Top 6 Winter Flowers in South Africa

Just because its winter does not mean people have to stop enjoying flowers. Life would be a little less beautiful without the addition of some blossoms to brighter up your day during the months of June and July.

In South Africa we are fortunate enough to have a wide variety of winter blossoming flowers available and here we’ll look at some of the most popular ones.

Gladioulus

This genus contains approximately 260 species, most of which are to be found in sub-Saharan African and South Africa. This means that locally, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to colours and varietals. They are equally beautiful in a vase as part of an arrangement, or in your garden.

Antirrhinum

Commonly referred to as Snapdragons – due to the shape of their flowers – it is a popular choice of bloom for the colder times of the year. They are available in a range of shapes and colours.

Rhododendron

This Asian flower species is also found locally. Popular colours include white, red, pink and purple.

Protea

Our national flower has become extremely popular in recent years and is frequently used at special occasions. They can also be enjoyed in the countryside of the Western Cape and Limpopo, to mention two areas.

Strelitzia

Another native of the Rainbow Nation, it is made up of five different species. It is also known locally as the “Crane Flower” and has a very distinctive petals of orange and blue. It is an eye catching addition to any garden.

Rose

Perhaps one of the most enduring signs of love, nothing quite says it like a beautiful red rose. They are available in a number of colours, shapes and sizes, not to mention their fantastic perfume scent.

Lobelia

These lovely delicate flowers can be found in a number of different colours and flower in large numbers. The blooms also come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes.

We’ve barely touched the surface of all the available species, but rest assured, you’re spoilt for choice no matter what the season. And once winter moves on, you’ll get to look forward to the fresh spring blossoms.

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Tips and Tricks for Keeping Your Flowers Fresh

A stunning flower arrangement in your house is something worth trying to make last as long as possible. Depending on where you live and the local climate, it can become tricky keeping your flowers fresh and beautiful.

Fortunately, there exists a number of tips and tricks for keeping your bouquets looking as good as new.

• Add a copper coin to the water – Copper oxide is a natural fungicide and many people swear by adding a few coins into their vases to prevent fungi from forming in the water.
• Dissolve sugar into water – This is a popular choice for many people.  It is thought that the sugar acts as a substitute for sucrose that is formed during photosynthesis. One spoon of sugar will be fine.
• Aspirin – This common medicine is an acid which prevents bacteria from forming around the cut part of the stem. In turn, this is said to help reduce the wilting of flowers. Crush one tablet and mix it with water before adding your flowers.
• Add lemon juice to the water – This is a natural acid and thus has the same effect has aspirin. All that’s needed is two table spoons and you’re good to go.
• Recut the stems every day or two – Every moment the flower spends in water, the stem starts closing up progressively. By re-cutting the stem, you ensure that the uptake of water by the flower is maintained. Cuts should be made at 45 degree angles.
• Remove all the leaves and foliage below the waterline.
• Change the water regularly – A dose of fresh water will help contribute to keeping your flowers pretty for longer.

If you follow a few of these suggestions, you might find that your stunning blossoms keep you smiling a bit longer than usual.

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