August 11

Birth Flower

Gladiolus
Sword Lily Corn Flag

Scientific Name: Gladiolus × hybridus
Family: Iridaceae

Flower Language

  • constant effort
  • victory
  • remembrance
  • firmness
  • devoted love

Characteristics

Colors:

Description

Named from Latin meaning 'little sword', referring to its sword-like leaves. When generally referring to Gladiolus, it usually means summer-blooming varieties, distinguished from spring-blooming ones. Produces large flowers arranged vertically along straight, upright flower stems. Available in diverse colors including red, pink, purple, white, yellow, orange, blue, and green.

Trivia

  • Given to gladiators as victory symbol in ancient Rome
  • Historical use as secret meeting signals
  • Introduced to Japan in Meiji period
  • One of the world's most popular cut flowers

Uses

Ornamental
  • One of the most popular cut flowers
  • Background plants in flower beds and gardens
  • Centerpiece in flower arrangements
Medicinal
  • Some species used in African traditional medicine

Caution: Garden varieties not recommended for medicinal use

Culinary

Not suitable for consumption

Other
  • Bulb propagation and sales
  • Breeding and variety improvement material
  • Horticultural contest displays

Toxicity

Toxicity Level: Mild

Toxic Parts: Bulbs

Symptoms: Bulb consumption may cause mild gastrointestinal upset

Rosy Lily
Princess Lily Maiden Lily

Scientific Name: Lilium rubellum
Family: Liliaceae

Flower Language

  • budding curiosity
  • unadorned beauty
  • purity

Characteristics

Colors: pale pink

Description

A lily endemic to Japan, originally found only in mountainous areas near the borders of Niigata, Fukushima, and Yamagata prefectures. Wild populations are endangered. Wild flowers are pink without spots on petals. Flowers are 5-6cm in diameter and about 8cm long, producing beautiful pale pink blooms. While not as strong as Mountain Lily, the fragrance is sweet and very rich.

Trivia

  • Listed as Near Threatened on Ministry of Environment Red List
  • Beautiful Japanese endemic gaining attention from European gardeners
  • Similar to Sasayuri but distinguished by yellow anthers
  • Grows naturally at 800-1500m elevation in mountains

Uses

Ornamental
  • Precious plant for wildflower gardens
  • Rock garden cultivation
  • Rare plant collections
Medicinal
  • Previously used in folk medicine, but collection now prohibited for protection

Caution: Collection of wild specimens legally prohibited due to endangered status

Culinary

Culinary use prohibited due to protected status

Other
  • Conservation and research cultivation
  • Educational and awareness displays
  • Genetic resource preservation

Toxicity

Toxicity Level: Mild

Toxic Parts: Bulbs

Symptoms: May cause mild gastrointestinal upset as a member of Liliaceae

White Rose
Snow Rose White Serissa

Scientific Name: Serissa japonica
Family: Rubiaceae

Flower Language

  • pure love
  • loveliness
  • happiness

Characteristics

Colors: white

Description

An evergreen shrub native to East Asia. Produces countless small white flowers about 1cm in diameter from early summer to autumn. Leaves are small and dense, and it tolerates pruning well, making it popular for hedges and garden borders. Also popular for bonsai, allowing enjoyment of beautiful tree forms even in small pots. Flowers have a light fragrance, giving gardens a refreshing impression.

Trivia

  • Name 'White Rose' comes from densely clustered small white flowers
  • Popular bonsai species alongside snow willow
  • Evergreen nature maintains garden color year-round
  • Tolerates pruning well, manageable for beginners

Uses

Ornamental
  • Hedges and garden border plants
  • Bonsai for indoor decoration
  • Rock garden accents
Medicinal
  • Used for some conditions in traditional Chinese medicine

Caution: Avoid self-medication without proper guidance

Culinary

Not suitable for consumption

Other
  • Bonsai material
  • Landscaping and landscape design
  • Small garden space enhancement

Toxicity

Symptoms: No toxicity reported, but avoid consumption as it's ornamental

Geranium
Pelargonium Storksbill

Scientific Name: Pelargonium × zonale
Family: Geraniaceae

Flower Language

  • determination
  • happiness with you
  • good upbringing
  • true friendship

Characteristics

Colors: pink, red

Description

A perennial from South Africa, one of the world's most beloved garden plants. Characterized by round leaves and vibrant flower colors, blooms can be enjoyed for long periods from spring to autumn. Rich flower colors include red, pink, white, and purple, with leaves having a distinctive fragrance. Popular with beginners due to drought tolerance and easy care.

Trivia

  • Introduced to Europe in 17th century, quickly became popular
  • Leaf fragrance believed to have mosquito-repelling effects
  • Standard flower for European windowsills
  • Extensive breeding has created hundreds of varieties

Uses

Ornamental
  • Flower beds and potted plant display
  • Window and balcony decoration
  • Hanging baskets
Medicinal
  • Some species used in aromatherapy
  • Used for minor ailments in traditional medicine

Caution: Garden varieties not recommended for medicinal use

Culinary
  • Flowers
  • Leaves (some species)
Other
  • Insect-repelling plant
  • Aromatherapy oil source
  • Natural air freshener

Toxicity

Toxicity Level: Mild

Toxic Parts: Leaves, Stems

Symptoms: Large consumption may cause mild gastrointestinal upset