This is February’s Birth Flower – And How to Grow It From Seed

February may feel like the quietest month in the garden, but it’s actually the perfect time to start thinking about the first blooms of the year. What better place to start, then, than by planting the official birth flower for this deeply romantic month?

Yes, if you or someone you know is a February baby, you'll probably be pleased to know that it comes with no less than two birth flowers of its very own (more, if you count the birth month houseplants on offer).

Both of these classic blooms are small yet striking plants, celebrated for their charm and symbolism. And both, too, are counted among the easiest flowers to grow – no matter which USDA Planting Zone you’re in.

Intrigued? Of course you are! Let’s dive in, then, to the meaning and magic of violets and primroses, aka the two most famous February birth flowers around…

Your February Birth Flowers

When it comes to February's birth month flowers, there's a lot of symbolism to soak in. Violets, for starters, are known for everlasting love, modesty, and faithfulness, while primroses represent youth, renewal, and early spring cheer.

Whether you’re planting for yourself or giving a thoughtful birthday gift, then, these flowers carry a subtle, uplifting energy that’s absolutely perfect for the shortest month of the year... so long as you plant them properly.

And, as luck would have it, February is an ideal time to start seeds indoors, as the cold outside keeps them dormant while giving you a head start for spring color. With that in mind, then, grab yourself a pack of violet seeds or primrose seeds from Amazon, and keep on scrolling...

Starting Violets and Primroses from Seed

Growing your February birth flowers from seed may feel daunting, but it’s simpler than you might think. All you really need to do is fill small seed trays with light, well-draining seed compost, scatter your violet or primrose seeds lightly on the surface and press gently. Both need light to germinate, so don’t you dare cover them with soil.

Next, mist lightly to keep the compost moist but not soggy, and place trays in a bright spot, avoiding direct midday sun (a temperature of 65–70°F encourages germination).

Finally, once seedlings have two or three true leaves, you can pot them individually to encourage strong roots before planting outdoors in spring. Just don't forget to harden them off before you take them outdoors.

Seed Starting Essentials:

While violets and primroses are the traditional birth flowers of February, irises are sometimes included as a secondary February bloom in certain traditions for those who want even more variety.

Known for their striking, sword-shaped foliage and elegant blooms, irises symbolize wisdom, hope, and cherished friendship, adding another layer of meaning for February birthdays.

They’re also surprisingly easy to grow: you can plant them from bulbs in the garden, where they naturalize and return year after year, or pick up live potted irises from nurseries for instant colour. Like violets and primroses, irises offer gardeners a way to celebrate the season and enjoy a first splash of bloom before spring fully arrives.

There are many iris varieties available, but we're particularly fond of the Bearded Iris Pastel Collection at Dutch Grown (happily available as bare root plants, to make life even easier).

Honestly, though, whichever February birth flower you choose is an easy way to add charm and color to your garden while embracing tradition. Their delicate blooms, rich symbolism, and early presence in the garden make them perfect for celebrating birthdays, seasonal change, or even just that natural gardener’s love of early blooms.

Because, even in the coldest month, planting these flowers is a way to nurture growth, celebrate life, and enjoy a first glimpse of spring in your own backyard.