Carnation
Pink and white · Love, fascination and distinction.
- Primary flower
- Carnation
- Secondary flower
- Snowdrop
- Colour
- Pink and white
- Meaning
- Love, fascination and distinction.
- Birthstone
- Garnet
The January birth flower: the Carnation
The carnation is January's birth flower, a ruffled bloom that flowers even in cold months and carries meanings of deep love and admiration. The snowdrop, its companion, pushes through late-winter frost as a quiet emblem of hope.
What the January birth flower means
In the Victorian language of flowers, the Carnation carried the meaning of love, fascination and distinction. That is why it makes such a fitting birthday gift or tattoo for anyone born in January: it says something without needing words. The secondary January flower, the Snowdrop, adds its own shade of meaning for those who want a second option.
Pairing the January flower with its birthstone
January's birthstone is Garnet, a deep red gem. A Carnation flower next to a Garnet stone is a natural birthday pairing, especially for jewellery, cards or tattoos that combine both. Anyone born this month also falls under Capricorn or Aquarius. See the full January overview for everything together.
Frequently asked questions
What is the January birth flower?
The January birth flower is the Carnation, with the Snowdrop as a secondary flower.
What does the January birth flower mean?
The Carnation traditionally means love, fascination and distinction.
What colour is the January birth flower?
The Carnation is typically pink and white.
Birth flowers for other months
Last updated 2 July 2026.