June 23

Birth Flower

Bamboo Lily
Japanese Lily Sasa Lily

Scientific Name: Lilium japonicum
Family: Liliaceae

Flower Language

  • Elegance
  • Purity
  • Chastity

Characteristics

Colors: Pale pink

Description

Bamboo Lily is a lily species endemic to Japan, found naturally in central Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. Named for its bamboo-like leaves, it blooms with pale pink or white flowers measuring 10-15cm in diameter during June-July. The flowers emit a strong fragrance. It takes several years from bulb to flowering and is considered challenging to cultivate. Due to habitat loss, it's listed as near threatened in some regions.

Trivia

  • Takes 7-8 years from bulb to first flowering
  • Fragrance is strongest from evening to night
  • Considered the most difficult Japanese lily to cultivate
  • Bulbs may rest for 3-4 years after flowering

Uses

Ornamental
  • Used in tea ceremony flower arrangements
  • Natural garden appreciation
  • Cut flowers (strong fragrance)
Medicinal
  • Bulbs traditionally used medicinally

Caution: Medicinal use not recommended currently

Culinary
  • Bulbs (traditionally edible)
Other
  • Symbol of wild plant conservation
  • Indicator species for ecosystem preservation

Toxicity

Symptoms: Non-toxic, but wild collection may be legally protected

Roman Chamomile
English Chamomile Garden Chamomile

Scientific Name: Chamaemelum nobile
Family: Asteraceae

Flower Language

  • Friendship and fellowship
  • Patience in adversity
  • Intimate friendship

Characteristics

Colors: White

Description

Roman Chamomile is an evergreen perennial herb that produces small white flowers. Not only the flowers but also the leaves and stems have a sweet apple-like fragrance. It grows by spreading horizontally and is tolerant of foot traffic, making it useful as 'aromatic lawn.' Similar to German Chamomile but as a perennial, its tea has a slightly bitter taste. Long used as a medicinal herb, it's called 'the plant doctor' and valued as a companion plant.

Trivia

  • Famous herb featured in Peter Rabbit stories
  • Releases stronger fragrance when stepped on
  • NASA research confirms air purifying properties
  • Used in ancient Egyptian mummification process

Uses

Ornamental
  • Aromatic lawn alternative
  • Garden border plantings
  • Rock garden plant
Medicinal
  • Herbal tea for digestive health
  • External use for skin inflammation
  • Aromatherapy for relaxation

Caution: Avoid during pregnancy. Caution for those with Asteraceae allergies

Culinary
  • Flowers (herbal tea)
  • Leaves (culinary flavoring)
Other
  • Essential oil source
  • Cosmetic ingredient
  • Natural insect repellent

Toxicity

Toxicity Level: Mild

Toxic Parts: Caution only with large quantities

Symptoms: Those with Asteraceae allergies may experience dermatitis or respiratory symptoms. Risk of uterine contractions during pregnancy