What Is January's Birth Flower? Carnations and Snowdrops Meanings

We'd be surprised if you weren't familiar with your zodiac sign, but do you know your birth flower? Similar to gemstones, every month has a dedicated petal with a special meaning behind it. If you already thought January babies are the flower of the flock, they get even better, because this month has two blooms.

Below, find out what January's birth flowers are and what makes them special (other than being associated with your birthday, of course!). Then, combine botany with astrology to find the best flower for your zodiac sign.

What are January's birth flowers?

January has two birth flowers—the carnation and the snowdrop. Carnations are one of the most common commercial flowers used in weddings, on corsages, and in mixed arrangements. Snowdrops are less likely to be in a bouquet, but you'll notice them around late winter and early spring as some of the first flowers to bloom.

What do carnations symbolize?

Theophrastus, a Greek botanist, originally named carnations dianthus, combining the words Dios (Gods) and Anthos (flower) to translate to "flower of the gods." But, you could extend that definition and call them the flower of everything for their versatility. Coming in nearly every color on the rainbow, it's no surprise carnations make an appearance at most holidays and special events. They're generally associated with love and remembrance, but each color has a different meaning. You notice so many red carnations on Valentine's Day, for example, because a dark red carnation is a symbol of deep love. Pink conveys gratitude and white represents purity and innocence.

But, although you can trace the roots of these flowers back to Greece, when they used them to make garlands and other art, they're more than just decor. According to Britannica, in Elizabethan times, Europeans added carnations to spiced wine, created essential oils, and even used them to treat fevers.