May birth flower: lily of the valley and hawthorn

Two May flowers

Popular lists name lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis) and hawthorn (Crataegus), also known as the may tree, for May. Which one appears depends on the source, and neither list is official. Lily of the valley is a ground cover with arching stems of white bells. Hawthorn is a thorny shrub or small tree covered in white or pale pink blossom around the same weeks.

What they are associated with

• Lily of the valley: sweetness, humility and the return of happiness in many Victorian flower books. In France it is traditionally given on May 1.
• Hawthorn: often tied to hope and protection in British folk tradition. It is also called “may blossom” because it flowers around May in Britain.
• Meanings differ between books, so treat them as common ties.

Growing them

Lily of the valley prefers shade and rich, damp soil. It spreads by underground stems and can quietly take over a bed, so give it a bounded corner. Plant the pips in fall or early spring. Hawthorn is a tough, wildlife-friendly choice for hedges and does well in full sun with little care.

Gift ideas for May birthdays

A small jar of lily of the valley has a perfume that fills a room, but it is best enjoyed as a gift for adults rather than a household with young children. A potted plant or a bunch of hawthorn blossom branches works for a spring celebration. Green foliage echoes the emerald birthstone, so a green-and-white palette suits May well.

Safety note

Every part of lily of the valley, including the berries and the water in the vase, is poisonous. Keep it far from children and pets, wear gloves when handling it and do not eat any part. Hawthorn thorns are sharp, so handle branches carefully.

Zodiac connection

May birthdays are Taurus until about May 20 and Gemini after that. There is no official match, but the fragrant, steady lily of the valley is often placed with Taurus in casual lists.