The Aster flower is a perennial bloom belonging to the Asteraceae family, which also includes the daisy and sunflower. Its appearance is characterized by a central disk floret surrounded by numerous slender ray florets, giving it a distinct, star-like shape. The name “aster” is derived from the ancient Greek word astḗr, meaning “star,” confirming its celestial connection. This star-like form has woven the flower into a rich tapestry of historical narratives and cultural beliefs.
The Mythological Origin of the Aster
The foundational myth of the Aster is rooted in the celestial tragedy of the Greek goddess Astraea, the virgin goddess of justice and innocence. Astraea was one of the last immortals to leave Earth during humanity’s decline into war and chaos, eventually ascending to the heavens to become the constellation Virgo. Devastated by the world’s misery, Astraea began to weep. Her tears fell from the sky to the Earth, and where each tear drop landed, the star-shaped Aster flower sprang up from the soil. This narrative permanently links the flower to celestial bodies and the themes of purity, lost hope, and a connection between the earthly and divine realms. Ancient Greeks often used Asters to decorate altars as a tribute to the gods, signifying a sacred bond.
Core Symbolism and General Meanings
The enduring nature of the Aster flower, which thrives when many other blooms are fading, contributes significantly to its universal symbolism of patience and perseverance. These daisy-like perennials typically flourish in the late summer and early autumn, providing a final, brilliant display of color before the winter chill sets in. This late bloom suggests a quiet, steadfast endurance, representing a continued hope for positive outcomes.
The flower also stands as a powerful symbol of deep, abiding love and devotion, often representing a long-lasting and loyal affection. Its delicate, layered structure conveys a sense of elegance and refinement, associating the flower with grace and daintiness. Beyond love and patience, the Aster has been connected to wisdom and faith, particularly due to its mythological origins linking it to the heavens and the cosmic order.
Its historical use in wreaths and altars in ancient Greece also cemented its status as an emblem of enchantment and afterthought. The Aster’s ability to remain vibrant when other flowers have passed their peak makes it an appropriate symbol for remembrance and the deep consideration of past events.
Meanings by Color Variation
The Aster’s message is nuanced by its specific color, allowing for a diverse range of interpretations. Purple Asters, which are among the most popular varieties, traditionally symbolize royalty, wisdom, and dignity. This meaning stems from the historical association of the color purple with nobility and high status, making the flower an ideal choice to convey admiration and respect.
White Asters carry a message of purity, innocence, and new beginnings. These blooms are often incorporated into arrangements for baptisms, weddings, or other ceremonies marking a clean slate. The vibrant hues of Red and Pink Asters represent devotion, passion, and affectionate love. Red signifies undying devotion, while pink often expresses a softer, more sensitive love and admiration.
Blue Asters, though often a more purple-blue shade, are strongly linked to the concepts of faith, trust, and serenity. Gifting a blue Aster conveys a message of loyalty and a deep, calm confidence in a relationship or outcome.
Cultural and Contextual Significance
The Aster is the designated birth flower for the month of September, aligning perfectly with its late-season bloom. This designation associates the flower with the characteristics of faith, love, and wisdom for those born during that month. The flower also serves a unique ceremonial function, as it is one of the two traditional flowers used to celebrate a 20th wedding anniversary.
During the Victorian era, the Aster was an important component of floriography, the popular language of flowers used for coded communication. In this context, the bloom symbolized patience, charm, and daintiness, allowing individuals to send discreet messages of enduring affection.
Ancient Greeks would burn the leaves of the plant, believing the smoke would ward off evil spirits and snakes. This practice highlights the flower’s ancient association with protection and spiritual clarity.