Using "amaryllis" flowers in arrangements

Amaryllis have hollow stems and you need to take certain steps if using them as cut flowers. Even if just putting some in a vase on the table, you’ll need to wrap the bottom of the stem with water-proof florist tape (available at wholesale florists or craft stores) or the stem will split and curl up. If you are using long stems in a large arrangement, put a wooden dowel inside the stem for strength and to guard against the stem breaking, and again tape the bottom. Use your finger or some other implement to make the right size hole in the oasis – don’t push that easily broken hollow stem itself or it will break. If you somehow knock a flower off, it will stay fresh for hours – use it as a decoration on a dessert tray or by a place card for a special guest.