Between black cats, bats, pumpkins, and full moons, it can be hard to narrow in on one specific symbol of the spooky season. And that's not to mention October's birth flowers: marigolds and cosmos! That's right: in addition to the two birthstones (opal and tourmaline) associated with the eeriest month of fall, there are two October birth flowers with their own distinct meanings in relation to autumn.
Birth month flowers, like birthstones, are rooted in ancient traditions. In Roman times, different flowers were linked to certain festivals and seasons. Fast forward a few thousand years to the the 20th century, and the modern concept of birth flowers as you know them today was born.
So, what exactly are October's birth flowers? Whether you're looking for the perfect Halloween floral arrangement or simply want to add a new fall flower to your garden, read on to find out everything you need to know about October's birth flowers, including what they are, when they bloom, and what they symbolize.
What are October's birth flowers?
With not just one, but two birth flowers, October is proof that you can never have too many beautiful blooms. October's birth flowers are the marigold and the cosmos, both of which bloom from summer until the first frost hits in late fall.
With their bright orange hue, marigolds make a festive addition to any fall-themed floral arrangement. On the other hand, colorful cosmos come in shades of pink and purple with a yellow center, so they're great for adding a pretty, soft touch to any garden bed or bouquet.
What do marigolds symbolize?
If you're looking for a fun flower that matches the plump pumpkins on your front porch, bright orange marigolds are just the thing! This telltale sign of fall holds symbolism across many cultures and countries, including Mexico, where they're associated with the Day of the Dead. Marigolds exude a somewhat musty smell, which, according to old Aztec legend, is believed to guide souls from their burial sites to their family homes. In the same vein, their bright yellow and orange hues act as a beacon for lost spirits.
The cheery flower also holds symbolism across the globe in India, where it represents the sun's energy and the divine couple Lakshmi and Vishnu. In Hinduism, the flower represents good luck and purity and is used in numerous festivals, including Diwali and traditional wedding ceremonies.
What do cosmos symbolize?
The hidden meaning behind cosmos flowers is actually not so hidden if you take a look at the Greek word it stems from. Kosmos means order and harmony in the universe, which is similar to the symbolism of balance, harmony, peace, and love the flower holds today. Like the many colors it comes in (pink, yellow, red, purple, and white), cosmos have many meanings, such as peace, joy, love, and even innocence.
So, if you want to add some love to a bouquet, throw a bundle of red cosmos in. At the same time, you could add white cosmos as a symbol of faithfulness and devotion. Implement a few marigolds into your bouquet, and you have the ultimate arrangement for an October birthday. (Hey, that sounds like the perfect gift for Ree Drummond's bonus son Jamar whose birthday falls during the autumn month!)
Nitya Rao is the editorial assistant at The Pioneer Woman, covering stories ranging from food, fashion, beauty, lifestyle, news, and more.
