Amaryllis

  Amaryllis is a bulbous plant which originated in South America's tropical regions. Amaryllis is easy to be brought to bloom and is a great beginner plant if you are just getting into gardening. Amaryllis can be planted from October until late April and will flower from late December until the end of June. The larger bulbs will produce more flowers. Unplanted bulbs should be stored in a place that is kept between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Tall stemmed, with trumpet-like blooms, the amaryllis symbolizes radiant beauty. However, Greek mythology has it that the flower got its start from a shy shepherdess, who pierced her heart and created a crimson flower.

    The word "amaryllis" comes from the Greek word "amaryssein," which means "to sparkle," referring to the bloom. Today, the amaryllis symbolizes pride, determination and radiant beauty--the kind that emanates from an inner source and flowers outward. Amaryllis has tall, thick stems and large, colorful flowers. Bloom colors includes red, pink, white, cream, orange and striped and variegated shades of several other colors.