While we may be in the depths of winter there are still some hardy flowers that bloom, meaning that your home can be full of spring ahead of time. These winter-flowering plants are both cheerful to look at and easy to grow.

Crab cacti

Also known as Christmas cacti, these colorful plants flower in winter. Crab cacti are recognized by the brightly colored blooms that appear at the end of their stems. The flowers are usually red, pink, purple or white. As the plant usually blooms during the Christmas season, it is also called a holiday cactus.

Crab cacti are easy to grow and do not need much watering; you test to see if their soil is moist by touching the top. If it feels dry, you need to water your plant. But, never give it to too much water as this can cause root rot.

African violets

Native to eastern Africa, African violets thrive in comfortable indoor temperatures. The plant's pretty purple or pink blooms are definitely cheering to look at.

The plant is easy to grow. Provide African violets with bright and indirect light, and be sure not to splash their foliage with water. This can be done by putting the plant in a tray full of water, or watering if from the bottom up. These techniques can prevent the plant from getting foliage spots.

Amaryllis

The Amaryllis is a bulbous plant. Its bulb produces leafless stems that bear clusters of two to twelve trumpet-shaped flowers at the top. Its flowers are large and usually red, pink or orange. If you want some color in your home, there's nothing better than these bright blooms to lift your spirits in the dead of winter.

About 'Gardening Tips'

"Gardening Tips" is a series of articles featuring information on how to take care of plants.

For more tips, check here:

Five plants that can bring you luck in the new year

Guzmania conifera: A vibrant flower that dies after flowering

Garden phlox: Showy and sweet

Tips for succulent care during winter

10 hardy succulents perfect for winter

How to encourage a cactus to flower

Red flowers that can make your day

Alluring plants that don't need much sunlight

Lovely plants for busy people

Pretty plants that only need water to bloom

Best flowers for dried arrangements

Tips to take care of cut roses

Beautiful plants that scare mosquitoes

Climbing plants to add charm to your garden

The mysterious black flowers

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