May Birth Flower: Meaning, Symbolism & Significance

The traditional may birth flower actually includes two blooms: the lily of the valley and the hawthorn. These two spring flowers represent the sweetness, purity, and hope of the late spring season.

The may flower of the month means looking closely at both blooms, since each carries its own distinct history and meaning.

Lily of the Valley: May’s Delicate Bloom

The lily of the valley stands out with its dainty, drooping, bell-shaped white flowers and a strong, sweet fragrance that’s instantly recognizable.

Symbolically, it represents sweetness, humility, motherhood, and a “return of happiness,” making it a deeply sentimental choice for gifting or celebrating.

This flower is also highly favored in royal wedding bouquets, prized for its delicate beauty. It’s worth noting the plant is toxic if eaten, so it’s best admired rather than handled carelessly around children or pets.

Hawthorn: May’s Second Birth Flower

The hawthorn is a dense shrub or small tree from the rose family, producing flat clusters of small white, pink, or red blossoms.

Symbolically, hawthorn represents hope, protection, love, and new beginnings, carrying a more grounded, protective energy compared to the delicate lily of the valley.

This flower has deep roots in tradition, celebrated for centuries as part of May Day festivities, marking the true peak of spring in many cultures.

Does May Have Two Birth Flowers?

Yes, May is officially recognized as having two birth flowers rather than just one. The lily of the valley and hawthorn each represent a different side of the season — one soft and fragrant, the other resilient and protective.

Having two birth flowers is fairly common across the calendar, with many months recognizing multiple blooms due to varying historical and regional traditions.

May Birth Flower Tattoo Ideas

For those interested in a may birth flower tattoo, the lily of the valley is a popular choice thanks to its delicate, bell-shaped design, often inked in a minimalist, fine-line style.

The hawthorn works well for more detailed botanical tattoos, especially designs that incorporate its small clustered blossoms and branch-like structure.

Other Post: September Birth Flower: Meaning, Symbolism & Significance

Frequently Asked Questions

Does May have two birth flowers?

Yes, May has two official birth flowers: the lily of the valley and the hawthorn, each with distinct symbolism.

What is May’s birth flower tattoo?

The lily of the valley is the most popular choice for May birth flower tattoos, often done in a delicate, minimalist style.

What is Gemini’s birth flower?

Gemini is commonly associated with the lily of the valley, aligning with the May birth flower tradition.

Does May have an official flower?

May doesn’t have one single official flower, but is widely recognized for two: the lily of the valley and the hawthorn.

Which tattoo is for May Born?

The lily of the valley remains the top tattoo choice for those born in May, symbolizing sweetness and renewal.

What does May’s birth flower symbolize?

It generally symbolizes sweetness, hope, protection, and new beginnings, drawing from both the lily of the valley and hawthorn.

What is May’s birth fruit?

Strawberry is commonly associated as May’s birth fruit, tied closely to the fresh, seasonal spirit of late spring.

What is the rarest birth flower?

This varies by opinion, though flowers like the orchid or snowdrop are often cited as rarer or more unique birth flower choices.

What flower am I if I was born in May?

If you were born in May, your birth flowers are the lily of the valley and the hawthorn.

Final Thoughts

The May birth flower carries a beautiful duality, pairing the delicate sweetness of the lily of the valley with the protective strength of the hawthorn. Together, these two blooms offer a fitting symbol for anyone born during this hopeful, blossoming season.