The October Birth Flowers are Marigold and Cosmos
The birth flowers for October are warm marigolds and dainty cosmos which flower in the month of October in the Northern Hemisphere.
October Birth Flower: Marigold
The primary birthday flower for October is the Marigold of the genus Tagetes, native to the Americas. Flowers of the Calendula genus are also known as marigolds and are native to regions of Asia and Europe.
Marigold flowers occur in warm golden, orange, yellow, and white colors, often with maroon accents.
There are many well known cultivated varieties of marigolds such as African and French marigolds.
The common name "marigold" originates from 'Mary's gold', an earlier name given to one of these plants.
Marigold garlands are often used in cultural events in Mexico, Nepal and India and it is one of the national symbols in the Ukraine.
The language of flowers introduced in Victorian times says that marigolds symbolize sorrow and sympathy.
Choose your favourite birth flower and have custom 3d embroidered patches made to embellish a bag or jeans.
October Birth Flower: Cosmos
The second October flower is the Cosmos which occurs in many colors, including the pink and white colors of October. Cosmos grows very easily provided there is no frost and can bloom throughout summer into early fall.
The group of plants that make up the Cosmos genus originate across North, Central and South America and consists of about twenty species. Many hybrids and cultivars have been bred from the natural wild flowers.
"Cosmos" is the Greek word for harmony or ordered universe. It is believed Spanish priests in Mexico gave the flower this name due to the evenly spaced petals.
Cosmos is the flower given to commemorate a second wedding anniversary.
Birth flower reference: Floriography Today by S. Theresa Dietz
October Birth Trees: Ivy and Reed
In the Celtic tree calendar, October is associated with Ivy (September 30 – October 27) and Reed (October 28 – November 24), two plants whose symbolism reflects transformation, resilience, and clarity.
Ivy embodies the power of determination and spiritual growth, as it winds upward toward the light, symbolizing the soul’s perseverance through darkness and challenge. Ivy’s role is a reminder of connection and fidelity, binding together relationships and communities with enduring strength.
As the year wanes, Reed takes prominence, representing purification, truth, and the cutting away of illusions. Reed’s straight, hollow form made it a natural tool for writing and music in Celtic tradition, reinforcing its association with communication, wisdom, and clarity of vision.
Together, Ivy and Reed balance endurance with revelation—teaching that true strength lies not only in persistence but also in the courage to face truth and embrace transformation.
Sources:
- Paterson, S. (2001). Celtic Tree Magic: Ogham Lore and Druid Mysteries. Llewellyn Publications.
- Andrews, T. (1995). The Celtic Tree Oracle: A System of Divination. Inner Traditions.
- Hope, M. (2014). The Healing Power of Trees: Spiritual Journeys Through the Celtic Tree Calendar. Watkins Publishing.
This interesting article covers the history, meaning and uses of October's flower Calendula, another name for Marigold.
October's Calendula: Flowers for Any Occasion
By Lilly Gordon
October's birth flower, the Calendula, is truly a symbol of fall and crisp mornings. It's bright golden and burnt color palette makes it reminiscent of a beautiful autumn sunrise. Also referred to as the Pot Marigold, the Calendula is truly a delight for florists and in the garden due to it's beautiful color and it's hardy nature. Whether potted as a unique holiday gift or planted in your border, the Calendula will delight and inspire.
History, Meanings and Uses
The Calendula's name comes from the English "calendar". It is said that the Calendula took this name because of it's monthly blooms. Monks used to enjoy its beautiful blossoms year-round as the flowers would surround their altars and bloom until they were covered with snow.
Like the Sunflower, the Calendula's blossoms follow the sun, and were used as protection against evil by early Christians. The Calendula represents affection, jealousy, grief and many other feelings associated with love.
The Calendula uses are well known throughout the culinary and homeopathic healing worlds. In the kitchen, the Calendula is used to brighten up and add a slightly spicy flavor to greens. The petals were also used to substitute for saffron in the cooking pots of the poor - hence the name "Pot Marigold."
The medicinal uses of the Calendula are almost limitless. Its leaves and petals can be used for everything as a tincture for headaches to an ointment for insect bites. Oil from the seeds is used in soap products and the extract, to combat acne.
Article cont.
Cultivation
Like their cousin, the Common Marigold, the Calendula is extremely hardy and weather resistant. They can withstand a moderate frost and do well in full sun or part-shade. They actually thrive in cool weather and will bloom until the ground is completely frozen.
Plant Calendula seeds mid-spring and be sure to deadhead often to prolong blooming. They like rich, well drained soil but can survive just about anywhere and are perfect to mix into your vegetable patch for a shock of color.
Go ahead and stock your gardens full of Calendula. They are perfect for unique holiday gifts; a Thanksgiving table would shine with their bright golden blooms. They are perfect for bridal bouquets and a simple token to show your appreciation and feelings. And they are a gardener's delight; as hardy and useful as the day is long.
Lilly Gordon is a freelance web writer and publisher. She is an avid gardener and is fascinated with floriculture and is a floral design enthusiast.
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Lilly_Gordon/677416
Article republished with permission from EzineArticles.com
Origin of Birth Flowers
The practice of assigning birth flowers to each month is believed to have originated in ancient Roman times. During these early celebrations, people would decorate the altars of Roman gods with flowers and give flowers as birthday gifts. This tradition was part of the broader cultural practice of using flowers to convey specific meanings and sentiments.
The concept of flowers having symbolic meanings became particularly popular in 18th century England, thanks to Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, who introduced the idea that flowers could communicate messages without words. This practice, known as the Language of Flowers, gained significant popularity during the Victorian era, allowing people to express emotions and messages through the choice of flowers.
Birth flowers are chosen based on a combination of historical traditions, cultural significance, and seasonal availability. Here's a brief overview of how these factors come into play:
Historical Traditions: Many birth flowers have roots in ancient customs and folklore. For example, the January birth flower, the carnation, has been associated with admiration and love since ancient times.
Cultural Significance: Different cultures have their own interpretations and meanings for flowers. These cultural associations often influence which flowers are chosen for each month. For instance, the chrysanthemum, the birth flower for November, is a symbol of longevity and happiness in many Asian cultures.
Seasonal Availability: The flowers chosen for each month are often those that bloom during that time of year. This ensures that the flowers are readily available and at their peak beauty. For example, daffodils, the birth flower for March, are among the first flowers to bloom in spring.
Symbolism and Meaning: Each birth flower is selected for its unique symbolism and the emotions it conveys. For example, roses, the birth flower for June, are universally recognized as symbols of love and passion.
Today, birth flowers are still used to add a personalized touch to birthdays and celebrations, each flower carrying its own unique symbolism and charm.
