May 12 marks one of the most beautiful moments of the month for astronomy lovers (and astrology fans too), as we’ll get to see the most stunning phase of our natural satellite lighting up the night sky: the full moon. This time around, it’s a Flower Moon, and here’s why.
First things first: no, the moon’s new nickname has nothing to do with Martin Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon. The Farmer’s Almanac notes that the name “Flower Moon” comes from the Algonquin people, who named each full moon based on seasonal changes in nature. In May, that means the burst of wildflowers across North America, like lupine, violets (Rhode Island’s state flower), wild garlic, anemones, and more.
Aside from its name, here’s another fun fact: the full moon in May will also be a micromoon. While many are familiar with the term “supermoon,” a micromoon is its opposite. It occurs when the moon is at its farthest distance from Earth, though, according to Time and Date, it won’t look any smaller.
When to see May’s flower moon from L.A.?
To catch the Flower Moon from Los Angeles, head outside around sunset at 7:45 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025. Just 30 minutes later, at 8:15 p.m., the full moon will rise above the horizon. Find a spot with a clear view for the best chance to see the moonlight in the night sky.