Birth Month Flower of July - The Larkspur

Close relative to Delphiniums, Larkspurs are the birth month flower for July. A true blue flower that symbolizes lightness and swiftness, This flower has significance in Greek mythology as it grew from the blood of Ajax as he threw himself on his sword during the Battle of Troy. Larkspurs grow wild and tall in pastures. Unfortunate for cattle owners, this flower is extremely poisonous and dangerous when ingested by cattle. Its poison makes this flower useful as an insecticide. In fact, in ancient times, it was worn as an ointment to drive away scorpions. Native Americans used Larkspurs to make a rich, blue dye. European settlers used it to dip their quills in as blue ink. As soon as the snow melts, these pretty Larkspurs make their appearance; however, they do not flourish until July.