May Birth Flowers: The Complete Guide to Lily of the Valley and Hawthorn Meanings

As spring reaches its fullest expression, May birthdays are celebrated with two enchanting blooms that capture the essence of this verdant season: the lily of the valley and the hawthorn blossom. For those wondering "what flower represents May," these delightful blooms offer a beautiful contrast—lily of the valley with its delicate, bell-shaped white flowers cascading from slender stems with a heavenly fragrance, and hawthorn with its clusters of white or pink blossoms adorning thorny branches. For those born in May, these flowers represent not just spring's peak beauty but personal emblems rich with meaning and historical significance. In this guide, we'll explore why these captivating blooms hold special significance for May birthdays and how they've been treasured across cultures and throughout history.

May's Enchanting Duo: Lily of the Valley and Hawthorn

Historical Significance and Origin

Lily of the Valley

The lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis), whose name means "that which belongs to May," has roots in Eurasia but has been cultivated worldwide for centuries. According to Christian legend, these delicate flowers sprang from the tears of the Virgin Mary at the crucifixion of Jesus, earning them the nickname "Mary's tears." Another charming legend suggests they appeared where St. Leonard bled while battling a dragon.

Throughout history, lily of the valley has been associated with important events and traditions. In France, it's customary to give sprigs of lily of the valley (muguet) on May 1st (La Fête du Muguet) to celebrate the arrival of spring. The tradition began in 1561 when King Charles IX received lily of the valley as a lucky charm and subsequently gave the flowers to the ladies of his court each May 1st.

Hawthorn

The hawthorn (Crataegus), also known as May tree or May flower, has deep historical roots in European traditions. Native to temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America, this flowering shrub has been intertwined with May celebrations for centuries. Its name derives from the Anglo-Saxon "hagathorn," meaning "hedge thorn," reflecting its traditional use as a natural boundary marker.

In Celtic and British folklore, hawthorn was associated with fertility and was central to May Day celebrations, when its blossoms were gathered to decorate maypoles and homes. However, it was considered unlucky to bring the flowers indoors outside of these celebrations, as they were believed to bring death into the home—likely a practical warning, as the trimethylamine in hawthorn blossoms produces a scent similar to decaying flesh.

Color Meanings and Lily of the Valley Symbolism

The lily of the valley's pristine white blooms carry rich symbolism:

• Return of happiness - heralding the joy of spring's return
• Sweetness - emanating from its intoxicating fragrance
• Purity - represented by its immaculate white bells
• Humility - with flowers that bow their heads
• Trust - inspiring confidence in better days ahead

Beyond these qualities, lily of the valley symbolism encompasses:

• Motherhood - connected to nurturing and protection
• Renewal - marking the fullness of spring
• Good luck - believed to bring fortune to those who possess it
• Tears of joy - representing happiness after sorrow

Hawthorn Meaning and Symbolism

Hawthorn carries equally profound symbolism:

• Hope - blooming when spring is in full glory
• Protection - with thorns that guard its beautiful flowers
• Fertility - associated with abundant growth and new life
• Contradiction - embodying beauty amid thorns
• Transformation - representing life's changes and transitions

In folklore and tradition, hawthorn symbolizes:

• Balance - standing at the threshold between worlds
• Love - particularly in Celtic traditions
• Cleansing - used in rituals to purify spaces
• Patience - teaching that beauty comes with protection

Cultural Significance Across Different Traditions

May birth flower traditions span cultures worldwide:

• In French culture, lily of the valley represents good luck and is given on May Day
• In Celtic traditions, hawthorn was sacred to the goddess of fertility and marked the beginning of summer
• In Victorian language of flowers, lily of the valley meant "return of happiness"
• In Christian symbolism, lily of the valley represents humility and Christ's second coming
• In European folklore, hawthorn was believed to protect against evil spirits and lightning

Both flowers have inspired artists and poets throughout history, from medieval manuscripts depicting hawthorn to Art Nouveau designs featuring lily of the valley's elegant form.

Perfect Occasions for May Birth Flower Gifts

Looking for the perfect May birth month flower jewelry or floral gifts? Lily of the valley and hawthorn make thoughtful presents for:

• May birthdays and anniversaries
• Mother's Day celebrations honoring nurturing spirits
• Spring weddings with their symbolic purity and hope
• Expressions of new beginnings and fresh starts
• May Day and spring festivals celebrating renewal

The Power of Birth Flower Jewelry

Why People Choose Birth Flower Jewelry

Understanding lily of the valley and hawthorn jewelry meaning helps appreciate why these pieces are treasured by those born in May. Birth month flower jewelry creates a personal connection that combines natural beauty with individual identity. Unlike conventional birthstones, flower-inspired jewelry carries rich symbolism tied to seasonal rhythms and ancient wisdom.

May flower-inspired pieces allow wearers to carry the essence of lily of the valley and hawthorn throughout the year. The symbolic significance behind these May birth flower jewelry pieces creates an enduring tribute that connects to both personal heritage and the natural world.

Our Signature Collection

Our Birth Flower Necklace collection captures the essence of lily of the valley in precious metal. Each piece is designed to:

• Celebrate May birthdays with authentic botanical details
• Incorporate traditional symbolism in contemporary designs
• Provide wearable art that connects to nature's wisdom
• Offer versatile pieces that can be styled for everyday wear or special occasions

How to Select the Perfect May Birth Flower Jewelry

When choosing the ideal May birth flower jewelry as a meaningful gift:

• Consider the recipient's style preferences (delicate designs or statement pieces)
• Select metals that complement their existing jewelry collection
• Think about incorporating birthstone elements (emerald) for added personalization
  

Gift-Giving Occasions

Our May birth flower jewelry makes particularly meaningful gifts for:

• May birthday celebrations
• Spring weddings and anniversaries
• Mother's Day tributes
• Graduation ceremonies marking new beginnings
• Celebrating personal transformations and renewals

Caring for Your May Birth Flower Jewelry

Simple Care Tips

To keep your lily of the valley and hawthorn-inspired jewelry looking its best:

• Gently wipe pieces with a soft, lint-free cloth after wearing
• Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, including perfumes and cleaning products
• Remove before swimming or bathing to prevent tarnishing or damage
• Apply cosmetics and hair products before putting on your jewelry

Storage Recommendations

Proper storage ensures your May flower pieces remain pristine:

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Keep pieces separated to prevent scratching
• Consider anti-tarnish pouches for silver pieces
• Maintain moderate humidity levels in storage areas

When to Seek Professional Cleaning

While regular home care maintains your jewelry's beauty, professional attention is recommended:

• Annually for frequently worn pieces
• When intricate details become dulled or filled with debris
• If stones become loose or settings appear damaged
• When precious metal finishes show significant tarnishing

Modern Gift-Giving Traditions

Contemporary gift-givers often present lily of the valley and hawthorn jewelry to:

• Mark milestone May birthdays
• Celebrate achievements requiring perseverance
• Commemorate spring festivals and May Day
• Honor mothers and maternal figures
• Welcome spring babies with a birth month keepsake

Popular Combinations with Other Elements

May birth flower jewelry pairs beautifully with:

• Emerald (May's birthstone) for a complete birth month tribute
• Pearl accents to complement lily of the valley's pristine white
• Rose quartz to enhance hawthorn's connection to love and the heart
• White topaz for sparkling clarity and light

Celebrate the special May-born people in your life with our exclusive Birth Flower Necklace collection. Each piece captures the purity, renewal, and natural beauty that May birthdays represent.

Visit our website to explore our complete collection of Birth Flower Necklaces and other pieces that celebrate these beautiful blooms. Sign up for our newsletter to receive insights into flower meanings throughout the year, plus exclusive offers on birthday jewelry.

We'd love to hear your connection to May's special flowers—share your stories in the comments below!

Explore other birth flower guides in our collection:

• April: Sweet Pea and Daisy
• June: Rose and Honeysuckle
• July: Larkspur and Water Lily