Christmas Traditions: Christmas Plants
Do you have Christmas plants in your home, or did you receive Christmas plants as a Christmas gift, for example on your birthday in December? There are many types of Christmas plants suitable for making the living room cozy, such as amaryllis, holly, mistletoe, skimmia, and poinsettia. Do you know what these plants look like?
Amaryllis (Hippeastrum)
Amaryllis is a genus of bulbous plants in the daffodil family (Amaryllidaceae), which is endemic to South Africa. The genus is named after a shepherdess from the idylls of the Greek writer Theocritus and a pastoral by the Roman writer Virgil.
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The genus was originally conceived much more broadly by Carl Linnaeus than it is today. In the early 20th century, the genus was restricted to the belladonna lily (Amaryllis belladonna). In the plant trade, the name is still used more broadly, particularly for species of the South American genus Hippeastrum. In 1998, a second species was described: Amaryllis paradisicola.
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Amaryllis is a typical Christmas flower because it naturally blooms in winter, with large, colorful flowers that bring warmth and atmosphere to a dark December month. The blooming period coincides perfectly with the holidays (October-April), and the vibrant colors (red, white, pink) match the Christmas spirit, while the flower symbolizes beauty, strength, hope, and love.
Hulst (Ilex)
Holly usually grows as a shrub but can also develop into a tree. It is a slow-growing species that can reach a height of just over 10 m. The average age is around 100 years old. The leathery leaves of holly are toothed and covered with spines. Holly is a dioecious plant. The flowers on the male plant are yellowish; the flowers on the female plant are smaller and rather white. The flowering period runs from May into June.
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The natural distribution area of holly extends across western and southern Europe, northwestern Africa, and southwestern Asia. In the Benelux, holly is the only native evergreen deciduous tree. Holly is used in hedges. The plant tolerates shade well. Many cultivars have been developed, which are propagated by cuttings.
Both the leaves and the berries are often used in Christmas arrangements. The wood is used for furniture and inlay work. The young leaves can be picked and dried in June. Tea brewed from these leaves has fever-reducing and diuretic effects. Holly is protected in certain areas.
Application: Branches are widely used in Christmas wreaths and floral arrangements.
Shelf life: Branches in water remain beautiful for an average of 7 to 21 days. Note: the berries are toxic to humans and pets, but an important food source for birds.
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Mistletoe
Mistletoe is a popular evergreen Christmas ornament with white berries, known for the tradition of kissing under it for good luck, love, and fertility, originating from ancient myths about protection and fertility, and popularized by British and American Christmas traditions. You hang it upside down, often with a red ribbon, and it symbolizes peace and love during the winter period.
Meaning & Traditions
- Love and Happiness: Kissing under the mistletoe brings luck to the relationship and symbolizes love.
- Fertility: The plant has been associated with fertility for centuries.
- Ancient Myths: In Norse mythology, it was a sacred plant, and the Druids used it for its magical powers.
Use & Decoration
- Christmas decoration: Hangs as decoration above doors, in doorways, or incorporated into Christmas wreaths.
- Hanging: Traditionally upside down on a ribbon (often red).
Things worth knowing
- Semi-parasite: Mistletoe grows on other trees, while the leaves and berries remain green in winter, which gave it a unique significance in dark times.
- Toxic: The berries are not meant for consumption; the leaves and stems are poisonous and can cause illness.
- Care: Keep branches cool and moist, and spray with water occasionally to keep them beautiful for longer.
Where are the Christmas tree and the poinsettia in the blog? I have written about both before and refer you to my Christmas Traditions archive. There you will find both topics, and the poinsettia even twice.
That would be a beautiful theme for the December stamps 2026!