Flowering flowers

Common names: bromeliad, urn plant, flaming sword

Description: These foliage plants have central floral spikes up to 2 feet tall and 8- to 10-inch long spiny-edged leaves that form a cup that can hold water. In some species, the flower has waxy, colored leaves. Other species send up an actual inflorescence. These plants bloom six weeks to four months, depending on variety.

Special care: Drench dry soil and fertilize monthly. Drain excess water. Keep the central cups of foliage filled with water, but change it weekly. Keep plants in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves.

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Common names: lisianthus, eustoma

Description: These long-lasting flowers have four wide ruffled, delicate petals and oval leaves. Colors include white, light and dark pink, lavender, deep purple, and bicolors. Double- and single-flower varieties exist. Vase life is seven to 10 days. Read the rest of this entry »

Common names: gladiolus, glad, gladioli

Description: Tall, tightly packed spikes of six to eight blossoms open in sequence from the bottom. The 2- to 8-inch-wide florets bloom in one direction with sword shaped foliage on stems. Gladiolus lend itself to almost any type of style from the use of a full stem to provide height to a tall arrangement or individual florets for corsage and wedding work. Gladiolus last seven to 10 days and are available in a wide variety of colors including white, green, cream, yellow, buff, orange, salmon, pink, red, lavender, purple, blue and terra cotta Read the rest of this entry »

These bouquets are inspired by unconventional ideas, styles and patterns and are designed with no specific geometric form. They are usually created with flowers that have definite form and add character to a bouquet (such as calla lilies, orchids and anthuriums). Contemporary bouquets represent the individuality of the bride and are perfect for a sophisticated, cosmopolitan style wedding. They’re simplistic but have the added grace of asymmetrical design.

Flowers Featured: roses, tulips, mini callas, star of Bethelehem, veronica

Common names: lily, Asiatic lily, Oriental lily

Description: Trumpet-shaped flowers grow to a 6-inch diameter. Stems grow to 3 feet long, carrying four to eight blossoms. Sparse foliage is dark green. Because blooms open at various times, most lilies live one to two weeks. Colors include white, yellow, pink, red and orange; many have a deeper color (freckles) on the inner petal.

Special care: To prevent pollen from staining petals or clothing, remove stamens.

Attention Cat Lovers: According to the ASPCA, lilies are considered to be highly toxic to cats. While the poisonous component has not yet been identified, it is clear that with even ingestions of very small amounts of the plant, severe kidney damage could result. The Society of American Florists recommends keeping lilies out of the reach of cats. It is important to note that lilies do not pose a problem for other pets or humans. Read the rest of this entry »