The July birth flower is the larkspur, and many lists also name the water lily as a second July flower. Larkspur stands for an open heart and strong attachment, while the water lily stands for purity, rebirth and calm.
Both flowers suit midsummer: larkspur sends up tall spikes of blue, pink, white and purple, and water lilies float on ponds from early summer into early autumn. If you are shopping for a July birthday or planning a garden around one, here is what each flower means and how to work with it.
Quick Answer: July Birth Flower at a Glance
- Main flower: larkspur (Delphinium and Consolida species).
- Second flower: water lily (Nymphaea).
- Larkspur meaning: an open heart, ardent attachment, lightness and joy.
- Water lily meaning: purity, enlightenment, rebirth and peace.
- Colors: larkspur comes in blue, purple, pink and white; water lilies in white, pink, yellow and blue.
- Good to know: every part of larkspur is poisonous if eaten, so keep it away from pets and children.
What Is the Larkspur?
Larkspur is the common name for several tall, spiky flowers in the buttercup family. Gardeners usually split them into two groups: annual larkspur (Consolida ajacis), which you sow from seed each year, and perennial delphiniums, which come back for several seasons. In everyday florist language the two names are used almost interchangeably, which is why July birthday cards often show either one.
The name comes from the flower’s spur, which resembles the long hind claw of a lark. The plants reach about 2 to 4 feet tall (60 to 120 cm) and flower in early to midsummer, which is how the flower earned its place as the symbol of July.
July Birth Flower Meaning by Larkspur Color
Victorian flower dictionaries gave each larkspur color its own message, and florists still use them today.
| Color | Traditional meaning | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Blue | Dignity, grace, devotion | Birthdays, thank-you gifts |
| Purple | First love, sweetness | New relationships |
| Pink | Fickleness, a changeable heart | Light-hearted gifts |
| White | A happy, cheerful nature | Weddings, celebrations |
Pink larkspur has the least flattering meaning, so some people avoid it in romantic bouquets. Blue and purple are the safest picks for a July birthday.
The Water Lily: July’s Second Birth Flower
The water lily grows rooted in mud with its leaves and flowers floating on the surface. Because it rises clean from murky water and closes at night, many cultures treat it as a symbol of purity and renewal. In ancient Egypt the blue water lily (Nymphaea caerulea) was linked with the sun and rebirth, and in Buddhism the closely related lotus carries a similar meaning. Claude Monet painted his own pond of water lilies at Giverny for roughly the last thirty years of his life, which is why the flower is also tied to art and calm.
A pink water lily suggests warmth and affection, white suggests purity, yellow suggests joy, and blue suggests tranquility.
How to Grow Larkspur at Home
Annual larkspur is easy from seed but fussy about timing. It likes cool soil, dislikes being transplanted, and the seed germinates best after a cold spell.
- Sow seed directly outdoors in autumn in mild areas, or in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked.
- Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil and a little shelter from strong wind.
- Scatter seed thinly, press it in and cover with a thin layer of soil; germination can take two to three weeks.
- Thin seedlings to about 9 to 12 inches (23 to 30 cm) apart.
- Stake tall plants and cut the spikes for vases as soon as the lower flowers open.
Larkspur struggles in hot, humid weather, so the best flowers come in regions with cool springs. To plan around your climate, check your zone on the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. The ASPCA also lists larkspur as toxic to dogs, cats and horses, so think twice before planting it where pets roam.
Growing Water Lilies
Water lilies need still water and at least six hours of sun. Hardy types survive winter in a pond that does not freeze solid, while tropical types are usually treated as annuals in cooler climates.
| Feature | Larkspur | Water lily |
|---|---|---|
| Where it grows | Garden beds | Ponds, tubs, still water |
| Sun | Full sun | 6+ hours of sun |
| Lifespan | Annual or short-lived perennial | Perennial (hardy types) |
| Best cut-flower use | Yes, very good | Short vase life |
Common Mistakes and Problems
- Sowing too late in spring: seed started in heat often fails. Sow earlier, or in fall where winters are mild.
- Floppy stems: tall spikes need staking or support netting.
- Slugs and snails: they love young shoots. Protect seedlings with barriers or hand-pick at dusk.
- Powdery mildew: give plants room for airflow and water at the base.
July Birth Flower Gift Ideas
- A bouquet of blue or purple larkspur mixed with white flowers.
- A packet of larkspur seed with a card explaining its meaning.
- A dried larkspur arrangement, because the flowers keep their color well when dried.
- Jewelry or art featuring a water lily, a gift that lasts longer than fresh blooms.
Want to see what other months offer? Browse our guide to birth month flowers, compare it with the June birth flower, or read about the October birth flower for a later birthday.
Conclusion
The July birth flower pairs the bright, upright larkspur with the quiet water lily, giving you a choice between a cheerful garden flower and a calm symbol of renewal. Pick blue or purple larkspur for a warm birthday message, and remember to keep it away from pets.
FAQ
What is the July birth flower?
The main July birth flower is the larkspur. The water lily is often listed as the second July flower.
What does the July birth flower symbolize?
Larkspur symbolizes an open heart, ardent attachment and lightness. The water lily symbolizes purity, rebirth and peace.
Is larkspur the same as delphinium?
They are close relatives. Larkspur usually means the annual Consolida, while delphinium usually means the perennial type, but florists often use the names interchangeably.
Is larkspur poisonous?
Yes. All parts of larkspur are toxic if eaten, and the seeds and young plants are especially dangerous to pets and livestock. Wear gloves when handling it if your skin is sensitive.
What is the July birthstone to match the flower?
July’s birthstone is the ruby, so red jewelry paired with blue larkspur makes a striking birthday gift.
