August flowers come with a backbone. The gladiolus, this month’s bloom, even takes its name from a weapon — which tells you something about the kind of person it suits.
The birth flower for August is the gladiolus
August’s birth flower is the gladiolus, with the poppy as its traditional alternative. The gladiolus is the showstopper: tall, architectural stems that open in a run of blooms from bottom to top.
What it means
The gladiolus stands for strength of character, integrity and remembrance — a flower for someone you genuinely admire. It’s a fitting gift for the steady, principled people in your life, the ones who hold their ground gracefully.
The name comes from the Latin gladius, “sword,” for its blade-like leaves; the Romans called it the sword lily and tied it to their gladiators. Two thousand years on, that sense of quiet strength still clings to it.
Why it makes a good gift (and one care tip)
Gladioli are dramatic and long-lasting, and there’s a trick to getting the most from them: pinch out the very top bud, and the lower florets open more evenly up the stem. For an August birthday in the last of the Australian winter, a bold, textural bouquet brings real presence to a room.
Shop the Broome Bouquet → A bold, textural native bouquet with plenty of character, from $127.
The part they’ll remember
A flower with a spine, for someone who has one. Head to the September birth flower, back to July, or see the full birth month flowers guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the birth flower for August?
The gladiolus, with the poppy as a traditional alternative. The gladiolus is the bolder, more sculptural cut flower.
What does the gladiolus symbolise?
Strength of character, integrity and remembrance — a flower for someone you admire.
Where does the name gladiolus come from?
From the Latin gladius, meaning “sword,” after its blade-like leaves. The Romans called it the sword lily.
How do I get a gladiolus to open well?
Pinch out the topmost bud so the lower florets open more evenly up the stem, and keep the water fresh.
