Wednesday 7 December 2016

Amaryllis - Flower of the Month

Amidst all the festive decorations there is one flower which holds its place perfectly: the sparkling amaryllis. Consumers can read all about this Christmas star in the Flower Agenda at Funnyhowflowersdothat.co.uk. This long-stemmed stately beauty is perfect for capturing hearts: a festive delight! 


The amaryllis’s origin
Our amaryllis originates from South and Central America and the Caribbean, and is not actually an amaryllis. What we call amaryllis is actually called Hippeastrum. This radiant flower is derived from the narcissi family and grows from a bulb. The name Hippeastrum comes from the Greek and literally means ‘knight star’, referring to the star-shaped petals. Hippeus = knight and astron = star.
The amaryllis’s colours and shapes
The amaryllis’s petals are very unusual: they look like they’re made of fabulous velvet. In terms of colour they come in white, red, yellow, pink, salmon, purple, orange and bicoloured. There are usually 4 to 6 impressive flowers on the stem. The amaryllis as a cut flower does not have any leaves, which is why it’s sometimes called ‘Naked Lady’ in America.

Care tips for customers
Help your customers to enjoy their amaryllises for a long time by giving them the following tips.
•    Select a clean vase and fill it with tap water at room temperature.
•    Add cut flower food to the water for a longer vase life.
•    Trim the stems diagonally with a clean and sharp knife or secateurs.
•    Regularly top the vase up with tap water.
•    The amaryllis’s stem is sometimes too weak to bear the weight of the flowers: a stake inserted in the stem is then the solution to keep it properly upright.
•     Amaryllises will last longer in a cool spot; do not place them in the sun or close to a source of heat.
•    Don’t place amaryllises near a fruit bowl. Fruit emits ethylene gas which will cause the flowers to age more rapidly.
Amaryllis symbolism
The amaryllis symbolises pride and enchanting beauty and represents friendship and affection. It’s the perfect flower for capturing someone’s heart so it’s a lovely gift to receive!

I have these in stock for the Christmas period as cut flowers. Please get in touch if you would like to send them as a gift for Christmas

Sandra x

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