November ushers in a time of deep reflection, gratitude, and preparation for winter’s arrival. As the harvest season winds down, the month carries powerful energies of transformation, ancestral connection, and spiritual protection. Traditionally, this is a time for honoring those who came before, gathering resources for the colder months, and working magick related to prosperity, healing, and introspection. With the veil still thin from Samhain, November is ideal for divination, dream work, and strengthening ties with the spirit world. This month’s fun facts highlight the seasonal influences, natural cycles, and Hoodoo traditions that shape this powerful time of year.
The name November originates from the Latin word novem, meaning "nine." In the early Roman calendar, November was the ninth month of the year. Even after January and February were added, making it the eleventh month, the name remained unchanged.
National Native American Heritage Month: November is designated in the U.S. to honor the history, culture, and contributions of Native American communities.
Advent of Daylight Saving Time: In some countries, November marks the end of Daylight Saving Time, when clocks “fall back” to standard time.
Birthstones: Topaz and Citrine
November’s birthstones are topaz and citrine, both celebrated for their warm, golden hues that evoke the autumnal glow of the month. Topaz, traditionally associated with strength and wisdom, comes in a range of colors, but the golden-yellow variety is most closely tied to November. It has long been considered a stone of love, loyalty, and protection. Citrine, a variety of quartz, is renowned for its vibrant, sunny shades of yellow and orange, symbolizing joy, abundance, and energy. Both stones are believed to carry soothing and uplifting properties, making them perfect talismans for warding off negativity and encouraging prosperity as the year begins to wane.
Herbs for November
November marks the transition of plants into their dormant phase. Trees shed their leaves, and herbaceous plants begin to die back, signaling a natural slowing of growth, even in evergreens like rosemary, thyme, and sage. While you can still harvest these resilient herbs, it’s best to do so sparingly, as their growth will pause during the colder months. Roots, on the other hand, are at their prime! As the above-ground parts of plants recede, their energy concentrates in the roots, making it the ideal time to harvest magickal, medicinal, and culinary roots such as dandelion, burdock, horseradish, valerian, marshmallow, and elecampane. November is also a season for mushrooms, which, though not herbs, are just as valuable for their versatility.
Fruits and Vegetables
November’s fruits and vegetables celebrate the bounty of autumn and the shift toward hearty, warming produce. Root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, turnips, and beets are at their peak, offering earthy flavors perfect for roasts and stews. Winter squashes, including butternut, acorn, and pumpkin, provide sweetness and depth to dishes while being rich in vitamins. Cruciferous vegetables like Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower thrive in the cooler weather, boasting a subtle sweetness enhanced by a touch of frost. Apples and pears remain plentiful, their crisp textures and natural sweetness lending themselves to both savory and sweet creations. This is also a time for foraged delights like chestnuts and late-season wild berries. The produce of November embodies comfort and nourishment, perfectly suited to the season’s chill.
Flower of the Month: Chrysanthemum
November’s birth flower, the chrysanthemum, is a vibrant symbol of optimism, joy, and longevity. In many cultures, chrysanthemums are celebrated for their beauty and resilience, blooming brightly even as the year wanes. In Hoodoo, these flowers are valued not only for their cheerful appearance but also for their spiritual properties. Chrysanthemums are often incorporated into workings aimed at fostering happiness, dispelling negativity, and drawing positive energy into a space or individual’s life. Yellow chrysanthemums are particularly associated with friendship and good fortune, while red varieties can be used in love work to ignite passion and warmth. Dried chrysanthemum petals may be added to floor washes or sprinkled around the home to uplift the energy and create an atmosphere of peace and harmony. Their enduring blooms remind us to find joy even during life’s colder seasons, making them a perfect emblem for November.
*Photo by Joyboy: https://www.pexels.com/photo/mother-and-child-in-catrina-costumes-in-mexico-city-28861054/
Sonya
Thank you so much! I have all of the above mentioned herbs growing in pots on my patio. I would have cut them back rather hard if not for this blog’s information. So it is indeed very good that I decided to read it. And I will make sure to read all of the ones to follow!