The Iris gets its name from the Ancient Greek Goddess Isis, the messenger of the gods and the personification of the rainbow, who acted as the link between heaven and earth. During ancient Greek times, Purple irises were planted over women’s graves to summon the Goddess to guide the dead in their journey to the afterlife. Ancient Egyptian kings marvelled at the Iris flower’s exoticness, and drawings of the flower have been found in many Egyptian palaces. In the Middle Ages, the iris flower was synonymous with the French monarchy, and the Fleur-de-lis eventually became France’s national symbol. Today Irises are cultivated worldwide and found naturally in Europe, the Middle East, northern Africa, Asia, and North America.

From their earliest years, Irises were used for perfumes and medicinal purposes. Throughout history, the meanings of the Iris have included faith, hope, and wisdom. Irises may carry additional meanings depending on the region and colour. The purple or dark blue Iris can denote royalty in parts of the world. The yellow Iris, however, is usually a symbol of passion. The Irises flower also expresses admiration and courage. The Iris’s many meanings make it a great choice.

Iris are thirsty flowers that require clean, fresh water. Frequently check the vase water and, when necessary, top the vase up with fresh water to the three-quarter mark. If the water looks cloudy, gently remove the stems and rinse them until clean. Rinse out the vase and replace the water with fresh, clean water. Recutting the stems under water will also help the Iris flowers to take up the water.

The secondary birth flower for February is the Violet, which belongs to a group of smaller flowers referred to as the genus Viola. Violets are well-known for their delicate beauty and sweet scent. The tiny blooms comprise five petals, ranging from deep purple to white.

The ancient Greeks believed the Violet symbolised love and fertility and used their petals to make love potions. The Roman naturalist Pliny spoke of violets’ medicinal properties, which reportedly cooled inflammations and reduced stomach pains. When mixed with water, violets reportedly reduced inflammation of infected tonsils. He also believed violets could relieve the symptoms of a headache or even a hangover. Christian traditions associate the Violet with purity and humility, earning its common name as Our Lady’s Modesty.

Initially, the flowers of Violet were known ever since the ancient Greek time or around 500 B.C. Greeks and Romans believed this flower was helpful as a herbal remedy for different illnesses and sicknesses. The flowers were also used to create wine and to sweeten their dishes for the festivals. Cultivation of this flower started around that time, as well.

The flowers are native to Northern Hemisphere and parts of Australia, the Andes, Hawaii, and South America. The flowers are primarily found in shaded grounds and hedgerows, specifically in areas where deciduous trees provide shade and protect the plants. These flowers were more than ornamental and flowering plants in ancient times. The blooms were used for a wide range of purposes, too.

In 1814, Napoleon Bonaparte covered his wife Josephine’s grave with violet flowers. He also declared Violets as his signature flower. Because of this, he was called Corporal Violet.

The Iris and the Violet are stunning flowers perfect for those born in February. They represent faith, hope, wisdom, loyalty, and courage, making them beautiful symbols for the month of love.