December Birth Flower: Narcissus

The narcissus is the December birth flower and symbolizes good wishes, faithfulness and respect. The narcissus can often be confused with the daffodil, the birth flower for March, which is a type of narcissus. Although most narcissus flowers are spring flowers, there are several species that bloom in the winter, such as the paperwhite narcissus — making it appropriate as the birth flower for December.

The December birthday flower has a rich history. As a native of the Mediterranean, the narcissus was brought over to Asia where it became widely cultivated in China. From there, the narcissus made its way into Europe via European colonists and eventually made its way into North America. Today, the narcissus is mainly cultivated in Great Britain, Holland, and The Channel Isles.

Narcissus Meanings and Symbolism

The narcissus flower’s name is derived from Greek mythology. Narcissus was a young hunter who was famed for his attractiveness. He was so attractive that he, himself, was obsessed by his good looks. One day, when looking at his own reflection in a pond, he leaned in to take a closer look only to fall in and drown. Therefore, the narcissus is known for being a symbol of vanity in Western culture.

However, in other cultures and organizations around the world, the narcissus carries on different meanings:

According to the Victorian “Language of Flowers” giving someone a narcissus means that they are “the only one.”
In Kurdish culture, the narcissus is a symbol of the new year.
Similarly, in Chinese culture, the narcissus symbolizes the Chinese New Year because it is one of the first flowers to bloom in the spring. It is also a symbol of wealth and good fortune for the coming year.
As a symbol of hope, the narcissus has become an emblem for cancer societies around the world.

December Birthstone

Turquoise and zircon are the birthstones of December.

Turquoise is a gemstone that is popular for its color. A symbol of good fortune and success, it is one of the earliest stones used in jewelry — even as early as 5500 BC. Upon excavation, mummified pharaohs have been found adorned with turquoise bracelets, and turquoise beads were found in ancient Mesopotamian ruins. The turquoise is also the national stone of Iran. In Native American culture, the turquoise is called “Chal-cui-hui-tal” which means “the highest and most valued thing in the world,” and is a large part of southwest American culture. Turquoise has a striking blue-green color that is derived from the combination of copper and iron that’s present within the stone.

Zircon is the secondary birthstone for the month of December. It is a mineral that is typically found as deposits in granite and metamorphic rock, and gemstone quality zircon are rare to come by. Zircon colors can range from red to brown and from orange to yellow. In the 1920s, a blue zircon gemstone was created by heating brown and yellow zircons. The most prized color of zircon is the red gemstone.

December Zodiac Horoscope

According to the zodiac horoscope, both Sagittarius and Capricorn are born in December.

Sagittarians are characterized as optimistic and upbeat. They are always the first to see the positivity in all things and are known for their loyalty. They are also known for their cheerful personalities, as well as for their humor and wit and soliciting joy and laughter from people around them. Favorite hobbies include being outdoors, sightseeing and going on road trips. Sagittarians born in December are born between December 1st to December 22nd.

Capricorns are also characterized as highly pragmatic. They are known as being ambitious and will strive for perfection. Although they can sometimes be blunt when it comes to expressing their opinions, Capricorns have an easy temperament and are excellent at maintaining their composure. Similarly, they are great listeners and are dependable friends. Capricorns born in December are born between December 23rd to December 31st.

Famous Birthdays In December

Louis Pasteur, French physician and the “Father of Microbiology, December 27, 1822
Georges Seurat, French post-Impressionist painter, December 2, 1859
Woody Allen, Oscar-winning director, December 1, 1935
Jane Fonda, American actress, December 21, 1937
Gianni Versace, fashion designer, December 2, 1946

Do you have a December birthday, or know someone that does? From beautiful bouquets to gourmet birthday treats, check out our selection of truly thoughtful birthday gift ideas!

Learn more about birth flowers by month.

Sources: