Amaryllis are a holiday favourite, both as stunning cut flowers and as bulbs to plant and grow at home. Their bold, trumpet-shaped blooms are showstoppers — even a single stem paired with wintergreens makes a striking display.
If you don’t have a tall vase, no problem! Simply trim the stems to fit your vessel. Amaryllis stems are thick and hollow, so here’s a tip: lay them on the kitchen counter with the blooms hanging over the edge to avoid bruising. Then, slice through the stems all at once, as if chopping celery. Be sure to re-cut them every few days when you refresh the water to keep them looking their best.
In nature, amaryllis bloom in spring and summer, but for us, they’re winter flowers — commercially grown to bloom early for the holiday season. At Quince, we also carry forced bulbs that you can grow at home.
To plant amaryllis bulbs, choose a snug pot no larger than 6 inches in diameter per bulb. Use potting soil and add a stake for support once the stalk reaches about 12 inches. Water generously and place the pot in a bright spot. When the blooms open, move it to a cooler, less sunny location to extend their beauty.
Amaryllis symbolize strength and determination, making them a meaningful addition to your holiday décor. As winter settles in, their vibrant blooms remind us of resilience and hope — a little bit of light and colour as we wait for spring. Whether you enjoy them as cut flowers or nurture them from bulb to bloom, amaryllis are a gift to brighten the season.
