The November birth flower is the chrysanthemum — the cheerful, long-lasting bloom known everywhere as the “mum”. Chrysanthemums flower in late autumn when most gardens have faded, which is exactly why they became November’s flower. They symbolise loyalty, friendship, joy and long life, although their meaning shifts from culture to culture. Here is everything to know about the November birth flower: colour meanings, history, symbolism around the world, tattoo and gift ideas, and how to grow mums that come back every year.
November Birth Flower at a Glance
| Flower | Chrysanthemum |
| Botanical name | Chrysanthemum (garden mums: C. × morifolium) |
| Name means | “Golden flower” (Greek chrysos + anthemon) |
| Native to | China and East Asia |
| Main meanings | Loyalty, friendship, joy, optimism, long life |
| Zodiac signs | Scorpio and Sagittarius |
Chrysanthemum Colour Meanings
| Colour | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Red | Love and passion |
| White | Loyalty, honesty, purity; also used for remembrance in some cultures |
| Yellow | Joy and friendship today; in Victorian flower language, slighted love |
| Purple | Get well soon, thoughtfulness |
| Pink | Admiration and affection |
| Orange/bronze | Warmth, enthusiasm, autumn gratitude |
What the November Birth Flower Means Around the World
- China: cultivated for more than 2,500 years, the chrysanthemum is one of the “Four Gentlemen” of Chinese art and symbolises nobility, longevity and a peaceful life. Chrysanthemum tea is still a popular drink.
- Japan: a stylised chrysanthemum is the imperial seal, and the throne is called the Chrysanthemum Throne. The Festival of Happiness (Kiku no Sekku) celebrates the flower.
- United States: a cheerful symbol of autumn and friendship, and the official flower of the city of Chicago.
- Australia: the traditional Mother’s Day flower, because “mum” is a nickname for mother.
- France, Belgium, Italy and Spain: chrysanthemums are placed on graves around All Saints’ Day (November 1), so they are linked with remembrance — avoid giving them as a casual gift there.
November Birth Flower Personality
Tradition says people born in November share the chrysanthemum’s qualities:
- Loyal – devoted friends who stay through hard seasons.
- Resilient – blooming when others fade.
- Warm and optimistic – bringing colour to grey days.
- Deep – matching the intensity of Scorpio and the curiosity of Sagittarius.
November’s birthstones are topaz and citrine — read our November birthstone guide.
November Birth Flower Tattoo Ideas
- A single fine-line chrysanthemum on the wrist or behind the ear.
- Japanese-style chrysanthemum sleeve with bold outlines.
- A chrysanthemum paired with a topaz-coloured dot for the birthstone.
- Combined birth flower bouquet for each family member.
- A minimalist mum with a name or date in script.
- A watercolour bronze chrysanthemum for autumn tones.
November Birth Flower Gift Ideas
- A potted hardy mum they can plant in the garden.
- A chrysanthemum bouquet in their favourite colour (check the colour meaning first).
- Birth flower necklace or engraved ring.
- Chrysanthemum tea set.
- Pressed-flower frame or phone case.
Add a card with our birthday wishes for love or birthday quotes.
How to Grow Chrysanthemums
- Hardy vs florist mums: “hardy” or garden mums can survive winter; florist mums are usually treated as annuals.
- Plant in spring for the best chance of perennial return; autumn-planted mums have less time to root.
- Sun: at least six hours a day.
- Pinch back growing tips until early July for a bushier plant with more blooms.
- Water at the base and keep soil evenly moist; mulch before winter.
- Pets: chrysanthemums are toxic to cats and dogs if eaten, so place them out of reach.
November Birth Flower FAQ
What is the November birth flower?
The chrysanthemum.
What does the November birth flower symbolise?
Loyalty, friendship, joy and long life; white mums can also symbolise remembrance.
Are chrysanthemums a funeral flower?
In parts of Europe and Asia, white chrysanthemums are used for funerals and graves; in the US they are mostly a cheerful autumn flower.
Also see our October birth flower guide. For more month-by-month flower meanings, visit The Old Farmer’s Almanac.
