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Christmas decorating is one of our favorite things to do, and adding these best Christmas flowers to your holiday decor can add that special touch to your home.
We’ve picked out what we feel are the five best flowers for your holiday decorating. These flowers are beautiful in arrangements, or they can stand alone as their own decoration.
1.Poinsettias
We couldn’t start without naming one of the most popular and well-known Christmas plants. Poinsettias are known as “The Christmas Star” – given the name for their star-shaped leaf pattern, said to symbolize the Star of Bethlehem.
Poinsettias, with their vibrant red and green foliage, have become synonymous with the festive spirit of Christmas. Native to Mexico, these iconic plants were first introduced to the United States by Joel Poinsett in the 19th century, hence their name. The striking red leaves, often mistaken for petals, are actually bracts that surround the small, inconspicuous flowers. Poinsettias have since become a cherished symbol of the holiday season, adorning homes, churches, and public spaces with their cheerful and festive appearance. Their popularity during Christmas is not only due to their visual appeal but also their timing, as they typically bloom in December.
Caring for a Poinsettia:
Place the plant in a well-lit spot with indirect sunlight, avoiding drafts and extreme temperatures. Water the poinsettia thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, but be cautious not to let it sit in standing water. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
The flowers and bracts can last a few months if cared for properly. By Spring, the plant will finish blooming, and you can trim back the stem and prune the old leaves.
With preparation, you can get your poinsettia to rebloom by Christmas by watering and fertilizing throughout the year. To stimulate blooming, you should place them in total darkness for 14 hours nightly, beginning in October. You can either shield the plant with a box or place it inside a dark area like a cupboard or closet. This initiates the flowering process and trigger the transition from green to the vibrant red we love at Christmas.
Shop for a Poinsettia here.
2.Amaryllis
Amaryllis flowers add a touch of elegance and grace to the holiday season with their stunning blooms and vibrant colors. Native to South America, these large and trumpet-shaped flowers are a popular choice for Christmas decorations and gifts. Amaryllis bulbs are often planted in the fall, and their impressive blossoms emerge just in time for Christmas, showcasing shades of red, white, and pink. Their tall, sturdy stems and bold petals make them a striking centerpiece in festive arrangements. A symbol of beauty and strength, the amaryllis effortlessly captures the spirit of Christmas, bringing joy and sophistication to homes and celebrations during the winter season.
How to care for an Amaryllis:
Caring for an amaryllis involves a few key steps to ensure its optimal growth and beautiful blooms. Plant the bulb in well-draining soil, leaving the upper third of the bulb above the soil surface. Place the pot in a sunny location to encourage robust flowering. Water the amaryllis sparingly initially, allowing the soil to dry between watering sessions. Once the stem emerges and flowers start to bloom, increase watering slightly. To support the tall stems, it may be beneficial to stake them. Remove any spent flowers promptly to encourage new blooms and prolong the flowering period.
After the amaryllis has finished blooming, let the foliage continue to grow and photosynthesize to replenish the bulb’s energy. In late spring, stop watering and allow the foliage to wither naturally. Store the bulb in a cool, dry place for a few weeks before restarting the growth cycle. With proper care, amaryllis plants can provide spectacular blooms season after season.
Shop for an Amaryllis here.
3.Cyclamen
Cyclamens, with their delicate, upswept petals and heart-shaped leaves, make the perfect addition to your festive decor. Originating from the Mediterranean region, these perennial plants are known for their vibrant colors, including various shades of pink, red, and white. Cyclamens are often chosen as indoor holiday plants for their dainty yet striking appearance.
Caring for a Cyclamen:
To care for cyclamen during Christmas, place it in a cool, well-lit area away from direct sunlight. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Removing spent flowers and yellowing leaves helps redirect the plant’s energy toward new blooms.
Shop for a Cyclamen here.
4.Red and White Roses
Red and white roses intertwine to create a visually captivating and symbolic display during the Christmas season. The deep crimson of red roses and the pristine purity of white roses combine to evoke feelings of love, joy, and peace. Red roses traditionally represent love and passion, while white roses symbolize purity and new beginnings. As a festive bouquet or arrangement, this dynamic duo embodies the spirit of the holidays, bringing a touch of romance and elegance to Christmas celebrations.
Caring For Your Roses:
Freshly cut red roses can stay vibrant for a week or longer when placed in water. If you plan to incorporate them into your Christmas decor, we suggest placing an order for delivery a couple of days before Christmas. This ensures that the roses will retain their beauty well into the days following the holiday festivities.
Shop for red and white roses here.
5.Holly
Finally, another of our favorite Christmas plants, Holly. With its glossy green leaves and vibrant red berries, holly holds a special place in the heart of Christmas traditions. A symbol of enduring life and goodwill, holly has been used for centuries to decorate homes during the holiday season. The sharp-edged leaves and bright berries create a festive contrast, embodying the spirit of hope and joy. Often incorporated into wreaths, garlands, and festive arrangements, holly adds a touch of nature’s beauty to Christmas celebrations. Beyond its decorative role, holly has deep-rooted cultural significance, symbolizing protection and a reminder of the evergreen spirit even in the winter’s chill.
Caring for Holly:
Holly plants prefer well-draining soil and can adapt to various light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. Holly needs to be regularly watered, keeping the soil consistently moist. Mulching around the base of the holly helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Pruning can be done to shape the plant and control its size, but it’s important to note that many holly species produce berries on female plants, so having both male and female plants can enhance berry production. Holly is generally hardy and resistant to pests and diseases, making it a relatively low-maintenance addition to gardens. With proper care, holly can thrive and continue to bring its festive charm to your landscape for years to come.
Shop for Holly here.
