Did you know that each month of the year has its own specific flower, or oftentimes more than one? Follow along as we do a series on these ‘birth month flowers’ and you’ll be sure to learn something new and exciting! In June, the traditional birth flowers are the rose and the honeysuckle.
June is a month that marks the beautiful, final transition from spring to summer in the Ozarks. And with it comes an array of vibrant flowers that bloom in full Missouri floral glory.
And two of the most iconic flowers associated with this month are the rose and honeysuckle.
The rose and honeysuckle are two of the most popular flowers in June, and they’re both associated with rich history and symbolism.
While their meanings may vary slightly depending on the culture and region, they both represent a range of positive, uplifting, and even romantic ideals—and whether you’re looking for a way to celebrate the beauty of summer or show your appreciation for someone special, these flowers may be the perfect options for June.
What Do Rose and Honeysuckle Flowers Mean?
The rose (one of the most iconic and romantic flowers of all time) is a well-known symbol of love, romance, courage, passion, beauty, appreciation, or admiration.
In fact, each rose color also carries its own more specific, deeper meaning as well. For example—a thornless red rose means ‘love at first sight,’ while yellow roses symbolize ideals such as friendship and joy.
The honeysuckle is a symbol of happiness, sweetness, and affection. It can also carry the meaning and interpretation of the flames of love, or even of the tenderness of love that has been lost.
The honeysuckle plant has a sweet fragrance that attracts butterflies and hummingbirds—and the flowers are often used in perfumes and potpourri.
The History of Rose and Honeysuckle Flowers
The history of these two flowers is just as fascinating as their symbolic meanings.
Roses have been cultivated for centuries. In fact, their cultivation may trace back as far as 5,000 years!
They have a long history of being associated with concepts like love and romance. In ancient Greece, the rose was a symbol of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. According to lore, she named the rose in honor of her son Eros, by rearranging just one letter of his name.
The rose was often used in love poetry and songs in medieval Europe.
The plant itself was also used in ancient times for its medicinal properties, and its sweet scent was believed to have healing powers. In medieval Europe, it was associated with the Virgin Mary, and was often used in religious ceremonies.
It was also a popular flower in Victorian England, and was often included in bridal bouquets as a symbol of purity and sweetness.
Honeysuckle flowers, interestingly enough, were originally native to East Asia, Japan, and Korea. They were brought to the U.S. back in the early 1800s as a means of providing erosion control, and also as ornamental flowers for gardens.
They were also seen as valuable for providing foraging ground and cover for wildlife.
In ancient times, the honeysuckle was considered a medicinal remedy. It was used to treat snake bites, as a topical healing ointment or rashes and sores, to decrease swelling, and even to treat medical conditions like urinary disorders, headaches, and arthritis.
Why Rose and Honeysuckle Flowers Make Perfect Gifts
Roses and honeysuckle flowers both provide a beautiful and sentimental way to show your love and appreciation for someone special.
They can be given for any occasion, but they’re especially popular for birthdays, anniversaries, and Valentine’s Day.
If you’re looking for a way to express your love, happiness, and support, roses and honeysuckle flowers are truly the perfect Ozarkian options.
Tips for Keeping Your Rose and Honeysuckle Flowers Fresh After Cutting
Need to keep your rose and honeysuckle flowers fresh for longer? Here are a few of our ‘magic tips’ to help your flowers stay fresh and beautiful for as long as possible:
- Choose your flowers wisely. Look for flowers that are fresh and healthy. Avoid flowers that are wilted or have brown spots.
- Cut the stems at an angle. This will help the flowers absorb more water.
- Remove any leaves or foliage that would fall below the water line. This helps to prevent bacteria from growing in the water.
- Fill your vase with fresh water. You can add a little flower food to the water as well, to help keep the flowers fresh.
- Don’t overcrowd the vase. This prevents the flowers from wilting.
- Place the vase in a cool, shaded area. Direct sunlight and heat can accelerate aging and wilting.
- Change the water every two days. This keeps the water fresh and free of bacteria.
With a little care and attention, your rose and honeysuckle flowers should stay fresh and beautiful for weeks to come.
Conclusion
We hope this article has inspired you to give some floral gifts this June.
Roses and honeysuckles are two of the most popular flowers in June, and they’re sure to make a big impression.
If you’re not sure where to start, we’d be happy to help. Just stop by Linda’s and we’ll help you find the perfect bouquet for your special someone.
We’re here to make every special day in June extra special for you and your loved ones.
See you soon!