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Mixed bouquets of alstroemerias, gerbera daisies, chrysanthemums and carnations are popular because of their artistic beauty and lasting elegance. Today, tulips have become one of the most sought-after cut flowers. They come in a wide range of colours and are very reasonably priced. We’re fortunate to have excellent tulip growers in B.C.
Indoor tropical plants are certainly trendy, and flowering tropicals are a big part of that interest. Beautiful, easy-care anthuriums are some of the finest flowering plants. From traditional red to pure white, pink, burgundy, lavender and orange, their heart-shaped blooms are so appropriate at this time of year. A new variety, called ‘Livium’, has stunning red and white flowers and has won numerous awards in Europe.
As for other plants, azaleas, cyclamens, begonias and kalanchoes are in good supply. Potted miniature roses have also become a favourite for Valentine’s Day. Bred for indoor conditions, they come in a wide range of colours, and once spring arrives, they can go in the garden for blooms all summer. The only fragrant mini-rose, a pink variety from Kordes in Germany called ‘RosAroma’, is one of today’s ‘hotties’ — it can be a little hard to find, but it’s out there.
Although indoor conditions for succulents aren’t the best at this time of year, resilient varieties, like haworthias, jades and aloe veras stand up well. Two philodendrons, ‘Swiss Cheese’ and P. birkin, also make great Valentine’s gifts.
For smaller gifts, there are lots of locally grown options, such as exciting new perennials, like ‘Coco’ primulas, double-flowered ranunculus and lots of potted bulbs that are much treasured as table or windowsill charmers. Miniature cyclamens, azaleas and kalanchoes in tiny pots are inexpensive and cheerful.
We have a week to ponder who in our circle of relationships might really appreciate a floral gift. This year, above all other years, it could mean more than you might imagine and truly brighten someone’s spirits.
