Violets and primroses are the two most commonly associated flowers for birthdays in February. 

“Birth month flowers” are akin to birth stones – they are said to reflect certain personality traits in those born within that month. It is believed that the concept of birth month flowers originated in Roman times. No need to take it too seriously, but it’s fun to explore! Today we’ll dive into the history and symbolism of each of these unique flora.

What are violets and primroses?

Violets typically come in shades of blue to purple, with small, heart shaped petals and short stems. They are perennial flowers that often grow in the wild. Their name is derived from the Latin “viola,” meaning violet color. For this reason, they are sometimes referred to as “violas.”

Like violets, Primroses are small in stature perennials and often grow in wooded areas. They come in a variety of colors including yellow, pink, red, and violet.  Their name is derived from the Latin “primus,” meaning first.

Why are violets and primroses the birth flowers for February?

During the cool weather months, of which February is in many parts of the United States, many flowers do not bloom.

Violets and primroses are some of the first flowers to produce blossoms in the springtime, making them cheerful harbingers of warmer weather. 

They can be grown from seed and also pop up in the wild, typically in wooded areas with rich organic soil. They each grow well in partial shade. 

Symbolism and Meaning of Violets 

Violet flowers are thought to symbolize innocence, loyalty, faithfulness, and everlasting love. They have long been used in herbal remedies as they are often edible. Violets are said to contain salicylic acid, an ingredient in aspirin. 

Building off of their association with modesty, violets can be found in certain features of religious iconography alongside the Virgin Mary.

Ancient Greeks used violets in love potions, as they were often a sign of fertility. 

In Victorian times, Violets were thought to keep evil spirits at bay and ward off misfortune. Due to the aforementioned symbolism of loyalty, they were also used as a way to declare one would “remain true.”

The violet is the state flower of New Jersey, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, and Illinois.

Are violets the same as pansies?

No. Each flower will have 5 petals, but violets have two petals that point up and three that point down toward the earth. Pansies have four petals that point up, and one that points down. Pansies are often larger than violets. 

Symbolism and Meaning of Primroses

Primroses have Celtic connections to magic and fairies. They were said to be gateways to a mystical realm and have the ability to ward off evil spirits. In Irish folklore rubbing a primrose on a tooth would alleviate a toothache. 

Primroses are toxic to dogs and cats, but edible for humans.  The petals are most commonly used as a garnish, or in syrups.

In Norse mythology, primroses were connected to Frya, the goddess of love. 

In the Victorian era, primroses symbolized young love. Mentions of primroses can be found in Shakespeare’s plays, like this excerpt from Hamlet:

“Do not, as some ungracious pastors do,

Show me the steep and thorny way to heaven

Whilst like a puffed and reckless libertine

Himself the primrose path of dalliance treads

And recks not his own rede.”

The primrose has also held a long tradition in herbal medicine; it has been used to treat headaches, cramps, gout, and spasms. They grow best in shady, wooded areas.

Bouquet Ideas for February Birth Flowers

Because both the viola and the primroses are fairly short stemmed, they are not ideal flowers for bouquets. However, they both are edible, so try enjoying them in a simple syrup or cocktail.

Know someone in Pittsburgh who has a birthday in February? Send them a bouquet from our online Pittsburgh flower store!