amaryllis

 

One of my favorite holiday traditions is the forcing of bulbs.  Last week the room was scented by the blooms of the paper-white narcissus.  Today, as I sat at the computer, I admired the sun backlighting the newly-bloomed amaryllis

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


amaryllis

 

My amaryllis are absolutely amazing this year.