The May birth flower is the lily of the valley, with hawthorn as the second flower for the month. Lily of the valley stands for sweetness, humility and the return of happiness, while hawthorn stands for hope and protection.
One is a tiny, scented bell flower from shady woods, the other a thorny hedgerow tree that blossoms in May, which is why it is also known as “may.” Here is what each one means, what to give for a May birthday and how to grow them safely.
Quick Answer: May Birth Flower Facts
- Main flower: lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis).
- Second flower: hawthorn (Crataegus).
- Lily of the valley meaning: sweetness, humility, return of happiness.
- Hawthorn meaning: hope, protection, supreme happiness.
- Birthstone: emerald. Safety: lily of the valley is highly toxic.
Lily of the Valley Meaning: The May Birth Flower
Lily of the valley has been a symbol of humility, purity and happiness for centuries. In France, giving a sprig of “muguet” on May 1 is a tradition meant to bring good luck, and it is famous as a favorite of royal weddings. The white, nodding bells and strong sweet scent make it a classic for bridal bouquets and spring birthdays.
Hawthorn Meaning: The Second May Flower
Hawthorn blossoms, white to pale pink, appear in late spring and are heavy with folklore. They stand for hope and supreme happiness, and the thorny branches were seen as protective. The tree is deeply linked to May Day celebrations in the British Isles, though some traditions held it unlucky to bring the blossom indoors.
What Each Flower Symbolizes
| Flower | Meaning | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Lily of the valley (white) | Sweetness, humility, return of happiness | Weddings, new mothers, birthdays |
| Lily of the valley (pink variety) | Gentle sweetness | Garden interest |
| Hawthorn blossom (white) | Hope, protection | Garden hedges, wildlife planting |
| Hawthorn (pink, double forms) | Joyful hope | Ornamental trees |
| Red hawthorn berries (haws) | Autumn abundance | Wildlife food |
May Birthday Gift Ideas
- A small lily of the valley posy: for adults only and away from pets.
- Emerald jewelry: the May birthstone, with a card describing the flower.
- Lily-of-the-valley-scented candle or perfume: a pet-safe way to enjoy the scent.
- A hawthorn sapling: a lasting gift for a garden or hedgerow.
- White spring bouquet: tulips, ranunculus and white roses for a similar look.
How to Grow Lily of the Valley and Hawthorn
Lily of the valley: a shade lover, hardy in about zones 2 to 7. Plant “pips” (rhizomes) in fall with the growing tip just below the surface, 3 to 4 inches (8 to 10 cm) apart, in moist, humus-rich soil. It spreads quickly by rhizomes and can become invasive, so grow it in a contained bed or large pot.
Hawthorn: a hardy, tough tree or large shrub for most temperate zones. Plant it in full sun to part shade in almost any well-drained soil, from bare-root in late fall to early spring, and prune in winter. It makes an excellent wildlife hedge with blossom for bees and berries for birds.
Common Problems and Safety
| Problem | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Lily of the valley not flowering | Too much shade or crowding | Thin clumps in fall; add compost |
| Brown leaf edges | Heat and dry soil | Mulch and water in dry spells |
| Spreading everywhere | Vigorous rhizomes | Use root barriers or pots |
| Hawthorn leaf spot or rust | Fungal disease in wet summers | Clear fallen leaves; improve airflow |
Every part of lily of the valley, including the vase water and the red berries, is poisonous to people and pets. Wear gloves, wash your hands after handling it and keep it away from children and animals. The ASPCA toxic plants list includes it.
Explore Other Birth Month Flowers
See the complete birth month flowers guide, or read the earlier months: April birth flower, March birth flower and February birth month flowers. For another shade plant, see how to grow hellebores.
Conclusion
Lily of the valley and hawthorn are two of the most storied flowers of late spring. One is a delicate gift of sweetness and good luck, the other a sturdy symbol of hope and protection. Enjoy both, but treat lily of the valley with care around children and pets.
FAQ
What is the May birth flower?
Lily of the valley is the main May birth flower, and hawthorn is the second.
What does lily of the valley symbolize?
Sweetness, humility and the return of happiness.
Is lily of the valley poisonous?
Yes. All parts contain cardiac glycosides and are dangerous to people and pets if eaten. Seek medical or veterinary help straight away after ingestion.
Why is hawthorn called may?
It blossoms in May in the UK and much of Europe, and is closely tied to May Day customs.
What is the May birthstone?
Emerald, whose green echoes the lush foliage of lily of the valley.
