Top 11 Traditional Christmas Flowers16 December 2025This article explores the most traditional Christmas flowers and plants found across the UK, helping homeowners and gift-givers choose the best blooms for festive décor, table settings, and thoughtful presents. It’s perfect for anyone looking to bring seasonal warmth and classic beauty into their celebrations through meaningful floral traditions. Learn how to style, display, and share these festive favourites. Contents: Best Christmas Flowers and Plants How to Use Christmas Flowers in Your Home Why Flowers Are a Must at Christmas Gifting Christmas Flowers Key Takeaways for Traditional Christmas Flowers Best Christmas Flowers and Plants The festive season is a time to fill your home with colour, warmth, and meaning, and few things capture the spirit of Christmas like its traditional flowers and plants. From vivid reds and lush greens to delicate whites and fragrant herbs, these blooms have long been cherished symbols of hope, love, and celebration. [Browse our Online Store] Poinsettias Poinsettias are perhaps the most recognisable of all Christmas flowers, known for their bold red and green leaves that instantly evoke the festive spirit. Native to Mexico, they’ve become a holiday favourite across the UK, often used in living rooms, window displays, and gift arrangements. Beyond their striking beauty, poinsettias are also symbolic of good cheer and success, making them a thoughtful choice for seasonal gifting. When cared for properly, by keeping them away from draughts and ensuring the soil stays moist, they can thrive throughout the entire holiday period. Holly With its glossy green leaves and bright red berries, holly has deep roots in Christmas tradition. It symbolises protection and good fortune and is often woven into wreaths, garlands, and festive centrepieces to bring a touch of timeless charm. In folklore, holly was thought to ward off evil spirits and invite blessings into the home. It pairs beautifully with ivy or pine, making it a versatile element for natural, rustic holiday décor. Mistletoe Mistletoe carries romantic and symbolic value, representing love, unity, and blessings. Traditionally hung in doorways, it adds both greenery and tradition to the home while inviting a little seasonal affection. The custom of kissing under the mistletoe dates back to ancient Norse mythology, where it was seen as a symbol of peace and reconciliation. Today, it remains a charming tradition that brings families and couples together during the holidays. Christmas Rose The Christmas Rose, or Helleborus niger, is a beautiful winter flower that blossoms even in the coldest months. Its soft white petals are said to symbolise purity and hope, making it a meaningful addition to any holiday floral display. Legend has it that the Christmas Rose first bloomed from the tears of a young girl who had no gift to give the Christ child, making it a poignant symbol of love and humility. It’s perfect for adding a delicate touch of serenity to Christmas arrangements. Amaryllis Known for its tall stems and trumpet-shaped blooms, amaryllis adds elegance and drama to Christmas décor. Available in shades of red, white, and pink, it’s perfect for centrepieces or as a statement plant on a mantel or dining table. Symbolising strength and beauty, amaryllis flowers make a stunning focal point for festive floral displays. Their long-lasting nature means they’ll stay vibrant well into the New Year, offering enduring colour and charm. Red Roses Red roses aren’t just for Valentine’s Day, they’re also a stunning Christmas flower. Their deep crimson tones pair beautifully with evergreens and gold accents, symbolising love, warmth, and festive passion. Roses can elevate any Christmas bouquet, adding romance and richness to your décor. Pair them with pinecones, holly, or white flowers for a luxurious holiday arrangement. Christmas Cactus The Christmas cactus is a hardy indoor plant that bursts into bloom during the holiday season. Its delicate pink, red, or white flowers bring long-lasting beauty, making it ideal for both decoration and gifting. Native to Brazil, this succulent thrives in humid environments and low-light, making it an excellent choice for indoor displays. It symbolises resilience and lasting friendship, making it a meaningful plant to share with loved ones. Rosemary Fragrant and symbolic, rosemary represents remembrance and friendship. During Christmas, it can be used in wreaths, table decorations, or even given as a living gift to spread festive cheer. Its pine-like aroma fills a room with freshness and nostalgia, while its evergreen sprigs perfectly complement other seasonal plants. Rosemary also adds a culinary twist; snip a few sprigs to enhance your Christmas dinner or festive cocktails. Cyclamen Cyclamen blooms during winter, adding splashes of pink, red, or white to indoor settings. Its heart-shaped leaves and resilient nature make it a symbol of love and devotion throughout the season. Originating from the Mediterranean, cyclamen is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in cooler indoor temperatures. It’s a wonderful gift choice for those who appreciate subtle beauty and long-lasting blooms. Red Begonia Red begonias bring brightness and life to Christmas displays with their vivid flowers and lush foliage. Perfect for tabletops or windowsills, they offer a cheerful contrast to traditional greenery. Begonias also symbolise harmony and gratitude, making them ideal for spreading positive energy in the home. Pair them with gold-toned pots or candlelight to create a warm, festive ambience. Ivy Ivy is a classic evergreen that symbolises eternal life, faithfulness, and connection. Its lush green vines represent continuity through winter’s chill and everlasting love. Whether trailing through wreaths or used as table runners, ivy adds graceful texture and natural elegance to Christmas décor. It pairs beautifully with holly, pine, and berries for a timeless woodland look and thrives both indoors and outdoors. Its enduring greenery serves as a gentle reminder of hope and togetherness throughout the festive season. How to Use Christmas Flowers in Your Home Transform your home into a festive haven with these creative ways to use Christmas flowers and plants: Wreaths: Combine holly, ivy, and rosemary for a traditional front-door welcome that embodies the spirit of Christmas. Table Centrepieces: Use poinsettias, amaryllis, or red roses to craft vibrant centrepieces that become the heart of your festive dining space. Garlands: Drape ivy and mistletoe along mantels or staircases to add a natural, elegant touch. Window Displays: Arrange cyclamen or red begonias in pots to brighten window sills and spread festive colour both inside and out. Mantel Decorations: Pair Christmas cactus with evergreens and candles for a cosy, glowing holiday feel. Kitchen Accents: Add rosemary sprigs to jars or vases for a fragrant and simple seasonal detail. Each arrangement not only enhances your décor but also fills your home with the warmth and fragrance of traditional Christmas cheer. [Browse our Online Store] Why Flowers Are a Must at Christmas Flowers hold a special place in Christmas traditions, symbolising joy, renewal, and the beauty of nature during the coldest time of year. Their vibrant colours and soft fragrances create a welcoming atmosphere, transforming any space into a festive retreat. Christmas flowers such as poinsettias, holly, and amaryllis evoke cherished memories and convey heartfelt emotions, making gatherings feel more meaningful. These festive blooms also connect us to centuries-old customs, when evergreens and winter flowers were used to celebrate hope and light amid the season’s darkness. Whether displayed in a grand centrepiece or a simple vase on the windowsill, traditional Christmas flowers bring warmth, comfort, and a touch of magic that no holiday celebration should be without. Gifting Christmas Flowers Gifting Christmas flowers is a timeless way to share the warmth and beauty of the season with loved ones, colleagues, or neighbours. Each flower carries its own symbolism, making your choice deeply personal and meaningful: Poinsettias: Representing celebration and goodwill, these are perfect for gifting to brighten homes or offices. Amaryllis: Symbolising pride and beauty, ideal for elegant or formal gifts. Christmas Cactus: A low-maintenance bloom that lasts, symbolising resilience and endurance—great for long-distance gifts. Cyclamen: Associated with love and sincerity, this plant makes a thoughtful present for family or close friends. Rosemary or Holly Sprigs: Perfect small tokens that bring fragrance and festivity to any space. When gifting Christmas flowers, consider presentation: choose festive wrapping, add a handwritten card, or pair with candles or ornaments for an extra special touch. Whether delivered as a surprise or presented in person, these blooms spread joy, gratitude, and festive spirit to everyone who receives them. For a truly meaningful gift, visit Julie’s Flowers in Gosforth or our new store in Cleadon Village. Both locations offer beautifully arranged traditional Christmas flowers and plants, perfect for spreading joy and festive spirit across Tyne and Wear and beyond. [Browse our Online Store] Key Takeaways for Traditional Christmas Flowers Traditional Christmas flowers such as poinsettias, holly, mistletoe, and ivy bring warmth, colour, and meaning to festive décor. Each flower carries unique symbolism—from love and hope to remembrance and joy—making them perfect for both decoration and gifting. Poinsettias and amaryllis are striking centrepiece choices, while holly and ivy add natural texture and timeless charm to wreaths and garlands. Fragrant herbs like rosemary enhance both the scent and sentiment of Christmas, symbolising remembrance and friendship. Gifting flowers such as cyclamen, Christmas cactus, or red roses allows you to share festive beauty and emotion with loved ones. Incorporating these blooms into your home spreads seasonal cheer and celebrates centuries-old traditions of hope, renewal, and togetherness. For a truly special festive touch, choose locally arranged Christmas flowers from Julie’s Flowers in Gosforth or the new store in Cleadon Village, where each design captures the warmth and elegance of the season. FAQs What is the traditional Christmas flower? The poinsettia is widely recognised as the most traditional Christmas flower, symbolising joy, celebration, and goodwill. Its vibrant red and green leaves perfectly reflect the festive colours of the season. Originating from Mexico, the poinsettia has become a cherished part of Christmas décor across the UK, often used in table centrepieces, wreaths, and gift arrangements. What is a traditional Christmas wreath? A traditional Christmas wreath is made using evergreen foliage such as holly, ivy, and pine, representing eternal life and the continuity of nature through winter. These natural materials are often decorated with berries, ribbons, and sometimes candles or dried fruit to add festive warmth. The circular shape of the wreath symbolises unity, eternity, and the never-ending cycle of the seasons. What flower symbolises Christmas? Several blooms are known to symbolise Christmas, but the Christmas Rose and poinsettia are the most significant. The Christmas Rose (Helleborus niger) symbolises purity and hope, while the poinsettia embodies good cheer and success. Together, they represent the spirit of giving, renewal, and light during the festive season. How do I keep my poinsettia alive after Christmas? To keep your poinsettia alive after Christmas, place it in a bright, warm room away from drafts or direct heat. Water only when the top inch of soil feels dry, as overwatering can cause the roots to rot. With proper care, poinsettias can last for months—and if pruned and fed regularly, they may even bloom again next Christmas. What is a Christmas Rose called? The Christmas Rose is scientifically known as Helleborus niger, a hardy winter flower that blooms in the coldest months. It’s known for its delicate white petals and long-lasting charm, symbolising hope and peace during the festive season. It’s often used in winter gardens and Christmas arrangements as a reminder of purity and resilience. What does it mean if someone gives you a poinsettia? Receiving a poinsettia as a gift symbolises goodwill, joy, and festive blessings. Traditionally, it’s seen as a gesture of friendship and holiday cheer. In many cultures, giving a poinsettia during Christmas is believed to bring prosperity and happiness to the recipient’s home throughout the season. Bring Christmas to Life with Julie’s Flowers Traditional Christmas flowers and plants bring timeless beauty, warmth, and meaning to every festive celebration. From the classic poinsettia and Christmas rose to elegant amaryllis and fragrant rosemary, these blooms help you create a home filled with colour, comfort, and the true spirit of the season. Whether you’re decorating your home, gifting loved ones, or simply spreading festive cheer, Julie’s Flowers is here to make your Christmas extra special. Order your traditional Christmas flowers online today from Julie’s Flowers in Gosforth or our new store in Cleadon Village. We offer same-day delivery before 2pm across Newcastle, from Gosforth to Tynemouth, and Sunderland, from Cleadon Village to South Shields so you can share festive beauty and joy exactly when it matters most. [Browse our Online Store] Related Articles Top 7 Things to Do and See in Cleadon Village All Year Round Flowers for Your Home in Cleadon Village Our Ultimate Guide to Caring for Your Flowers Properly