May Birth Flowers: Lily of the Valley and Hawthorn Meanings & Symbolism

The Primary May Birth Flower: Lily of the Valley

Lily of the valley is a woodland perennial that produces arching stems lined with tiny, nodding white bells. Its species name majalis means "of May," directly connecting it to the month. Despite its delicate look, the plant is remarkably fragrant, and it has long been valued in perfumery.

As May’s birth flower, lily of the valley symbolizes the return of happiness, sweetness, humility, and purity. Its gentle beauty and heady scent made it a favorite for weddings and springtime celebrations, and it is often associated with renewed joy after difficult times.

Lily of the Valley Meaning and Symbolism

The flower’s central meaning is the return of happiness, a sentiment that suits its arrival in the fullness of spring. It also carries associations with humility and pure love. It is worth noting that lily of the valley is toxic if ingested, so its beauty is best admired rather than sampled, a detail that adds a note of caution to its sweet symbolism.

The Secondary May Birth Flower: Hawthorn

Hawthorn is a thorny shrub or small tree that bursts into clouds of white or pink blossom in late spring, which is why it is popularly known as the mayflower or may-tree. It has a long history in European hedgerows and folklore, where it was regarded as both protective and, at times, best left undisturbed.

As a May birth flower, hawthorn symbolizes hope, protection, and supreme happiness. In folklore it was linked to fertility and the coming of summer, and its blossom featured in traditional May Day celebrations. Its blend of beauty and thorns gives it a symbolism that balances promise with a touch of wildness.

What Do the May Birth Flowers Symbolize?

Together, May’s birth flowers speak to happiness in different registers. Lily of the valley offers sweetness, humility, and the return of joy, while hawthorn adds hope, protection, and the exuberance of a season in full bloom. For a May birthday, this pairing suggests renewed happiness and a hopeful, protective kind of love.

Color and Appearance

These flowers are more defined by form and scent than by a wide color range:

• White lily of the valley is the classic form, symbolizing purity and returning happiness.
• Pink lily of the valley is a rarer cultivated variety, adding a note of gentle affection.
• White hawthorn blossom represents hope and protection.
• Pink hawthorn blossom lends warmth and a festive, celebratory feel.

History and Cultural Significance

Lily of the valley has a special place in several traditions, perhaps most famously in France, where sprigs are exchanged on the first of May as tokens of good luck and happiness. Its fragrance has also made it a lasting favorite in perfumery and in bridal bouquets.

Hawthorn is woven deeply into European folklore and seasonal custom. It was central to May Day festivities and was regarded with a mix of reverence and superstition, seen as a protective plant but one to be treated with respect. Its role as the mayflower cements its bond with the month.

Why Are These Flowers Associated With May?

The link is both botanical and traditional. Lily of the valley blooms in May, and its very name means "of May," while hawthorn flowers in late spring and is known as the mayflower for exactly that reason. Both plants also feature in long-standing May celebrations, which reinforced their connection to the month over centuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the official birth flower for May?

Lily of the valley is generally considered the primary birth flower for May, with hawthorn as its recognized secondary flower.

Does May have two birth flowers?

Yes. May is commonly assigned both lily of the valley and hawthorn, with lily of the valley listed first.

What does lily of the valley symbolize?

Lily of the valley symbolizes the return of happiness, sweetness, humility, and purity.

What does hawthorn symbolize?

Hawthorn symbolizes hope, protection, and supreme happiness, and is tied to late-spring and May Day traditions.

Why is lily of the valley linked to May?

Its species name means "of May," it blooms during the month, and it is exchanged as a good-luck token on the first of May in some countries.

Is lily of the valley safe to handle?

It is lovely to display but toxic if eaten, so it should be kept away from children and pets and never ingested.

May Birth Flower Gift Ideas

Shopping for someone born in May? The lily of the valley and hawthorn make a meaningful theme for a birthday gift that lasts longer than a bouquet. Our birth flower necklace can be personalized with a name or a special date, and it pairs beautifully with the matching birthstone jewelry. You can also browse more personalized birthday gifts.

Other Birth Flowers by Month

January | February | March | April | June | July | August | September | October | November | December

Explore the full series in our guide to Birth Flowers by Month.