Botanical Guide to Focal Flowers for a Flower Bouquet
Focal flowers are the stars of any bouquet, drawing the eye and establishing a visual centre. When selecting focal flowers, consider their size, colour, and texture, as they significantly influence the overall design. Here is a Singapore Florist guide to some popular focal flowers that can elevate your floral arrangements.
1. Roses
Varieties:
Hybrid Tea Roses: Iconic for their large, perfectly formed blooms, available in almost every colour. Ideal for classic arrangements.
David Austin Roses: Known for their lush, ruffled petals and strong fragrance, offering a vintage charm.
Characteristics:
Size: 5-12 cm diameter
Longevity: 5-7 days
2. Peonies
Varieties:
Garden Peonies: Renowned for their full, rounded blooms and soft petals. They create a romantic feel.
Itoh Hybrids: A cross between tree and herbaceous peonies, offering a unique colour palette and resilience.
Characteristics:
Size: 10-15 cm diameter
Longevity: 5-10 days
3. Lilies
Varieties:
Oriental Lilies: Known for their large, fragrant blooms, available in vibrant colours. Perfect for an elegant touch.
Asiatic Lilies: Early bloomers with bright, cheerful colours and sturdy stems.
Characteristics:
Size: 10-20 cm diameter
Longevity: 7-10 days
4. Sunflowers
Variety:
Helianthus annuus: The classic sunflower is cheerful and bold, making it an excellent choice for a bright, sunny bouquet.
Characteristics:
Size: 15-25 cm diameter
Longevity: 5-10 days
5. Tulips
Varieties:
Darwin Hybrid Tulips: Known for their sturdy stems and large blooms; offer a long-lasting display.
Parrot Tulips: Unique, fringed petals that add texture and flair.
Characteristics:
Size: 8-10 cm diameter
Longevity: 5-7 days
6. Dahlias
Varieties:
Cactus Dahlias: Spiky, textured petals that add a unique shape to arrangements.
Ball Dahlias: Rounded blooms that provide a full appearance, ideal for compact designs.
Characteristics:
Size: 10-20 cm diameter
Longevity: 5-7 days
7. Orchids
Varieties:
Phalaenopsis Orchids: Elegant and long-lasting, perfect for a touch of luxury in any bouquet.
Dendrobium Orchids: Known for their vibrant colours and delicate appearance.
Characteristics:
Size: 5-10 cm diameter
Longevity: 7-14 days
Tips for Choosing Focal Flowers
Seasonality: Opt for flowers that are in season to ensure freshness and availability.
Colour Palette: Choose focal flowers that complement your desired colour scheme for cohesiveness.
Texture: Incorporate varied textures by combining smooth petals with ruffled or spiky varieties.
Selecting the right focal flowers is essential for creating an appealing bouquet. By understanding the characteristics and visual impact of each flower, you can craft arrangements that are not only beautiful but also memorable.
