Lily of the Valley flowers, or Lillium Convallaria Majalis, is a flower filled with meaning and symbolism. This article discusses the meaning, symbolism, and cultural significance of the Lilly Of The Valley flower.
Lily of the valley flowers have many meanings, such as purity, sweetness, and humility. They also have many cultural connections, such as warding off evil spirits. In addition, giving someone lily of the valley flowers on certain occasions is a thoughtful gift.
This article explains the meaning and symbolism of the lily of the valley flowers. It also talks about the cultural relevance of this flower and when to give it to a person.
Meaning Of The Lily Of The Valley Flower
Lily of the valley flowers are native to Europe, North America, and the cooler parts of Asia. These flowers have a long, culturally significant history in Europe.
Lily of the valley’s scientific name is Lillium Convallaria Majalis, which means “of the valley” and “the month of May”. As these flowers bloom in May and June, the name is quite fitting. This is also where the names May bells and May lilies come from.
Because of their sweet scent, the lily of the valley flowers are often used in perfumes and bouquets. These flowers are also often chosen as part of a wedding bouquet by many, including royals like Princess Diana, Kate Middleton, and Queen Elizabeth.
What Do Lily Of The Valley Flowers Symbolize?
There are a lot of symbolic connections to the lily of the valley flowers, which is another reason they are often used in wedding bouquets.
Lily of the valley flowers symbolize humility, purity, and sweetness. The lily of the valley flowers also represent motherhood. Therefore, it is a popular tattoo option for mothers and is often gifted to new mothers.
The Bible also references the lily of the valley flowers on many occasions. For example, some believe that the lily of the valley flowers grew from Eve’s tears after being banished from the garden of Eden.
Many cultures believe that lily of the valley flowers can be used to ward off evil spirits, and there was a time in history when almost every garden had some lily of the valley flowers.
Lily of the valley flowers are also associated with the German goddess Ostara, the goddess of spring and dawn. In German history, people would throw lily of the valley flowers into the fire to honor the goddess Ostara.
Finland and Yugoslavia also recognize the lily of the valley flower as their official national flower. It is also seen on the coat of arms in many other countries and states worldwide.
When To Give Someone Lily Of The Valley Flowers
Lily of the valley flowers have many positive connotations. Therefore, there is never an inappropriate time to give someone lily of the valley flowers. However, giving someone lily of the valley flowers on certain occasions will add a special touch to the gift.
As lily of the valley flowers are also known as May flowers, giving a person these flowers on their birthday in May adds a special touch. The same goes for sending flowers to a newborn’s parents if the baby is born in May.
Because these flowers also symbolize motherhood, it is a great gift to give expecting mothers, regardless of when the baby will be born. Overall, the lily of the valley flowers are beautiful, smell great, and always make for a welcome gift.
Conclusion
Lily of the valley flowers symbolize purity, humility, and sweetness. Therefore, Lily of the valley flowers are often used as part of wedding bouquets. Lily of the valley flowers are also known as May lilies or May bells and are often gifted to May babies. Lily of the valley flowers also represent motherhood and is, therefore, a popular tattoo choice among mothers.