored spring flowers that attract pollinators like bees. 

History of the Poppy 

Poppies are native to many countries and regions, including China, the Middle East, and California. Poppies were grown for medicinal use thousands of years ago in Mesopotamia. To this day, poppies and their seeds are used to produce drugs such as opium and painkillers like morphine.

Poppies are also a significant symbol of fallen soldiers. After the Battle of Flanders in France during World War I, poppies bloomed from the shallow graves of fallen soldiers. This phenomenon inspired the famous poem “In Flanders Field” and created a trend of wearing the flowers in remembrance. 

Characteristics of the Poppy Flower

There are many types of poppy, each with a slightly different appearance. The most common poppy varieties are the California poppy and the Oriental poppy. California poppies are natural wildflowers with delicate orange blooms. Oriental poppies have solid black centers and stunning red-orange petals. 

Poppies also have a unique but pleasing scent. It is slightly citrusy with notes of cherry and chocolate sweetness. 

Poppy Flower Meaning 

Poppies are a common symbol of remembrance, sympathy, and mourning. They can also symbolize eternal life after a death in the family. 

The color of poppies affects their meaning as well. Red poppies typically symbolize happiness, imagination, and pleasure while yellow poppies symbolize wealth and prosperity. Poppies with purple-colored petals also mean royalty, extravagance, beauty, and enchantment. 

How to care for poppies? 

Poppies bloom from August through September. They are full sun plants that grow best in poor, rocky soil. Their water needs are minimal. If they receive too much water poppies will grow too tall and leggy. 

Why are there two birth flowers in August? 

The majority of months have two birth flowers assigned to them. Gladiolus and poppies reach their peak bloom during August. As a result, they are both August birth flowers. 

Conclusion 

August has two birth flowers, the gladiolus, and the poppy. Although different in appearance, scent, and optimal growing conditions, the two flowers have similar meanings. Depending on the color, both gladiolus and poppy flowers can symbolize honor, mourning, and remembrance.