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Birth Flower Tattoos: Every Month and What It Means
Birth flower tattoos are one of the most popular ways to carry someone with you. They're personal, pretty, and nobody needs to know the meaning unless you tell them. Here's every month's flower, what it traditionally means, and ideas for combining them.
Birth flowers by month
| Month | Flower | Traditional meaning | Tattoo tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Carnation (also snowdrop) | Love, admiration, hope | Ruffled petals look great in black and grey. |
| February | Violet (also primrose) | Loyalty, modesty | Small, so ideal for tiny tattoos. |
| March | Daffodil | New beginnings | Works well in yellow or fine line. |
| April | Daisy (also sweet pea) | Innocence, purity | One of the simplest and most popular. |
| May | Lily of the valley (also hawthorn) | Happiness returning, sweetness | Delicate bells along a curved stem. |
| June | Rose (also honeysuckle) | Love, passion | From tiny fine line to bold traditional. |
| July | Larkspur (also water lily) | Joy, an open heart | Tall stems suit the forearm or spine. |
| August | Gladiolus (also poppy) | Strength, remembrance | The poppy is a moving memorial choice. |
| September | Aster (also morning glory) | Patience, love | Star-shaped and easy to recognise. |
| October | Marigold (also cosmos) | Warmth, remembrance | Lovely in orange colour work. |
| November | Chrysanthemum | Friendship, joy | A big part of Japanese tattooing. |
| December | Holly (also narcissus/paperwhite) | Protection, hope | Red berries add a small pop of colour. |
Lists vary slightly between sources, which is why many months have two flowers. Pick the one you like better.
Birth flower tattoo ideas
1. Family bouquet
Everyone's birth flower in one bunch. It's easy to add to as the family grows.
2. One flower per child
Three stems in a row, or wrapped around a wrist.
3. Flower with a name in the stem
The stem is written as the name. See our name tattoo guide.
4. Mum and daughter swap
Each of you wears the other's flower. More on our tattoos for mum page.
5. Partner's flower
A softer couple tattoo than a name. See couple tattoos.
6. Memorial flower with dates
Their flower, with dates along the stem. More on our memorial tattoos page.
7. Birth flower and birthstone
A tiny coloured gem tucked among the petals.
8. Pressed-flower style
Flat, botanical-illustration style, like a page from an old book.
Style choices
- Fine line: delicate and pretty, but it softens over time. Go slightly bigger than you think. See our fine line guide.
- Black and grey: soft shading, ages very well, suits roses and carnations.
- Colour: brings out daffodils, marigolds and poppies. Keep it out of the sun to stop it fading.
- Traditional: bold, simple shapes that stay readable for decades.