Colored Calla Lilies

In my 30 plus years in the floral business I have seen many trends of species of flowers become popular. I remember the beginning of certain popular rose trends such as the oceana, leonida, black magic and the black baccara roses. The hydrangea trend brought new colors and hybrids such as lime green to help the longevity of the popularity of the hydrangea. The booming cymbidium orchid trend in rich colors of green, brown and burgundy seems will never lose their popularity and longevity (unless, of course the price keeps going up).

Another popular flower trend with longevity is the colored calla lily craze. There are so many properties of the calla lily that I love! They are very sexy, chic and modern. The colors are endless - while I fawn over the charcoal black of the schwartzwalder calla and the tangerine/rust colored treasure calla, I can never pick just a couple of favorites; I also love crystal blush (ivory), neroli (apricot) and red sox (red)! It is the start of the peak season (August to May) to buy colored calla lilies; both New Zealand and the Northern Coastal towns are harvesting intense beauties.

With their urban and architectural properties they can make a modern twist to any floral piece you may create. They are chic if designed as all one flower in a slick shaped vessel or combined with brilliant blooms. Either way they are gorgeous! Enjoy - Kimm

Summertime Dahlias

In late summertime dahlias are my favorite floral variety. The history of the dahlia stretches back to the 18th century. There are 36 different species of dahlias but they all have similar characteristics. Dahlias are charismatic, alluring, beautiful, vibrant, friendly and intense to the eye. They come in many colors, shapes, and petal counts. The largest of the species are called "Dinner Plate" dahlias. They are stunning in their size and brilliance.

Dahlias are an irresistible element to use in my floral designs, especially when using different colors and shapes. I generally will only use a minimum of three colors in my designs, however, with dahlias I will use a variety of hues.

At the Velvet Garden we have special vendors that grow and propagate dinner plate dahlias. They are fantastic! My clients marvel at their properties and color palettes that range from pristine white, blush and cafe au lait to hot pink, red, orange, salmon and deep burgundy. The Japanese translation for dahlia is "good taste", I agree with this translation and hope you do as well.