The aster flower, representing the month of September, is a captivating bloom steeped in history, mythology, and symbolism. While not a gemstone, the aster holds a significant place as a birth flower, embodying love, wisdom, faith, and valor. This article delves into the history, origins, cultural meanings, and symbolism associated with the aster, exploring its journey from ancient Greek lore to its modern-day recognition as a September birth flower.
History and Lore
The genus Aster once encompassed a vast array of species, numbering close to 600. However, recent botanical research has led to a reclassification, reducing the genus to approximately 200 species. The aster is primarily found in Eurasia, with a single species, the sea aster, native to the United Kingdom. It is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, a group that also includes sunflowers. The most commonly observed aster displays a beautiful bluish-purple hue, though variations in orange, red, and other shades also exist.
The name “aster” itself originates from the Greek word for “star,” a fitting descriptor for the flower’s star-shaped blooms. This connection to stars is deeply rooted in Greek mythology. One legend recounts the story of Astraea, a Titan goddess associated with nocturnal oracles and shooting stars. Distressed by the absence of stars visible during the day, Astraea wept, and wherever her tears fell, aster flowers blossomed. This tale explains both the flower’s name and its celestial association. Another myth suggests that asters sprang forth when Virgo scattered stardust across the Earth, further reinforcing the flower’s link to the stars.
Cultural Significance and Symbolism
Throughout history and across various cultures, the aster has held diverse meanings. In ancient times, people believed that burning aster leaves could ward off evil spirits and negative energy, attributing positive symbolism to the flower’s association with patience, good fortune, and female energy. It was even used medicinally to treat ailments such as migraines, colds, and muscle aches.
In France, the aster serves as a poignant symbol of remembrance, traditionally placed on the graves of soldiers who died in battle, signifying their sacrifice. This practice highlights the flower’s association with honor and respect. The aster also holds a unique place in Hungarian history, being associated with the Hungarian Revolution, an event sometimes referred to as the “Aster Revolution” due to participants wearing asters in their lapels.
The symbolism of the aster extends beyond collective remembrance and into personal meanings. Generally, the aster represents love, wisdom, and faith. However, the specific color of the aster adds layers of nuance to its symbolism. Purple asters, the most popular variety, symbolize wisdom and royalty, making them a fitting gift for a 20th wedding anniversary. White asters signify purity and innocence, often incorporated into bridal bouquets. Red asters represent undying devotion, offering a more affordable alternative to roses for expressing romantic love. Pink asters embody sensitivity and affection, suitable for various romantic occasions.
Botanical Characteristics and Varieties
The aster is characterized by its upright stems and often narrow leaves, supporting numerous small, daisy-like flowers. The flower heads themselves are composed of numerous miniature florets, typically around 300, clustered together to create the star-like appearance. While the aster is indigenous to North America, it is also found in Europe, South America, and Asia.
The Asteraceae family, to which the aster belongs, is the second-largest family of flowers, showcasing the diversity within this botanical group. While over 600 varieties once existed within the Aster genus, current classifications recognize only two primary subspecies. The flower thrives in the fall, typically blooming between September and November, solidifying its association with the month of September.
The Aster as a Birth Flower
For those born in September, the aster serves as their designated birth flower, embodying the qualities of wisdom, faith, and courage. Individuals associated with this flower are often considered brave, wise, and steadfast in their beliefs. Historically, the aster has been linked to patience and purity, further enhancing its positive connotations.
The aster shares its birth flower status with the morning glory. Both flowers symbolize remembrance and are associated with honesty and faithfulness. The aster, with its star-shaped head, comes in a variety of colors – white, lilac, red, and pink – each carrying its own unique meaning.
Beyond Flowers: The September Birthstone
While the aster represents September’s birth flower, the month also boasts a celebrated birthstone: the sapphire. Renowned for its rich violet-blue hues, the sapphire’s name derives from the Greek word for “blue.” However, sapphires are not limited to blue; they also occur in a rainbow of colors, including yellow, orange, and even pink, with the latter being among the rarest varieties.
Conclusion
The aster flower, September’s birth flower, is a captivating bloom rich in history, mythology, and symbolism. From its origins in Greek legend to its modern-day association with love, wisdom, and faith, the aster continues to hold a special place in cultural traditions and personal expressions. Its star-shaped form and diverse color palette make it a versatile and meaningful flower, representing a connection to the celestial realm and embodying the virtues of those born under its influence. While the sapphire shines as September’s birthstone, the aster’s delicate beauty and profound symbolism ensure its enduring legacy as a cherished emblem of the month.