August Birth Flowers: Symbolism and Meaning of Gladiolus and Poppies

Did you know every birth month has its own flower? Or, in the case of August, flowers — plural: gladiolus and poppies.

That’s right: If you look up your birth month, you’ll find your associated flower or flowers and their symbolism. For example, August’s birth flowers are gladiolus and poppies, two vibrant plants with colorful blooms. Both flowers carry their own unique meanings, gifting August with positive themes as the summer draws to a close. 

Interested in learning more about August’s birth flowers? In this article, we’ll dive into the deep symbolism of gladiolus and poppies.

Gladiolus vs. Poppies: What’s the Difference?

Gladiolus, part of the iris family, is a tall, slender, hardy flower that boasts multiple blooms appearing as rows. Thriving in full sunlight during late summer and into autumn, the flowers are typically bright colors. Their most common colors include pink, purple, red, orange, and yellow, but some gladiolus flowers are white. Depending on the color of the bloom, it might hold different spiritual meanings.

Poppies, part of the Papaveraceae family, are less hardy and more delicate, blooming from midsummer to early autumn. With bright red and orange petals and black button centers, these flowers are popular garden plants. Their symbolism is tied to power over death but varies depending on their various cultural and religious interpretations.

Meaning of Gladiolus in Different Cultures/Religions

Greek Mythology

In Greek mythology, gladiolus is associated with Apollo, one of the most popular gods. He embodied music, poetry, sun, archery, and prophecy, among other things. Additionally, Apollo was commonly associated with healing and intellect.

In one of the classic yet tragic stories of Apollo, the god of archery accidentally Hyacinthus while teaching him how to throw a discus. After his passing, a gladiolus flower grew from his corpse, symbolizing remembrance. 

Hinduism

In Hinduism, the gladiolus flower is associated Vishnu, the “preserver of the universe.” It reminds us that we’re all connected to a higher power — we all are spiritual beings. 

Gladiolus also represents purity, innocence, and humility. The flower serves as a symbol of integrity, embodying the idea of remaining humble and pure in our interactions and achievements. 

Japan

In Japan, many view the gladiolus flower as a representation of the samurai sword. This association gives the flowers its symbolism of strength, power, and perseverance. It embodies the idea of remaining determined and brave in the face of adversity.

Ancient Rome

Due to their shape, gladiolus flowers often resemble a sword (as noted above). In Ancient Rome, these flowers were associated with gladiators, symbolizing strength, pride, and victory — especially in a battle. 

Spiritual Meaning

Spiritually speaking, gladiolus flowers embody grace and resilience. More specifically, they symbolize faithfulness, strength, moral integrity, dependability, and perseverance.

Meaning of Poppies in Different Cultures/Religions

Greek Mythology

In Greek mythology, poppies are associated with Morpheus, the god of sleep and dreams, as well as many other goddesses and characters. Because of this association, the flowers resemble peace and rest. Additionally, many Greek athletes apparently used poppies as a source of health and strength, mixing their seeds with honey before performing. 

Hinduism

In Hinduism, poppies represent the fresh beginnings associated with death. Death doesn’t have to mean ceasing to exist; in fact, parts of us need to die so others can be reborn. They’re also a symbol of fertility and new life.

Japan

While poppies typically have a strong association with death and remembrance, in Japan, the flower is recognized as a fun-loving symbol. In fact, poppies embody passion and excitement for life. Someone who is fun-loving” approaches life with a lighthearted yet lively spirit. 

Ancient Rome

Similar to its Greek symbolism, poppies’ Roman symbolism is tied to sleep, peace, and death. In fact, many used opium extracted from poppies as a sedative. Additionally, they often serve as a token of remembrance for those who have passed. 

Christianity

In the Bible, poppies were used to symbolize the blood of Christ as well as his ascension to heaven. Because Jesus was resurrected after dying on the cross, he remains a symbol of eternal life beyond the physical realm. Similarly, these flowers are regarded as signs of rebirth and everlasting life.

Spiritual Meaning

Spiritually, poppies carry various meanings, such as reincarnation, eternal life, sacrifice, and the connection between life and death. These flowers remind us that we’re all connected to the spiritual realm and can experience rebirth and renewal many times throughout our journeys.

Symbolism of Gladiolus

Strength and Perseverance

Gladiolus flowers symbolize strength and perseverance through hard times. These flowers are known to be hardy, reminding us how much we can endure as humans, too. Because of their resemblance to swords, gladiolus is a sign of facing adversities and standing up for yourself, stepping into your power.

Love and Infatuation

Gladiolus flowers often represent love and infatuation — especially the pink and red species. Many people gift these flowers to lovers for anniversaries or weddings due to their association with romance. Their vibrant beauty serves as the perfect reminder of deep feelings and intimacy.

However, these flowers don’t just embody romantic love. They often represent the love of a mother for her child or vice versa, and many will purchase bouquets for holidays like Mother’s Day or birthdays.

Purity and Innocence

White gladiolus flowers are a symbol of purity and innocence, especially in religions like Christianity. The color white itself is associated with morality and chastity, and the flower is deeply tied to spirituality. Many spiritual individuals believe all living beings are pure at their core, so this spiritual meaning of a white gladiolus is one of pure intentions and integrity. 

Death and Remembrance

Though associated with death, the gladiolus flower serves more as a reminder of those who have passed away. They pay tribute to our ancestors’ memories that still live on. 

Symbolism of Poppies

Death and Rebirth

Like gladiolus, poppies are also associated with death; but poppies also symbolize rebirth. Death doesn’t always mean the ending of life. In fact, it often means a new chapter or a new side of ourselves we’re ready to embrace. 

Rest and Healing

Across various cultures, poppies represent sleep and health, which of course go hand-in-hand. Rest is crucial to your overall well-being, and this gorgeous flower reminds us how important peaceful rest is. In fact, poppies actually contain some properties that can cause relaxation and sleepiness.

New Life and Fertility

Because of their association with resurrection and eternal life, poppies are a powerful symbol of fertility and new life. That’s why many will gift new or expecting mothers with poppies to celebrate the beautiful life they’re growing. 

Passion and Excitement

Despite its association with death, poppies also symbolize excitement for life. Oftentimes, we take for granted the many blessings we have in our day to day. Poppies remind us to never lose our passion for simply living.  

Bottom Line

Both of August’s birth month flowers carry deep, positive symbolism that reminds us of the important things in life. If your birthday is in August, you might relate to these themes of renewal, love, strength, relaxation, and passion. In addition to their beautiful symbolism, they’re also vibrant, colorful blooms that make great gifts for any occasion and serve as a great addition to any garden.