August birth flowers & what they symbolise

What are August’s birth month flowers?

Leos and Virgos can rejoice (yay!) because August has not one, but two birth flowers: the vibrant poppy and the elegant gladiolus. Each of these flowers brings its own distinct beauty and meaning, making August a month rich in floral symbolism.

Why does August have two birth flowers?

Having two birth flowers allows for a broader range of symbolism and aesthetics. The poppy and gladiolus complement each other wonderfully, with the poppy's boldness and the gladiolus's grace offering diverse representations of strength, beauty, and remembrance.

These beautiful blooms make August a particularly special month for floral enthusiasts and those celebrating birthdays and weddings.

What do poppy flowers symbolise?

Poppy flowers are rich in symbolism, carrying meanings that have evolved across different cultures and historical periods. Here are some key symbolic meanings:

• Remembrance & consolation: Most notably, poppies are a powerful symbol of remembrance. They gained prominence after World War I, largely due to the famous war poem "In Flanders Fields" by John McCrae. The red poppy came to represent the blood of fallen soldiers, serving as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the war. 
• Imagination & dreams: Poppies are also associated with imagination and dreams. Their delicate, ethereal appearance lends them a dreamy quality, linking them to creativity and the fanciful realms of the mind. 
• Eternal sleep & peace: The poppy's association with sleep and peace comes from ancient times, when the opium poppy's sedative properties were well known. This connection to sleep extends to the idea of eternal rest and death, symbolising a peaceful transition and consolation for those who have passed. 
• Pleasure & success: In some cultures, poppies symbolise pleasure and success, reflecting the joy and fulfilment one can experience in life. Their vibrant and cheerful appearance adds to this positive connotation. 

Fun facts about poppies

• Historical significance: Poppies were found in ancient Egyptian tombs, indicating their long-standing cultural importance. 
• Medicinal uses: The opium poppy has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, though not without controversy. 
• Variety of colours: While red poppies are the most famous, they also come in yellow, white, pink, and even blue. You can find out more about the meaning and psychology of flower colours in our recent blog. 

Add a touch of this meaningful flower to your home with our beautiful artificial poppy stem. 

What do gladiolus symbolise?

The gladiolus, also known as the sword lily, symbolises strength, moral integrity, and infatuation. Its name comes from the Latin word "gladius," meaning sword, reflecting the flower's long, pointed shape.

Fun facts about gladiolus

• Origins: Gladiolus is native to South Africa and the Mediterranean region. 
• Variety: There are over 260 species of gladiolus, offering a wide range of colours and patterns. 
• Cultural significance: In the language of flowers, gladiolus can convey a message of strong character and love at first sight. 

Blooming Artificial alternatives to August blooms

While real flowers are lovely, faux flowers provide a long-lasting, maintenance-free alternative that retains their beauty year-round. At Blooming Artificial, we offer a variety of artificial flowers that capture the essence of August's birth flowers.

• Explore our artificial delphinium stem for a similar style to the gladiolus.

• Our meadow bunch offers a beautiful and diverse arrangement perfect for any occasion.

For more options, visit our artificial single stems and shop by flower type sections to find the perfect faux flowers for your home.

So, whether you're looking for the perfect blooms for birthdays, weddings, or special occasions like Father’s Day or Mother’s Day, we’ve got plenty of guidance and inspiration to help.

Need help with birthday flowers?

If you need advice on August's birth month flowers, get in touch with our team. Alternatively, check out our full article on birth month flowers or read our guide on the best flowers for birthdays.