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I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again: I am a firmly rooted earth sign. (Capricorn sun, Virgo rising, if you were wondering.) But what does that mean exactly for the people in my life—as well as all others who come in contact with Capricorns, Virgos, and Tauruses? “Earth signs are the practical planners of the zodiac,” says Tali Edut, one half of The AstroTwins, our resident astrologers. “They actually make planning fun.” If that sounds like anyone you know, keep reading to get the dirt on this particular astrological group.
Earth Sign Dates
Taurus: April 20–May 20
Virgo: August 23–September 22
Capricorn: December 22–January 19
Earth Sign Traits
Do you have what I call “group project energy”? Then you might just be an earth sign. “Earth signs are the practical planners of the zodiac,” Edut says. “They actually make planning fun. Whether it’s putting together a vacation or a dinner party—they make sure things actually happen.” In turn, they often love having traditions between them and their friends and family. But earth signs, much like the sturdy ground for which they’re named, can also be rigid and dry. “[They can be] a little bit hung up on status and [being] perfectionistic. They want to do a good job, but almost to a point of being really hard on themselves or judgmental of other people.”
If you have an earth sign for your sun sign...
...you likely need things to be a certain way in order to feel comfortable. “You’re very connected to your environment,” Edut explains. “And whatever you’re into, you’re going to work hard for it. You’re going to put in that work to make it happen.”
If you have an earth sign for your rising sign...
...you can come across as being serious and hardworking. “Whether or not you are, people trust you,” she says. “Usually they see you as this reliable person that they can count on.”
If you have an earth sign for your moon sign...
...you need a lot of structure and stability in your personal life, whether it’s with your friendships or your romantic relationships. “Earth moons tend to be more traditional [with] relationships.”
Earth Sign Compatibility
Earth and fire signs can make a productive duo, though they don’t always see eye to eye. “Fire signs bring the big ideas, and earth signs are like, ‘Let’s make it happen, and here’s how,’” Edut says. However, fire signs are not into traditions or routines, like earth signs. “They can really disrupt earth signs’ inner flow and make them feel insecure.” On the other hand, earth and water signs are an easy match, since they both value comfort and security and “know how to give that to each other.”
The weirdest combo of the three—earth and air—can still “have a lot of fun together,” Edut says. “They can help each other to both lighten up and settle down. If they can find a similar groove, it’s an odd couple match, but it can work.”
Taurus Traits
As the fixed earth signs, Tauruses are the most stubborn of the three. They’re also ruled by the planet Venus, meaning this sensual sign loves art, beauty, comfort, and music. “They’re very tuned into their senses,” Edut says. “Everything’s got to smell good, taste good, look good. Aesthetics are important to them.” It’s no surprise then that some of the world’s most famous artists are also Tauruses: Adele, Kelly Clarkson, and Lizzo, for example.
Virgo Traits
The mutable earth signs, Edut describes Virgos as “the fertilizer that causes the plant to shoot through the earth.” In short: they’re the fixers of the bunch. “They make great therapists, advisors, coaches, personal trainers, editors, and curators. They are the critics who can spot the flaws, but they’re also good at coming up with ways to make things better.” Even when you didn’t ask for it, this perfectionistic sign will always offer feedback. Some of the most famous Virgos are people who are celebrated for being at the top of their game—like Beyoncé, Zendaya, and Ava DuVernay.
Capricorn Traits
Traditionally known as the “father” sign of the zodiac, Capricorns are the cardinal earth sign, making them the rational, objective providers and protectors. “All earth signs want to make sure that their people are okay,” Edut says. “Virgos have advice, whereas Capricorns want to provide something and really help.” Capricorns are also the ambitious high achievers, which can sometimes make them elitist, snobby, or impossible to please. “They have very high standards, probably the highest standards of any zodiac sign in some ways, but they hold themselves to that standard, too. They’re here to achieve and reach their highest potential.” It makes sense why Michelle Obama, Timothée Chalamet, and Mary J. Blige are some of the most famous Capricorns.
Rapid-Fire Questions
What would you recommend an earth sign do to relax?
Edut: A spa day or a nature walk, for sure.
What about an ideal meal for an earth sign?
Edut: Definitely something with fresh, raw produce from the earth. A big kale salad, an acai bowl—hippie food is earth sign food.
What should an earth sign splurge on?
Edut: A really nice bag that can fit everything.
Madison is a senior writer/editor at ELLE.com, covering news, politics, and culture. When she's not on the internet, you can most likely find her taking a nap or eating banana bread.
