The July birth flowers are the larkspur and water lily. Larkspurs come in a wide range of vibrant colors including indigo, purple and pink. They symbolize carefree summer days, feeling lighthearted, and just having fun.
Larkspur flowers are often confused with Delphinium. Although they look similar and are both members of the buttercup family, larkspur are annual flowers while delphinium are perennials. In addition, Larkspur are more delicate flowers in shades of white, pink and lavender. Delphinium are more substantial flowers in shades of purple, blue, red, yellow and white. Larkspur blooms from early spring through late summer with flowers that can range in size from a few inches to several feet long in the meadowland species. In Shakespeare’s time, Larkspur was also called lark’s heel, lark’s claw and knight’s spur.
LARKSPUR IN HISTORY
The larkspur flower is mentioned frequently in Greek mythology. One legend tells us that during the Battle of Troy, Achilles’ mother requested that her son’s armor be given to the bravest warrior. The armor was awarded to Ulysses, another brave warrior, and this upset a brave warrior Ajax that he threw himself on his sword. Small blue larkspur flowers grew up everywhere drops of his blood hit the ground. Native Americans used Larkspurs to make a rich, blue dye. European settlers used it to dip their quills in as blue ink. As soon as the snow melts, these pretty Larkspurs make their appearance; however, they do not flourish until July. Larkspur were also very popular gift flowers in Victorian times symbolizing strong romantic feelings.SYMBOLISM
In general, the larkspur flowers symbolize an open heart and can be associated with romantic feelings. Here are some more specific petal color meanings:Pink larkspur flowers represent fickleness.
White blossoms signify a happy-go-lucky nature.
Purple represent first love and a sweet disposition.
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