The tulip (from the genus Tulipa) is one of the most cultivated
flowers in the world as it is distributed from Southern Europe to
Africa to Asia. Most of its hybrids are grown in pots and are a popular
fresh-cut flowers. Although the Dutch are the usual suspects when it
comes to breeding the species, the first commercial cultivation of the
plant actually happened in Iran.
Waling-Waling
The waling-waling (Euanthe sanderiana, originally named Vanda sanderiana)
is so beautiful it is considered the Philippines' Queen of Flowers. The
species is endemic to Mindanao in the Philippines and comes in pink and
white forms. It belongs to the orchid family.
White Lotus
The white lotus (Nymphaea lotus) is called the Egyptian white waterlily or the tiger lotus. The species comes from the Nymphaeaceae
family and grows in various parts of Southerast Asia and East Africa.
The blossoms float on water with the support of its lily pads. The white
lotus is also a popural pond and aquarium plant
Dendrobium is a large genus of tropical orchids that
include over a thousand species. The sprays of flowers are so delicate and
yet so perfectly formed, they appear magical.
Ixora flowers, also commonly called West Indian Jasmine,
are often used in Hindu worship, as well as in Indian folk medicine. This
plant has traditionally been associated with enhanced sexuality and the
re-kindling of passion. Who wouldn't want that as a gift!
Begonia
The first Begonia was introduced into England in 1777.
Now one of the most popular flowers grown in the United States, Begonias
are prized for their flowers as well as their leaves. This versatile
plant can be grown either inside or out.
This perennial poppy has a delicate and striking color.
After flowering in the spring, their foliage dies back entirely, only to
grow new leaves once again with the autumn rains. The Oriental Poppy is
the flower of The Wizard of Oz.
These plants are native to the Old World tropics, from
West Africa through the Indian sub-continent, Southeast Asia and into southern
China. The beautiful red and yellow petals are a real showstopper. A favorite
of not only of gardeners, but also butterflies, bees and hummingbirds.
Roses are one of the most romantic and wonderfully scented
of flowers. The giving of roses is steeped in tradition and cultural meaning,
from the yellow rose of friendship to the deep red rose of true love.
These delicate flowers, with their pink and yellow petals,
are butterfly magnets. The bush can grow to be quite large and the color
of the petals change as the plant ages. Beware - Lantana is considered a
weed by many that is quite difficult to get rid of.
Bleeding Heart
These whimsical, almost fairy-like blossoms are a traditional
favorite in shady gardens. The flowers are either red, pink or white and
appear in April-June.
While visually stunning and elegant, this beautiful flower
is actually a member the poisonous species, Zantedeschia. All parts of the
plant are highly toxic, with the capability to kill livestock and
children if ingested.
A delicate and fragrant sign of spring, the Lily of the
Valley has inspired a number of legends. One such Christian legend explains
that the tears that Mary shed at the cross turned to Lilies of the Valley,
prompting the flower to sometimes be referred to as "Our Lady's Tears."
Another legend tells of Lilies of the Valley springing from the blood of
St. George during his battle with the dragon.
Hydrangea
Magical snowball puffs in fall: gorgeous. The clusters of star-shaped blossoms, often found in delicate pastel hues, embody innocence. They are popular in wedding bouquets and as garden flowers.
Growing high in the Rocky Mountains, the Colorado Columbine
is a welcome reward for the enterprising climbers of Colorado's 14,000-foot
high mountains.
The unofficial flower of Japan, the spectacular display
of blossoms that arrive in the spring are celebrated by festivals both in
Japan and the U.S. The most popular colors are white and pink. They are
beautiful while on the trees and remain a stunning sight even after carpeting
the ground.
Cannas not only feature pretty blossoms, but also beautiful
leaves (often likened to that of the banana plant) that come in a variety
of stunning colors. Popularized in Victorian times, Cannas are popular garden
plants.