July’s birth flower is the tall, spirited larkspur, with the serene water lily as its secondary bloom. Larkspur’s soaring summer spires symbolize positivity, an open heart, and strong bonds of love.
July’s birth flowers at a glance
- Primary flower: Larkspur (Delphinium)
- Secondary flower: Water Lily
- Core meanings: positivity, an open heart, and strong bonds of love
- Best for: birthday bouquets, meaningful tattoos, and seasonal gifts
The larkspur: July’s primary birth flower
Larkspur sends up dramatic spires of densely packed blooms in summer, in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white. It symbolizes an open heart, positivity, and ardent attachment, and its lightness and height give it an airy, joyful quality that suits high summer.
A member of the delphinium family, larkspur takes the name Delphinium from the Greek delphis (dolphin), which the flower’s buds were thought to resemble. The common name refers to the spur on each bloom, said to look like a lark’s claw.
What larkspur colors mean
Color shapes the message as much as the flower itself:
- Purple larkspur — first love and sweetness
- Pink larkspur — fickleness and contrariness
- White larkspur — a happy, joyful nature
- Blue larkspur — dignity and grace
The water lily: July’s secondary birth flower
The water lily (Nymphaea) floats serenely on ponds and still water, opening its petals to the sun. Across many cultures it symbolizes purity, enlightenment, and rebirth, making it a tranquil, spiritual counterpart to the larkspur’s lively energy.
July birth flower tattoo ideas
Larkspur’s tall, graceful spires make striking vertical tattoos, ideal for the forearm, spine, or calf.
- A single larkspur spire running along the forearm
- Fine-line larkspur in a meaningful color
- Larkspur paired with the July birthstone (ruby) in red accents
- A floating water lily for a calm, minimalist piece
- A family birth-flower arrangement featuring July’s larkspur
Gift ideas for someone born in July
Larkspur adds height and color to summer bouquets, and its cheerful symbolism makes it a lovely July birthday gift.
- A summer bouquet built around tall larkspur spires
- Larkspur seeds for the gardener in your life
- Ruby-and-floral jewelry tying in the July birthstone
- A water-lily-themed art print for a serene keepsake
- Dried larkspur, which holds its color beautifully
Caring for July’s flowers
Larkspur prefers full sun and cool, moist, well-drained soil; sow seeds in early spring or autumn and stake the tall stems against wind. Note that larkspur is toxic if ingested. Water lilies grow in still water in full sun, planted in submerged containers in a pond or water garden.
July birth flower FAQs
What is the birth flower for July?
July has two birth flowers: larkspur, its primary flower, and the water lily. Larkspur symbolizes positivity and an open heart, while the water lily represents purity and enlightenment.
What does July larkspur symbolize?
Larkspur symbolizes an open heart, positivity, and strong bonds of love. Its meaning varies by color, with purple signaling first love and white a happy, joyful nature.
Why is larkspur July’s birth flower?
Larkspur blooms in the heat of summer, right around July, and its bright, uplifting spires made it a fitting emblem for the month.
Is larkspur poisonous?
Yes. Larkspur is toxic if ingested, so it should be handled with care and kept away from children and pets, despite its beauty in the garden and in bouquets.
What do July birth flower tattoos mean?
A July birth flower tattoo features larkspur or a water lily and represents positivity, love, and serenity, often chosen to mark a July birthday.
Explore other months
See the full birth flowers by month guide, or visit June and August.