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Christmas Cactus

Dec22

The unique tropical Christmas cactus has been kept as a beloved holiday houseplant since the 1800’s. It is quite a bit different from cacti that grow in the dessert, because it actually keeps its blooms longer in cooler temperatures, and even wilts if it does not get enough water! They are great in hanging baskets from the florist.

Schlumbergera truncata is the botanical name of the Christmas cactus. The name is derived from Frédéric Schlumberger, a well known Frenchman who collected cacti and grew them at his home. Flower shops have many colors to embrace such as red, fuscia, pink, purple, orange and crème, the flowers of the Christmas cactus are pleasant indeed.

As for the “Christmas Tree”… Pine and fir trees are evergreens found in cold climates, and these generally are used as Christmas trees. They bring people comfort from the cold harsh winter. However, since some countries like Africa and Australia have hot dry conditions, nature does not provide pine and fir trees. So the custom of decorating the Christmas cactus as Christmas tree came into being. They decorate the Christmas cactus just as we would, having the best of both worlds with ornaments and flowers!

Here is a neat article from HGTV on these delightful plants: http://www.hgtv.com/decorating/getting-the-best-out-of-your-holiday-plants/index.html

Flowers by the Falls . Kings Mountain, NC  (704) 739-7331

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Flower Ornaments & Wreaths for Christmas

Dec13

Who doesn’t love decorating for the holidays! Strolling through town in the cool air, with lights everywhere just gets you right in the spirit. At home, most like to decorate the Christmas tree with all of their favorite ornaments. To switch it up a bit, they may even go a little crazy by using colored lights instead of the white lights from year before. How about something new though?

Consider a creative spin from the bridal bouquet balls that hang from ribbon, by decorating with fresh flowers! Adult pomanders or kissing balls is what they are often called, and a miniature version of these truly makes a fashion statement and a fantastic ornament! Have the flower shop design with red roses for instance, chrysanthemums, carnations or even holly, depending on your style. For fun, to add even more personality, these of course can hang from any type of ribbon or beads you desire! String them across your favorite window, hang them from the mantle, add them into the tree, or even mix them into your centerpiece table arrangement on Christmas day. These will have your friends & family smitten.

Flower wreaths need not be forgotten, as they are just as visually stunning as any other Christmas decoration. Who says these can only be used at weddings, to hang on trees &  reception doors. Would you not rather spend the money with your florist to enjoy them for the holiday season as opposed to just one day wedding day? Red roses & poinsettias are undoubtedly the favorites, but there are many flower combinations that lend themselves to this idea. Here is a blog that has several beautiful flower wreaths: http://thefrenchsampler.blogspot.com/2010/12/christmas-flowers.html Fresh flower wreaths are great to hang on your front door or dining room area, and are especially great over the headboard of your bed.

Flowers by the Falls . Kings Mountain, NC  (704) 739-7331

The Meaning of the Red Rose: Love & Romance

Aug19

So often we think about the type of flower, how it looks and smells. Maybe even just the price alone is what we are concerned with, but do we think about the meaning? When at the florist, why are we even buying the flowers and what are we trying to say? The type of flower itself says a lot, and a rose embodies a wealth of significance. It is ultimately a symbol of love.

Red roses in particular have a primary significance of love, romance and passion. They were first introduced to Europe from China in the 1800’s, and have been expressed throughout history in numerous works of art, from classical paintings and poetry to modern day music and drama.

In Christian love, a rose bush grew at the site of Christ’s death on the cross. His blood is often associated with a red rose, combined with its thorns symbolizes the ultimate sacrifice.

Some of the earliest cultures often decorated wedding ceremonies with red roses. So they became known as a symbol for love and fidelity, as we see here at this beautiful red rose inspired wedding in Oahu, Hawaii http://www.oahuwedding.com/2007/12/inspired-by-rose-winter-wedding.html. As the custom of exchanging roses and flowers as gifts of affection continued, the red rose naturally became the preferred flower to send the strongest message of love.

Meanings of the Red Rose Include: Love, Romance, Beauty, Passion, Desire, Admiration, Immortal Love, Health, Memorial, Courage, Respect, Power, and Sacrifice.

Flowers by the Falls . Kings Mountain, NC  (704) 739-7331