Seasonal flowers and plants such as poinsettia, Christmas cactus, holly, Christmas rose, ivy and mistletoe form a major part of traditional Christmas decorations. With less than a fortnight to go before Christmas it’s time to finalise those blooms.

Poinsettia

The ancient Aztecs prized the poinsettia as a symbol of purity. The Mexican poinsettia, known as the Christmas Flower in North America, is incorporated in most Christmas decorations, the result of its bright red colour and its blooming season coinciding with that of the Christmas holidays.

Christmas cactus

Christmas cactus, also known as orchid cactus, often blooms around Christmas time. Pendulous stems of Christmas cactus make it a great choice for hanging baskets.

Christmas rose

The Christmas rose is regarded as a true Christmas flower in certain parts of the world. Indeed, the Christmas rose is also known as the “snow rose” or “winter rose.” Originally from tropical regions of Asia, the cultivated Christmas rose often blooms during the winter.

Cyclamen

A European plant of the primrose family, having pink, red, or white flowers with backward-curving petals and grown as a winter-flowering pot plant.

Cupressus

Decorating the Christmas tree is the most powerful reminder of Christmas. The most common variety is widely grown as the Cupressus. Typically grown in cooler areas of the island, especially the Blue Mountains, as well as other areas in upper St Andrew, Trelawny, St Elizabeth, and St James.