What Special Flowers are Recommended for Christmas in Calgary?

Christmas is a time of joy, celebration, and the exchange of gifts. Among the many traditions that make this season special, flowers play a significant role in adding a touch of elegance and festivity to homes and events. Calgary, with its unique climate and vibrant community, offers a variety of flowers that are perfect for Christmas decorations. Whether you're looking to adorn your home, gift a loved one, or contribute to a festive event, these special flowers are sure to bring a touch of holiday cheer.

Poinsettias: The Classic Christmas Flower

No discussion of Christmas flowers would be complete without mentioning the poinsettia. This vibrant plant, with its bright red leaves, is synonymous with the holiday season. Originating from Mexico, poinsettias have become a staple in Christmas decorations worldwide. In Calgary, poinsettias are readily available and come in various sizes, from small tabletop plants to large, eye-catching displays. Their rich red color symbolizes the blood of Christ, making them a meaningful addition to any Christmas celebration.

Holly: A Traditional Symbol of Christmas

Holly is another traditional Christmas flower that holds deep symbolic meaning. Its sharp, green leaves and bright red berries are a classic combination that adds a touch of nature to holiday decorations. In Calgary, holly can be found in florists and garden centers, often used in wreaths, garlands, and centerpieces. The plant's prickly leaves are said to represent the crown of thorns worn by Jesus, while the red berries symbolize the drops of blood shed for humanity. This makes holly not only a beautiful decoration but also a meaningful one.

Christmas Cactus: A Blooming Delight

The Christmas cactus is a unique and beautiful flower that blooms during the holiday season. Unlike traditional cacti, the Christmas cactus has flat, segmented leaves and vibrant, tubular flowers that come in shades of pink, red, and white. In Calgary, these plants are popular for their ability to thrive indoors and their long-lasting blooms. The Christmas cactus is a great choice for those looking to add a touch of natural beauty to their holiday decor without the need for extensive care.

Amaryllis: A Bold and Colorful Choice

Amaryllis is a bold and striking flower that is perfect for adding a pop of color to your Christmas decorations. Known for its large, trumpet-shaped blooms, amaryllis comes in a variety of colors, including red, pink, white, and even bi-color combinations. In Calgary, these flowers are often sold as bulbs that can be planted and enjoyed throughout the holiday season. Amaryllis is a great choice for those who want to add a dramatic and vibrant touch to their Christmas arrangements.

Ornamental Cabbage and Kale: A Unique Twist

For those looking to add a unique and unconventional touch to their Christmas decorations, ornamental cabbage and kale are excellent choices. These plants feature colorful, leafy foliage that comes in shades of purple, red, and white. In Calgary, they are often used in outdoor decorations, such as planters and window boxes, but can also be incorporated into indoor arrangements. Their striking appearance and hardy nature make them a versatile and long-lasting addition to any holiday decor.

Questions and Answers

1. Why are poinsettias a popular choice for Christmas decorations?

Poinsettias are popular for Christmas decorations because of their vibrant red color, which symbolizes the blood of Christ, and their availability in various sizes. They are easy to care for and add a festive touch to any home or event.

2. What is the symbolic meaning of holly in Christmas decorations?

Holly's sharp, green leaves symbolize the crown of thorns worn by Jesus, while its bright red berries represent the drops of blood shed for humanity. This makes holly not only a beautiful decoration but also a meaningful one.

3. How do Christmas cacti differ from other cacti?

Unlike traditional cacti, Christmas cacti have flat, segmented leaves and vibrant, tubular flowers that come in shades of pink, red, and white. They are known for their ability to thrive indoors and their long-lasting blooms.

4. Why are ornamental cabbage and kale a unique choice for Christmas decorations?

Ornamental cabbage and kale feature colorful, leafy foliage in shades of purple, red, and white. Their striking appearance and hardy nature make them a versatile and long-lasting addition to any holiday decor, offering a unique twist to traditional Christmas flowers.

Summary

Christmas in Calgary is made more festive with the addition of special flowers that not only add beauty but also carry symbolic meanings. Poinsettias, with their vibrant red leaves, are the classic choice, while holly adds a traditional touch with its green leaves and red berries. The Christmas cactus and amaryllis offer unique and colorful blooms, perfect for indoor decorations. For a more unconventional approach, ornamental cabbage and kale provide striking foliage that can be used both indoors and outdoors. Each of these flowers brings its own charm and significance, making them ideal for celebrating the holiday season in Calgary.