Each month of the year features a different official flower, and violets are February’s official bloom. The primrose is also occasionally featured as a February flower, as well as classic roses for Valentine’s Day. You’ll commonly see violets at your local florist in beautiful baskets, as well as in lush displays of wildflowers and spring blooms.

The History of Violets

In addition to their status as the February birth flower, as well as the official state flower of Rhode Island, Wisconsin, and a handful of other states, violets also carry a storied and fascinating history.

Legend says that St. Valentine used ink made from violets to write his famous love notes. The ancient Greeks were said to use them in love potions as it was a symbol of love and fertility. A Greek philosopher recommended wearing them on the head to stop headaches, and the Romans used them for wine.

Special Meanings for Violets

Since ancient times, the flower has grown to mean things like faithfulness, humility, and modesty. The flower was once nicknamed the “Flower of Modesty.” Modern interpretations of the flower’s meaning have also included happiness.

Different colors of violets also offer special meanings with blue symbolizing faithfulness and dependability and white  standing for humility and reserve. Violets are a deeply meaningful way to honor a relationship during the romantic month of February.

Traditions of the Violet Flower

Violets Basket

Violets are a diverse and varied flower with around 500 species existing around the world. Different from the fuzzy-leaved African violet, which are also a popular gift in the late winter and spring, the violets you’ll encounter will usually feature white, pink, or purple petals.

Delicate and velvety, the blossoms of your violets will remain vibrant throughout much of the spring and summer, and the plants can even survive a winter if you bring a potted variety or a basket inside and place it near a bright window.

Did You Know? Violets are edible in small quantities as part of herbal remedies.

Do you have a dear friend, relative, or significant other with a birthday in February? Surprise her with a beautiful and meaningful gift of violets from Griffin’s, or a bright basket that can help chase away the winter and hasten the arrival of spring.