December gets two signature blooms, and that makes the month more interesting. The December flower of the month is both holly and narcissus, a pairing that feels festive, thoughtful, and full of contrast. One is bold and evergreen. The other is soft, fragrant, and tied to fresh starts.
If you are choosing flowers for a winter birthday, a hosting gift, or an end-of-year event, these two blooms give you a strong place to start. They carry real meaning, but they also work beautifully in modern floral design. For a deeper look at the symbolism behind both stems, see our December birth flowers guide.
Meet December’s Two Official Flowers
Most months are linked to one flower. December is one of the few that gets two. Holly brings structure, shine, and a classic winter look. Narcissus, often seen as paperwhite, adds scent, movement, and a lighter mood.
That balance is part of why the pair works so well. Holly feels grounded and protective. Narcissus feels hopeful and bright. Together, they fit the season, a little reflective, a little celebratory, and ready for what comes next.
December flowers at a glance
| Feature | Holly | Narcissus |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Protection, goodwill, resilience | Hope, rebirth, new beginnings |
| Look | Glossy green leaves, red berries, strong shape | Star-like blooms, soft stems, fresh fragrance |
| Best uses | Wreaths, centerpieces, holiday styling, gifting | Bouquets, bud vases, winter weddings, thank-you flowers |
December’s two flowers are not interchangeable. They do different jobs in an arrangement, and that is exactly why designers like using them together.











