September is a month of transition, marking the shift from the warmth of summer to the cooler embrace of autumn. This duality is beautifully embodied by the two official birth flowers of the month—the Aster and the Morning Glory. These flowers not only add vibrant color to late summer gardens but also carry rich historical and symbolic meanings that have endured for centuries. Together, they reflect themes of love, wisdom, and the fleeting beauty of life, making them fitting symbols for a month that bridges two seasons.
This article will explore the characteristics, history, and cultural significance of September’s birth flowers. We will delve into their botanical properties, examine their roles in ancient and Victorian traditions, and uncover the deeper meanings that have been attributed to them across time. Additionally, we will examine their connection to September’s birthstone, the Sapphire, and how the two share symbolic parallels.
History and Lore
The tradition of associating specific flowers with months of the year dates back to ancient Rome, where flowers were believed to carry special powers and could influence the character of those born under their reign. Each month was assigned a flower that symbolized certain virtues, characteristics, or even omens. This practice was later adopted and expanded during the Victorian era, when the language of flowers—known as floriography—became a sophisticated and nuanced means of communication.
The Victorian language of flowers was particularly elaborate. During this time, flowers were used to convey messages that could not be spoken openly, especially in matters of love, affection, and social standing. Different flowers and their colors carried distinct meanings, and these messages were often exchanged through floral arrangements or gifts. For example, a bouquet of purple asters might have been sent to symbolize wisdom and royalty, while a morning glory might be used to express unrequited love or the fleeting nature of beauty.
The current list of birth flowers used today is a blend of these historical traditions, adapted and refined over time. In the case of September, the month is associated with two flowers: the Aster and the Morning Glory. This dual association is relatively unique and reflects the diverse symbolism and beauty that these flowers bring to the late summer and early autumn landscape.
The Aster, in particular, has a rich mythological background. According to Greek legend, the Aster flower came into being when Astraea, the goddess of justice and purity, was moved to tears by the corruption of the world. As she cried, her tears fell to the earth and transformed into star-shaped flowers—asters. The name "aster" itself is derived from the Greek word aster, meaning "star," a reference to the flower’s radiant appearance.
The Morning Glory, on the other hand, is a more modern addition to the birth flower tradition, though its symbolic meanings have deep roots. The flower is known for its ephemeral nature; its trumpet-shaped blooms open at dawn and often wither by the afternoon. This fleeting beauty has led to associations with the preciousness of each new day and the idea of unrequited love. In Victorian times, a gift of a morning glory might have been a subtle way to express affection or longing without direct words.
Geological Formation and Botanical Characteristics
While the terms "geological formation" and "mining locations" are typically used in reference to gemstones, it is important to note that flowers, being plant life, do not form in the same way. However, the Aster and the Morning Glory have distinct botanical properties that define their growth habits, preferred climates, and the environments in which they thrive.
Aster (Asteraceae Family)
Asters belong to the Asteraceae family, one of the largest plant families, which also includes daisies and sunflowers. The name "aster" is derived from the Greek word aster, meaning "star," a nod to the flower’s star-like appearance. Asters are primarily found in Eurasia, though many species have been naturalized in North America.
There are approximately 180 species of Asters, with colors ranging from white and pink to deep purples and blues. The most commonly associated color is the striking bluish-purple, which has long been a symbol of wisdom and royalty. Asters bloom from late summer to fall, peaking in September, and are often referred to as "Michaelmas daisies" because they bloom around Michaelmas Day on September 29.
Asters are known for their daisy-like heads, which consist of a central disk of tiny flowers surrounded by long, slender petals. They are perennials, meaning they return year after year, and are often used in gardens to attract pollinators such as monarch butterflies and other insects.
Morning Glory (Ipomoea spp.)
Morning Glories belong to the Convolvulaceae family and are part of the genus Ipomoea, which includes nearly 1,000 species. The name Ipomoea is derived from the Greek words ippon (worm) and mæa (resembling), referring to the winding stems of the plant.
Morning Glories are fast-growing vines that are known for their large, trumpet-shaped flowers, which open in the early morning and close by the afternoon. The flowers typically last only a single day, which is why they are often seen as symbols of fleeting beauty and the importance of each new beginning.
These flowers come in a wide range of colors, including deep blue, purple, pink, and white. The most common species associated with September is Ipomoea tricolor, known for its bicolored petals.
Morning Glories thrive in warm, sunny environments and are commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. They are often grown in gardens for their vibrant colors and ability to cover trellises, fences, and arbors quickly.
Symbolism and Cultural Significance
The symbolism of the Aster and Morning Glory is deeply rooted in history and varies across cultures. However, there are common themes that have persisted over time.
Aster Symbolism
The Aster is a powerful symbol of love, wisdom, and faith. In the language of flowers, the Aster is associated with valor and patience, making it a fitting symbol for a month that bridges two seasons. Different colors of Aster carry different meanings:
- Purple Asters are the most popular and are associated with wisdom and royalty. In European history, purple was a color worn by royalty to signify nobility and power.
- White Asters symbolize purity and innocence, as well as new beginnings.
- Red and Pink Asters are often used to express undying devotion.
In Christian symbolism, the Aster is linked to the Feast of St. Michael, celebrated on September 29. As one of the last flowers to bloom in late summer, it is known as the Michaelmas Daisy. This connection adds a spiritual dimension to the flower’s symbolism, suggesting a time of reflection and preparation as the year comes to a close.
Morning Glory Symbolism
The Morning Glory is a symbol of affection, love, and the fleeting nature of beauty. In Victorian times, the flower was often used to express unrequited love or the idea that love is best experienced in the morning, when the flower is in full bloom.
The Morning Glory is also associated with new beginnings and the idea that each day is a fresh start. This makes it a particularly fitting flower for September, a month that marks the beginning of the academic year in many countries.
Interestingly, some species of Morning Glory have been used in shamanistic and spiritual practices due to the psychoactive properties of their seeds, which contain lysergic acid amide (LSA). These uses are less common today but highlight the flower’s complex and multifaceted history.
Practical Care and Cultivation
Both the Aster and the Morning Glory are relatively easy to grow and make excellent additions to gardens and landscapes. However, they do have specific care requirements that should be followed to ensure their health and longevity.
Caring for Asters
Asters thrive in full sun to partial shade and prefer well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant once established, but they benefit from regular watering during dry periods. Asters are also attractive to pollinators, making them a great choice for wildlife gardens.
To encourage longer blooming periods, it is recommended to deadhead the flowers regularly. This means removing the spent blooms to prevent the plant from going to seed and redirecting its energy into new flower production.
Asters are also known for their resilience and can survive in a range of climates. They are hardy perennials, returning year after year and often becoming more robust over time.
Caring for Morning Glories
Morning Glories require full sun and well-drained soil to grow properly. They are fast-growing vines, so they should be planted in early spring to allow them to establish before the summer heat.
Morning Glories benefit from weekly watering, especially during dry spells. While they are relatively drought-tolerant, they will produce the best blooms when kept consistently moist.
Because Morning Glories bloom only for a single day, it is important to plant them in areas where their beauty can be appreciated fully. They are excellent for covering trellises, fences, and arbors, and they can quickly transform a garden into a vibrant, colorful display.
Connection to the September Birthstone: Sapphire
The September birthstone, the Sapphire, shares a number of symbolic and aesthetic connections with the month’s birth flowers. Sapphires are known for their deep blue color, which is reminiscent of the autumn skies and the vibrant hues of Asters and Morning Glories. The wisdom and royalty associated with Asters align with the traditional meanings of Sapphires, which have long been associated with spirituality, clarity, and nobility.
In the Victorian era, Sapphires were believed to attract heavenly blessings and were often worn by clergy and royalty. This aligns with the purity and spiritual significance of Asters and Morning Glories, making the combination of flower and gemstone a powerful symbol of transition, beauty, and wisdom.
The fleeting beauty of the Morning Glory also serves as a reminder of the enduring nature of gemstones like Sapphires, which are treasured for their durability and lasting value. This contrast highlights the ephemeral and eternal, both of which are themes associated with September’s birth flowers and birthstone.
Conclusion
September’s birth flowers, the Aster and the Morning Glory, are more than just beautiful additions to the late summer garden. They carry deep historical, symbolic, and cultural significance that has been passed down through generations. The Aster, with its star-like blooms and associations with wisdom and royalty, and the Morning Glory, with its ephemeral beauty and themes of new beginnings, together capture the essence of September—a month that bridges two seasons and symbolizes both endings and new beginnings.
Understanding the meanings and care of these flowers allows us to appreciate their beauty on a deeper level, both in our gardens and in the traditions that have celebrated them for centuries. Whether you are a gardener, a gemstone enthusiast, or simply someone who loves the natural world, the September birth flowers offer a rich and meaningful connection to the world around us.