September Birth Month Symbols And Fun Facts
Welcome September! This month is all about change and the shift from the energetic days of summer to reflective days of autumn (for those in the Northern Hemisphere). The cooler days, changing color of leaves, and the back-to-school buzz, sparks vision, communication, and attention to detail. Farmers’ Almanac invites you to discover alluring September birth month symbols: flowers, stones, zodiac signs, herbs, bird of the month and more! We hope these, along with our September fun facts and gardening suggestions will inspire you. Share your thoughts (and photos) in the comments, and let’s revel in this prosperous month together!
September Birth Month Symbols
September birth month symbols bring rejuvenation and diligence. The September birth flower, aster, represents purity, while the September birthstone, sapphire, is the gem of connections, aiding communication and prophecy. Virgo and Libra serve as the month’s zodiac guardians, carrying patience and diplomacy to those born during this month. The hawk, September’s bird of the month, soars high in the sky with strength and perseverance. Dill and this month’s healing herbs are associated with vitality and protection, adding even more meaning for those born in this month.
September Birth Month Flower: Aster
September’s birth flower, aster, is a late-season garden starlet. A member of the Asteraceae family (along with Sunflowers, daisies, cosmos, and zinnias), asters are a cold-hardy, deer-resistant perennial that grow one to six feet tall and one to four feet wide. The aster flower has a yellow center and petals that branch out like rays. Their spritely and colorful blooms brighten up gardens in late summer to early fall in a generous display of hues, ranging from white, to purple and blue and are suitable for borders, rock and wildflower gardens. Originally native to Europe and Asia, thanks to their hardy adaptability, they can now be found throughout the world.
Aster is associated with empathy and understanding. In India, China, and areas of Persia, these flowers are often carried for weddings because they represent purity and love. Chinese culture associate asters with fidelity, devotion, and wisdom, traits ideal for the foundation of a marriage.
RELATED: Farmers’ Almanac Best Days to Get Married
Have any asters in your garden? Share your photos in the comments!
Aster flowers have a long and rich history, dating back to Ancient Greece. They are named for their star-shape blooms, coming from the Greek word “asteri” meaning “star.” According to Ancient Greek myth, the aster flower was created by the goddess Astraea, also known as the Star Goddess.
Learn more about September Birth Flower Aster
Related
September Fun Facts:
- Asters don’t play by the rules when it comes to blooming. These herbaceous flowers bloom in response to the shorter, cooler days of fall, when other blooms are dying off, making them the pollinator heroes of late summer.
- In Christian symbolism, asters are associated with the Feast of St. Michael and Michaelmas, also known as All Angels, which is celebrated each year on September 29. As these flowers are one of the last blooms to peak at this time, asters are also known as “Michaelmas daisies.”
September Birthstone: Sapphire
Known for its striking blue color and durability, the name sapphire is derived from the ancient Greek word sappheriros, meaning ‘precious blue gem.’ Blue sapphires are considered a highly spiritual stone and have decorated clergy members and royalty for centuries. In the Middle Ages, this gem was thought to symbolize heaven, attracting heavenly blessings.
Known as the “gem of connections,” the sapphire is believed to aid communication and prophecy.
Related product: September Birthstone – Lapis Necklace
September Fun Facts:
- Not all sapphires are blue. Sapphires are a corundum gem, occurring in a rainbow of colors, created by elements such as iron, titanium, and chromium. Other than red corundum, which is considered a ruby, all other corundum gems are considered sapphires.
- Natural sapphires take millions of years to form deep in the Earth. However, they can also be grown in a lab using the same chemical properties, often having more consistent color and fewer flaws than natural ones.
- September’s birthstone is among the few gemstones that can exhibit a natural formed asterism, displaying a reflection of a six-rayed star on its surface. Not all sapphires display an asterism and star sapphires, also known as “Stones of Destiny,” are especially revered, making this celestial blue gem even more desirable.
September Colors: Rusty Orange, Red, and Deep Blue
September is associated with earthy autumn colors: rusty orange, red, as well as deep blue. The fiery orange and red hues evoke a sense of warmth and comfort as summer fades. They remind us of backyard bonfires, fall harvest, and the changing color of the leaves. Red is also reminiscent of ripe apples. Deep blue, a nod to September’s birthstone, the sapphire, adds a cool tone into a month of great change that suggesting colder days ahead.
September Fun Facts:
- The color red is significant in many cultures. In the Western culture it is associated with love, and in Eastern cultures it symbolizes good fortune and joy. It is a prominent color in Asian weddings to bring love, fertility and good luck.
- The word orange derives from the Sanskrit naranga, referring to the aromatic citrus that was grown in India and Southeast Asia. It was later adopted into the Persian and Arabic word naranj to refer to the fruit and the color.
Full Harvest Moon (Or Full Corn Moon)
September’s full Moon is known as “The Harvest Moon” or “The Full Corn Moon, depending upon its proximity to the autumnal equinox. The Harvest Moon refers to the full Moon that graces our skies closest to the first day of fall in the Northern Hemisphere. Its moniker dates back to when farmers depended on the Moon’s light to harvest their crops late into the evening. Unlike other months, the full harvest Moon is not linked with a specific month. Rather, the harvest Moon pertains to the timing of the lunar cycle and the Gregorian calendar, placing the harvest Moon in either September or October.
When October’s full Moon occurs closer to the fall equinox, then September’s full Moon is coined “The Full Corn Moon.” Native American tribes referred to September’s full as “The Full Corn Moon” or “Green Corn Moon” which corresponds to harvesting their corn at this time of year in the Northern Hemisphere.
Learn more about the September full Moon
Related
September Fun Facts:
- The Full Harvest Moon is unique because it rises close to the same time each evening for several days in a row.
- Many fall or harvest festivals are held around the Full Harvest Moon every year, to show appreciation for a good yield. There are also games and songs, such as “Harvest Moon” by Neil Young, named after this iconic full Moon.
September Zodiac Signs: Virgo And Libra
Two zodiac signs associated with the September birth month are Virgo and Libra.
Virgo (August 23-September 22)
Smart, organized and kind, practical is the middle name for Virgos. Symbolized by the virgin, the sixth sign of the zodiac are often skilled at looking at the big picture and having a plan. Staying organized and maintaining control over their future helps them to feel a sense of control and security. Virgos prefer reason over emotion and their attention to details can make them come across as picky and critical. This Earth sign is known to be patient, however Virgos expect excellence for themselves and often set the same high expectations for those around them as well. Don’t let a Virgo down, even minor incidents, such as last-minute cancelations can distress them. This kind-hearted zodiac also avoids disappointing others, often resulting in people-pleasing and spreading themselves too thin. This enthusiastic, industrious sign was born with a sense of duty and will get the job done with no qualms. You want a Virgo on your team.
It takes some time to earn a Virgos trust and they may come across as shy when you first meet them. Once they are comfortable with you and decide to open up, you will have a loyal friend for life. As intellectual, lifelong learners, Virgos are always on the hunt for knowledge. They love to try new things, read, and learn about the world around them. A Virgo will never say they are too old to sign up for a class and will often trade an evening in with a book or an intimate group of friends over a night out on the town. While they don’t require a busy social calendar to be content, they do prize beauty. Virgos are inspired by fashion and decorating, considering it an extension of their personality.
Related
Libra (September 23-October 22)
The seventh sign of the zodiac, libras are intelligent, kind, and selfless. Represented by the scales of justice, libras value harmony and are the master of compromise and diplomacy, adept at seeing the viewpoints of others. Librans thrive when they find harmony and balance in their life: their schedule, partnerships, friendships, and social justice. They are often viewed as indecisive, but they are really just meticulously weighing their options. Libras are often nonconfrontational, preferring to keep the peace, often willing to put others before themselves. They strongly value their relationships, whether its with their partner, friends, family, or co-workers, making them great team-players at work and at home.
An air sign, Libras are grand day dreamers. While they are great at making plans, they aren’t always great are following through. While Libras often have their ‘heads in the clouds,’ their imaginations are often a great asset, helping them excel in arts and literature. Ruled by Venus, the planet of beauty, Libras cherish a life that is aesthetically appealing and enjoy the finer things in life, liking to be pampered, tended to and treated to luxuries. Appearing self-confident on the outside, libras often struggle with their identity and self-esteem. To feel more secure with themselves, they seek time alone to listen to their gut and internal voice to maintain the desired harmony in their lives.
September Fun Facts:
- Ruled by Mercury, the fastest planet in our solar system, Virgos live a regimented life, with a long-term plan for the future, and the ability to think fast on their feet. Virgos’ have a propensity towards learning. They are meticulous and have an eye for details.
- -There are four cardinal signs, one at the beginning of each season. Libras, the first sign of autumn, are natural leaders and visionaries. Ruled by Venus, those born under this sign are filled with bold and bright new ideas, thinking in the big picture.
September Herbs of the Month
It is thought that herbs are related to specific zodiac signs. Particular herbs are thought to hold certain traits that highlight each zodiac sign, aiding in curing and alleviating symptoms.
In accordance with this thought, specific herbs are thought to amplify the redeeming qualities of those born under specific signs, or to help ease any dilemmas they may confront.
Virgo Herbs (August-September): In Greek mythology chamomile, an unassuming herb is associated with the god Apollo and is deemed a symbol of patience and endurance. In Norse mythology, chamomile relates to the goddess Frigg and was considered to draw good luck and prosperity. Chamomile is also often perceived as a representation of purity and virtue and is portrayed as such in art and literature throughout history.
Shakespeare mentions the chamomile flower on multiple accounts, and it is believed to symbolize the compassionate and nurturing nature of the female roles. The flower also pops up often in Victorian art, symbolizing innocence and beauty.
Libra Herbs (September-October): Dill’s distinct profile has the ability to refresh and cleanse and is commonly linked to rejuvenation and security. Throughout ancient times dill was believed to possess qualities to ward off evil spirits and protect against curses, with its lace-like blooms were thought to repel negative energy.
Many cultures consider it a lucky charm and use it in traditional rituals to attract wealth and good fortune, and is often included in bridal bouquets. In Greek and Norse mythology, it was connected to strength and love and known to be used in rituals and love potions
September Fun Facts:
- Chamomile can be harvested for tea by pulling off the tiny blooms when they are fully open. Pluck off the head with one hand while holding onto the stem just under the flower. Keep the stems unharmed to encourage new growth. To make chamomile tea, which has a fruity flavor, with apple undertones, steep three to four tablespoons of fresh or dried flowers in boiling water. Add a sprig of mint or honey to taste.
- To dry dill, hang the leaf sprig upside down in a warm, well-ventilated area for several weeks. Once dried, remove the leaves and store in an airtight container.
September Birth Month Bird: Hawk
The hawk, soaring high above the treetops symbolizes the powerful, majestic spirit of those born in September. Like those born in September, they “flap to the beat of their own drum,” are diligent, and dependable. Hawks represent strength, adaptability, protection, and perseverance. Like those born in September, the hawk is known to rise above obstacles.
While the hawk can appear threatening, they are a vital bird to have in the environment, helping to control populations of rodents and other animals considered to be pests to humans.
September Fun Facts:
- Hawks can be found in virtually every habitat on earth, except for extreme polar regions, residing on all continents, except for Antarctica. They typically nest high above the ground in trees, with some nesting in cliff sides or utility poles.
- Hawks generally live fifteen to 20 years in the wild, with some species living up to thirty years in captivity.
- A group of hawks, usually found flying in circles, is called a “Kettle”, with the pattern of your flight resembling the steam rising from a kettle.
What Does “September” Mean?
The month of September is derived from septem, Latin for “seven,” indicating the position in the early Roman calendar, because the year started in March. In 700 BCE, the Roman ruler, Numa Pompilius gave the calendar a lunar makeover, adding January and February to the calendar, making September the ninth month of the year.
September is the ninth month of the Gregorian calendar and has 30 days in it. In the Northern Hemisphere, September marks the beginning of fall, while in the southern half, it marks spring, with the autumnal equinox usually falling on September 22 or 23.
September Fun Facts:
- September used to only have 29 days. When Julius Caesar’s reformed the Roman calendar in 46 BC an additional day was added to the month, making it 30.
- The Anglo-Saxons referred to September as Hāligmonath, an old English word meaning “holy month,” when festivities and religious celebrations are often held to commemorate a successful summer’s crop.
Know any other September fun facts? Share in the comments!
September Weather Lore
For centuries we have looked to the sky to help foresee nature and the short-range forecast. Each month is rich in weather folklore to help us predict these changes in weather pattern.
September is a month of transition and the doorway to autumn, lush with change and signals sent from nature as we prepare for harvests and cold months ahead. September is also rich is folklore sayings (particularly those pertaining to rain), and one popular saying this month is “The first snow comes six weeks after the last thunderstorm in September.” Whether or not there is any scientific proof to this one or not (you will have to put it to the test yourself), these types of adages helped farmers plan their harvest and get settled in before the first sign of winter. See your regional forecast now.
Some other September weather-lore that connects nature to patterns of weather are:
- Fair on the first of September, fair the entire month.
- If the storms in September clear off warm, all the storms of the following winter will be warm.
- When September has been rainy, the following May is generally dry. When May is dry, September is apt to be wet.
- Thunder in September indicates a good crop of grains and fruits the next year.
September Night Sky
With longer, yet still mild nights, September is a great month in the North Hemisphere to head outside and gaze up at the night sky. This month you will be treated to the light of the Harvest Moon, a host of planet gazing opportunities, as well as various autumn constellations, such as Andromeda, Cassiopeia, Pegasus.
The Andromeda Galaxy, located in the constellation Andromeda, is another favorite September find. Also known as Messier 31, the Andromeda Galaxy is a larger version of the Milky Way, and at 2.5 million light years away, the farthest object you can see with your naked eyes, although binoculars or telescope will improve the view. With optimal viewing from September to October, look high in the Eastern sky at nightfall, free from light pollution. With the unaided eye, Andromeda is a hazy patch, or faint smudge, in the sky about the width of a full Moon.
Related
The Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, or the aurora borealis, have captivated people for millennia and are considered the Holy Grail of skywatching and September is considered one of the best months to witness this show. The beautiful dancing streamers of light are created when particles are spewed by the Sun and drawn into the Earth’s magnetic field, either the North or South poles, as they approach Earth. In the Northern Hemisphere, the phenomenon is called the northern lights (aurora borealis), while in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s called the southern lights (aurora australis).
When the solar particles collide with molecules high in the Earth’s atmosphere, it creates a cinematic light show, known as the Northern Lights. While Aurora doesn’t necessarily have a season, September and March are often regarded as the best months for viewing. These months have milder weather, darker nights, and are not impeded by snow cloud. The best places to see the Northern Lights are in the “auroral zone,” the area within an approximately 1,550-mile radius of the North Pole. One of the best places to view the light in the United States is Fairbanks, Alaska, since it is situated directly under the auroral oval. Northern Michigan and Minnesota also have great viewing locations. How far south you can see the Northern lights depends on solar activity and the strength of the geometric storms, causing the auroral oval to expand. Occasionally these storm roll around, sending an influx of particles towards the Earth, allowing the Northern continental United States a view of the Northern Lights. Read more about the Northern Lights.
September Fun Facts:
- Scientists says that the Andromeda Galaxy is headed straight for us and will eventually merge with the Milky Way, but this event won’t happen for a few billion years.
- The term aurora borealis was coined by Galileo in 1619. The word aurora is taken from the Roman goddess of the morning and the Greek name for the north wind, boreas. Greeks knew the goddess as Eos and her siblings were Helios (the Sun) and Selene (the Moon). It’s said that she would travel from east to west and announce the arrival of the Sun.
September Gardening
The cooler temperatures of September are a welcome change as we embark on the fall harvest in our garden. Now is the time to enjoy the fruits of your labor: the luscious ripe tomatoes and corn and crisp apples, but there is still much to be done in the garden.
- September is an ideal time to plant herbaceous perennials, trees, and shrubs, still allowing enough time for the roots to set before the ground freezes. You may even be able to find good deals on perennial plants at your local garden center. When choosing, be sure the plants look healthy as this will impact its ability to survive through the winter.
- Divide and replant any spring blooming perennials and water deeply to encourage root development.
- Plant needled and broadleaved evergreens by October 1st. Water them deeply upon planting and then weekly until the ground freezes.
- Plant grass seed on well-prepared soil surface. Cool-season grasses, such as bluegrass and ryegrass, fare best with early fall sowing when temperatures are cooler and natural rainfall can aid germination.
- Replace your containers and pots with cool-season flowers, such as chrysanthemums, fall-blooming asters, ornamental cabbage, and pansies.
- Dig up outdoor herbs, such as rosemary, chives, thyme, and marjoram and replant them in pots for growing indoors for fresh herbs through the winter.
- Keep pruning to a minimum in the fall. Plants need to channel their energy into winter dormancy rather than stimulating new growth by pruning. Evergreen hedges can be trimmed for aesthetic purposes.
- Remove any dead branches that pose a hazard from falling.
- Protect tree trunks and newly planted shrubs from deer, rabbits, and voles with metal fencing, wire cylinders, or hardware cloth.
- Check your vegetable garden daily and harvest vegetables as they ripen. If an early frost is expected, cover with frost fabrics or light blankets.
- Pick unripened tomatoes before chilly nights and allow them to ripen indoors.
- Towards the end of the month begin harvesting late-season squash and early pumpkins.
- Pick any cool-season vegetables such as lettuce, spinach, peas, radishes or swiss-chard that you may have planted in August.
- Plant any winter crops such as lettuce, spinach, arugula, kale, garlic, cabbage, brussel sprouts, swiss chard, beets, cauliflower, leeks, and carrots. For more tips on how to plant brussel sprouts.
- Remove any spent plants from your gardens. Only compost healthy plant matter, disposing of any diseased plants.
- Prepare your compost for the onslaught of autumn yard waste. Compost any grass clippings, fallen leaves, yard waste, and kitchen scraps. Be sure to avoid adding diseased plants and keep your compost moist.
- Pull any weeds from the garden or lawn before they get a chance to seed and take over, making your job easier come spring.
- After the long, hot days of summer, plants need plenty of water. Continue to water plants thoroughly, especially those that are not drought resistant. A good water rule of thumb is water infrequently, but slowly and thoroughly, in order to completely saturate the soil. A thorough watering twice a month through mid-late fall should do the trick.
- Plant spring bulbs, such as daffodils, tulips, and crocuses. Planting the bulbs in September will allow the roots to grow a bit before turning dormant over winter.
- Score some deals on gardening supplies, planters, potting soil, and even plants before the season comes to an end and they make room for holiday items.
- Collect, dry, and save seeds from your favorite plants to sow the following spring.
Related
September Trivia
- Labor Day is the first Monday in September, honoring workers and recognizing their contributions to society. On June 28, 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed it into law. The first known Labor Day Parade was held in New York City on Sept. 5, 1882—more than a decade before Labor Day became a national holiday.
- In 1752 the British Empire skipped 11 days of September, between the 2nd and 14th. This was due to their late transition from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar.
- The Romans associated different months with different gods. September is dedicated to Vulcan, the Roman god of fire.
- September always begins on the same day of the week of just one other month, December.
- Constitution Day, also called Citizenship Day is celebrated on September 17, the day the constitution was signed by delegates in 1787. It is a US federal government observance that honors and celebrates the creation and implementation of the United States Constitution and our country’s citizens.
- The country was changed on September 11, 2001 when the worst terrorist attack on US soil took place. Two planes were hijacked and flown into the twin towers of the World Trade Center, while another one crashed into the Pentagon. A fourth plane landed in a field in Pennsylvania after passengers attempted to regain control of the plane. This day is known as Patriot Day to commemorate all the lives lost on this day in 2001.
- England’s first Queen Elizabeth, authors Roald Dahl, Shel Silverstein, and Agatha Christie, actress Greta Garbo, scientist Michael Faraday, Victoria Woodhull, the first woman to run for president (1872- even though she couldn’t legally vote!), Jim Henson, the father of The Muppets, Tennis star Serena Williams, and singer/songwriter Bruce Springsteen were all born in the month of September.
- To celebrate US grown rice and its part in a healthy diet, President George H.W. Bush recognized September at National Rice Month (NRM).
Join The Discussion
Is your birthday in September?
Do you have any favorite symbols for September?
How about some interesting September fun facts, symbols, or folklore not mentioned above?
Share with your community here in the comments below!
This article was published by the staff at Farmers' Almanac. Do you have a question or an idea for an article? Contact us!
- Farmers' Almanac Staffhttps://www.farmersalmanac.com/author/fa-admin
- Farmers' Almanac Staffhttps://www.farmersalmanac.com/author/fa-admin
- Farmers' Almanac Staffhttps://www.farmersalmanac.com/author/fa-admin
- Farmers' Almanac Staffhttps://www.farmersalmanac.com/author/fa-admin
