July Birth Flowers: Larkspur & Water Lily Meanings for a UK Birthday

High summer in July brings two strikingly different birth flowers. The month's primary bloom is the larkspur, whose tall spires of blue, pink and purple stand proud in British summer borders, while its companion is the serene water lily, floating gracefully on ponds and lakes. One reaches for the sky, the other rests on still water, and between them they capture openness of heart and calm beauty. Below we explore what each July birth flower means, where its symbolism comes from, and why they became linked to the month.

Which Flower Represents July?

July is represented by the larkspur as its main birth flower, with the water lily as a much-loved second. Both flourish in the British summer, larkspur towering in cottage-garden borders and water lilies opening across garden ponds and waterways.

The Larkspur: July's Flower of an Open Heart

With its elegant flowering spikes, the larkspur symbolises an open heart, positivity and strong bonds of love. Its lofty, cheerful presence in the summer garden has made it a favourite for expressing warmth and lightness of spirit.

Where the Larkspur Comes From

A member of the delphinium family, larkspur has long been grown in European gardens for its dramatic colour and height. Its name comes from the spurred shape of its blooms, thought to resemble a lark's claw.

The Water Lily: July's Emblem of Calm

The water lily, floating serenely on the surface of ponds and lakes, symbolises purity, peace and enlightenment. Its habit of opening with the morning light has long linked it to renewal and quiet contemplation.

Larkspur and Water Lily Folklore

Larkspur was traditionally believed to ward off misfortune and to protect against negativity, while the water lily, rising pure from murky water, became a widely shared emblem of clarity and spiritual calm across many cultures.

What Do July's Birth Flowers Symbolise?

Together the two blooms balance exuberance and serenity. The larkspur speaks to an open heart, positivity and devotion, while the water lily speaks to purity, peace and renewal. For a July birthday, the pairing suggests someone warm-hearted and calm, celebrated at the height of summer.

Larkspur Colour Meanings

Larkspur's meaning shifts beautifully with its colour:

• Blue larkspur represents grace and dignity.
• Pink larkspur suggests fickleness in a playful, affectionate sense.
• Purple larkspur conveys first love and sweetness.
• White larkspur stands for a joyful, light-hearted nature.

History and Cultural Significance

Larkspur has been a staple of the English summer border for generations, prized for its colour and height, while the water lily has inspired artists and gardeners alike, celebrated as a symbol of tranquillity on British waters.

Why Are These Flowers Tied to July?

The link is firmly seasonal. Larkspur reaches its full height in July's warmth, and water lilies bloom across ponds throughout the month, both embodying the abundance of high summer.

Celebrating a July Birthday

A thoughtful way to mark a July birthday is with personalised jewellery inspired by these blooms or set with the month's ruby birthstone, a keepsake that lasts far longer than any bouquet. You can also explore the full birth flowers by month guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the official birth flower for July?

The larkspur is July's primary birth flower, with the water lily recognised as a second.

Does July have two birth flowers?

Yes. The larkspur is the traditional main flower, while the water lily is a widely accepted alternative.

What does the July larkspur symbolise?

An open heart, positivity and strong bonds of love, with meaning varying by colour.

What does the water lily symbolise?

Purity, peace and renewal.

Why is the larkspur associated with July?

Because it blooms tall across British gardens in the warmth of high summer.

Are there other flowers linked to July?

The larkspur and water lily are the two most recognised for the month.