February Birth Flower: The Enchanting Violet

Hello, flower enthusiasts! 🌸 Michelle here from SilkBlume, and as we step into February, it’s the perfect time to celebrate this month’s birth flower: the enchanting Violet. I’m thrilled to share that we have some stunning violet arrangements available in our e-commerce store. Let’s delve into the rich history, symbolism, and beauty of violets, and I’ll introduce you to our exclusive offerings that bring this timeless bloom into your home.

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The Significance of Violets

Violets have long been symbols of loyalty, humility, and faithfulness. In ancient Greece, they were associated with love and fertility, often used in love potions. Although nowadays, I think we prefer to stick to delicious cocktails like the one below. (Maybe it’s still a love potion… who knows?) The Greeks and Romans also utilized violets in herbal remedies, wines, and culinary dishes, showcasing their versatility and importance in daily life.

In Christian tradition, violets are linked to the Virgin Mary’s humility, believed to have blossomed when the Angel Gabriel announced her divine role. This association underscores the flower’s connection to modesty and grace.

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A Glimpse into Violet Varieties

The violet family is vast and diverse, with over 680 species ranging from petite 2-inch plants to more statuesque 20-inch varieties. While we often envision violets in their classic purple hue, they also dazzle in shades of blue, white, red, and yellow. Some even boast a mix of colors, adding a vibrant splash to nature’s palette.

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Bringing Violets into Your Space

At SilkBlume, we’re excited to offer exquisite artificial violet arrangements that capture the essence of this beloved flower without the maintenance of live plants. Here are some of our featured products:

  • 21″ African Violet Plant in Hanging Bucket (Set of 2): These charming hanging arrangements bring a touch of elegance to any space, perfect for adding a pop of color to your living room or patio.
  • African Violet with Vase Silk Plant (Set of 2): Delicately arranged in sleek vases, these violets are ideal for tabletops, desks, or as thoughtful gifts for loved ones.
  • African Violet, Dieffenbachia & Ivy with Chest Silk Plant: A lush combination that offers a fuller, more dynamic display, bringing the beauty of nature indoors.
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These lifelike arrangements are crafted to mimic the natural beauty of violets, providing a lasting touch of springtime to your decor.

Here’s Your Love Potion — Crème de Violette Recipe 🍸

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Beyond their visual appeal, violets have been used in culinary traditions for centuries. One delightful way to enjoy their unique flavor is by crafting your own Crème de Violette, a classic liqueur that can be sipped on its own or used in cocktails like the Aviation. Here’s a simple recipe to try at home:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh violets (ensure they are pesticide-free)
  • Peel of one orange
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1.5 cups brandy
  • 1.5 cups water
  • 1 whole vanilla bean
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Instructions:

  1. Gently rinse the violets, removing any stems.
  2. In a large, sterilized jar, combine the violets and orange peel.
  3. In a saucepan, dissolve the sugar and honey in water over low heat to create a syrup. Let it cool.
  4. Pour the cooled syrup and brandy over the violets and orange peel in the jar.
  5. Split the vanilla bean and add it to the mixture.
  6. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for about a month, shaking it gently every few days.
  7. After a month, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean bottle.
  8. Enjoy your homemade Crème de Violette in cocktails or as a delightful after-dinner liqueur.

Note: Always ensure that any flowers used in culinary applications are free from pesticides and safe for consumption.

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Caring for African Violets

If you’re inspired to grow your own violets, African violets are a popular choice for indoor gardening. Here are some care tips to keep them thriving:

  • Light: Provide bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light may prevent blooming.
  • Water: Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Watering from the bottom can help prevent water spots on the leaves.
  • Humidity: African violets prefer higher humidity levels. Placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water can help maintain the desired humidity.
  • Temperature: Maintain indoor temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C – 27°C) for optimal growth.
  • Fertilization: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer formulated for African violets every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

Or if you’re like most of us, you don’t really have the time to deal with growing your own — but that doesn’t mean you don’t love having plants and flowers in your space. That’s where SilkBlume steps in! 🌿

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Embracing the Violet’s Charm

Whether you’re adorning your home with our lifelike arrangements or trying your hand at the Crème de Violette recipe, there’s no denying the timeless allure of violets. Their rich history, symbolic meanings, and delicate beauty make them a cherished choice for many.

✨ Explore our full collection of artificial floral designs at SilkBlume USA. ✨

With love and petals
Michelle 🌸