May is a month of blooming gardens and fresh beginnings — and its birthflowers reflect just that. The two official May birthflowers are the lily of the valley and the hawthorn blossom. Both symbolize beauty, renewal, and love in different ways.
Whether you’re giving a thoughtful gift or simply curious about your May birth flower, this guide explores the meaning, symbolism, and history of these delicate blooms.
May Birth Flower Lily of the Valley: Delicate and Pure
Symbolism
The lily of the valley is the most widely recognized May birthflower. With its tiny white bell-shaped blooms and soft fragrance, it’s long been a symbol of:
- Sweetness and humility
- Return to happiness
- Purity and renewal
- Love and devotion
Often associated with spring weddings and new beginnings, this elegant flower is perfect for celebrating someone born in the heart of spring.
History and Cultural Meaning
Lily of the valley has deep roots in folklore and tradition:
- In Christian symbolism, it’s known as “Our Lady’s Tears,” said to have grown where the Virgin Mary’s tears fell at the crucifixion.
- In Victorian flower language, it represented a “return to happiness,” making it a symbol of hope and healing.
- In France, it’s traditional to gift lily of the valley on May 1st (La Fête du Muguet) to bring good luck.
As a flower for May, it perfectly captures the gentle strength and graceful spirit of those born during this lush, vibrant month.
May Birth Flower Hawthorn: Wild Beauty and Protection
Symbolism
The hawthorn blossom is a lesser-known but equally meaningful May birthday flower. It grows on flowering shrubs or small trees and is often found in hedgerows and woodlands.
Hawthorn symbolizes:
- Hope and fertility
- Protection and cleansing
- Love and enchantment
- Mystical transformation
Its white or pink blossoms bloom in late spring, making it a beautiful reminder of nature’s cycle of growth and renewal.
History and Cultural Meaning
Hawthorn holds a special place in Celtic mythology, where it was considered sacred and believed to house fairies or spirits. Cutting down a hawthorn tree was thought to bring bad luck.
In medieval Europe, hawthorn flowers were used in May Day celebrations and were associated with courtship, joy, and rebirth. As a May birthflower, hawthorn represents the wild, transformative side of spring.
Gifting May Birthflowers
Looking for a thoughtful and symbolic gift? The May birthflowers are perfect for expressing love, peace, and optimism. Here are a few gift ideas:
- A bouquet of lily of the valley or hawthorn blossoms
- A birthflower necklace or charm
- Pressed flower art in a frame or journal
- A custom May birthflower tattoo design
- Lily of the valley–scented candles, soaps, or perfumes
Include a short note about the flower’s meaning to make your gift personal and meaningful.
Final Thoughts
The May birthflowers — lily of the valley and hawthorn — beautifully reflect the freshness and emotional richness of the season. Whether you’re drawn to the soft, fragrant lily or the wild, enchanting hawthorn, these blooms are timeless symbols of love, renewal, and spring’s quiet magic.
Explore More Birthflowers
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Want to complete your May birthday symbolism? Learn about the May birthstone and discover how it pairs with your birthflower.