the bell flower of christmas

 

One of my favorite Christmas traditions is the growing, giving and receiving of amaryllis.  The name of the flower is based on Greek Mythology, specifically a Greek shepherdess named Amaryllis. "Amaryllis" means sparkling, which refers to the spectacular blooms. This amaryllis "Apple Blossom" is precocious, putting out its double flower before Christmas.  In the spring, after the bloom is spent, this bulb will join all its sisters in the backyard flower garden.
My Sunroom

Lubbock, Texas