The lily of the valley flower is one of the most fragrant blooms you will find, but its value goes far beyond the tip of your nose!
In fact, this elegant bloom is frequently associated with traditional feminine values like chastity, motherhood, sweetness, and purity. These meanings aren’t anything new – in fact, this flower has quite the storied past.
Here’s what you need to know about the lily of the valley flower meaning and symbolism.
What Does Lily of the Valley Mean?
The scientific name for the lily of the valley is Convallaria majalis. This fragrant flower is used in religious celebrations and ornamental gardens all over the world.
The scientific name translates perfectly to “that which belongs to May,” which is just one reason why the flower is the recognized flower for the month of May.
This is not the only moniker by which this flower is known, however. Lily of the valley is often referred to as Jacob’s ladder, May bells, Mary’s tears, conval lily, and May lily, too. 
What Do Lily of the Valley Flowers Symbolize?
The lily of the valley is a flower that is most often viewed as a symbol of rebirth and humility. It can be used to symbolize chastity, purity, sweetness, and motherhood, too.
Lily of the valley flowers are thought to bring luck in love but can also symbolize a return of happiness. The flower is a favorite of royals, including Kate Middleton, Queen Victoria, and Grace Kelly.
What is the Cultural Significance of a Lily of the Valley Flower?
The lily of the valley flower is a bloom that is entrenched in deep cultural significance. In Germanic mythology, the flower was associated with the purity of the goddess Ostara, a virgin known for her humility.
In Victorian times, though, the flower signified a return to happiness. If you’re a Christian, you might recognize this flower as a symbol of Eve’s tears as she was banished from the Garden of Eden. Her tears were later transformed into the lily of the valley.
Other Chrisitan traditions maintain that the flower is a symbol of humility and of the second coming of Christ. It is mentioned more than a dozen times in the Bible.
Some people believe that the lilies of the valley can protect gardens from evil spirits. At one point in time, it was used as a charm to guard against the spells of witches.
No matter what you believe, it’s clear that this flower is prized among a multitude of cultures.
What is the Symbolism of a Lily of the Valley Tattoo?
Usually, lily of the valley tattoos are associated with traditional feminine values like chastity, purity, and sweetness. However, they can also be associated with motherhood and are often chosen by mothers to show the connection and bond they share with their children.
When Should You Give Someone a Lily of the Valley?
The lily of the valley is a flower that can be given for just about any occasion. While it’ is the perfect flower for religious ceremonies, it is also a popular choice for a wedding, birthday, and other kinds of celebrations, too. Some people give these flowers on Mother’s Day. It is appropriate in all cases!
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