Lily of the Valley Day (Suzuran no Hi)

What Is Lily of the Valley Day?

May 1 is known as "Lily of the Valley Day." A custom cherished mainly in France, it is known as a day to give lily of the valley flowers to loved ones and to people who have helped you. The custom has also been introduced in Japan, where it is recognized as a day to appreciate this seasonal flower.

The Origin of Lily of the Valley Day

The custom is said to date back to 16th-century France. According to tradition, on May 1, 1561, King Charles IX of France gave sprigs of lily of the valley to the women of his court as a token of good luck, marking the beginning of this custom.

From then on, it was believed that lily of the valley given on May 1 would bring happiness to the recipient, and the custom spread throughout France.

Characteristics of the Lily of the Valley

The lily of the valley is a perennial plant that produces small white flowers from spring into early summer.

• Bell-shaped flowers bloom in clusters along the stem
• It has a sweet, refreshing fragrance
• In Japanese it also goes by poetic names such as "kimikage-so"

Despite its charming appearance, the entire plant is toxic. Take care that children and pets don't drink the water from a vase of lily of the valley.

Lily of the Valley in French Culture

In France, May 1 is also Labor Day, and it's common to see lily of the valley sold on street corners around the country.

• It is customary to give lily of the valley to family, friends, and teachers
• The flower is regarded as a bringer of happiness
• By custom, even unlicensed individuals are allowed to sell lily of the valley on this day only

The overlap of Labor Day and a flower-giving tradition on the same date is a distinctive feature of May 1 in France.

Fun Facts About Lily of the Valley Day

• Giving lily of the valley on May 1 is a custom centered in France
• The flower's meanings include "return of happiness" and "purity"
• In Japan, it grows wild from central Honshu northward and is known as a symbol of Hokkaido
• In Japan, it is mainly known as a way to learn about a foreign culture

Tips for Spending Lily of the Valley Day

• Look up the meaning and botanical characteristics of the lily of the valley
• Learn about French events and traditions associated with May 1
• Open a guide to spring flowers and explore the season's blooms
• Check the care and growing conditions for this ornamental plant
• Compare how the custom of gift-giving with flowers differs from region to region

A Day Connecting the Seasons and Culture Through Flowers

"Lily of the Valley Day" on May 1 is an opportunity to discover the culture and history wrapped up in a single flower. This custom is deeply rooted in everyday French life, and in Japan it is often introduced as a window into culture from abroad. As the seasons change, it offers a lovely moment to reflect on the relationship between people and plants.