Archive for the ‘Summer’ Category

Violet

February is a big month in the floral world, with Valentine’s Day putting flowers on people’s minds. However it is the lovely Violet that is the flower for February. The Violet symbolizes loyalty, faithfulness and wisdom and is the perfect flower to give to someone to let them know you’ll always be there.

Known for their heart-shaped leaves and five delicate petals, Violets traditionally come in shades of purple but are also seen in blues, yellow and whites. The colour of the Violet changes its significance: The blue and purple Violets symbolizes love and faithfulness. The white Violet represents purity, while the yellow shows high worth and goodness.

Used by the Ancient Romans as medicinal herbs, Violets can be eaten raw or cooked and are often used in desserts and as plating decoration.

The Australian native Violet and the African Violet are the two most popular varieties. They grow well in most areas of the country and bloom in the warmer months.

Potted violets make an ideal indoor plant, preferring a cool, shady spot away from direct sunlight, these pretty flowers provide a pop of colour and need minimal care.

Jump onto our Instagram for loads of inspiration: https://www.instagram.com/melbourneflorist/

And browse our lovely website: https://richmondflorist.com.au/

Native

Native Australian flowers are so visually striking and full of deep colours. They have a distinct appearance and properties, and they are perfect in the hot Australian climate. Native Australian flora is a unique group because of its age and isolation from the rest of the world. Native plant species in Australia reach around 24,000. Here are a few:

The Waratah is native particularly to southeastern Australia, found on the Central Coast and the South Coast as well as nearby ranges. The large flowers are actually individual flowers that are grouped in rounded heads. They are usually red but can be pink or white as well.

Kangaroo Paw plants only occur naturally in the southwest of Western Australia. The size, flower-height and colour varies depending on the variety and species. They are a large, velvety and vividly coloured red or green flower with no fragrance and a sturdy stem – ideal for birds.

The Banksia has over 170 varieties, but is distinguishable by the flowery spikes and conical shapes. You will find these beauties in rainforests, shrub lands and arid landscapes. The Banksia flower is filled with nectar and plays an important role among the bees and animals.

Eucalyptuses, commonly known as Gum Trees, have long thin green leaves and a crisp, fresh scent. Eucalyptus is an iconic tree in Australian flora, and the oil is widely used in aromatherapy.

The vibrant red Bottlebrush grows on bushy trees in sunny, dry areas. There are over 40 species of Bottlebrushes, featuring colours such as yellow, white, red, pink and orange.

The Golden Wattle is Australia’s national flower and even has its own day, being September 1st. When in flower, the wattle displays the colours of green and gold. It is a symbol of unity and prosperity.

If you love the look of our native flora, some flowers you could seek for your native bunch could include: Proteas, Blue Gums, Kangaroo Paw, Gumnuts, Leucodendren, Banksia, Eucalyptus Buds, or Inca Gold. Visit our website for a browse: https://richmondflorist.com.au/ Or our Instagram for some inspiration: https://www.instagram.com/melbourneflorist/ And come in and chat to our lovely florists for some more tips!

Carnation

The carnation is the birth flower for January, cultivated for its ruffled blooms and favoured for their fragrance and hardiness. The scientific name for a carnation is “Dianthus Caryophyllus”, a Greek word meaning “flower of the Gods”. Carnations carry the meaning of love, fascination and distinction.

Like many flowers, the colour also contributes to differing meanings. Red carnations symbolize passionate love while yellow means disdain, rejection or disappointment. A white carnation carries the meaning of innocence and pure love and a purple flower is whimsical and capricious.

Over 300 species of carnations and hybrids exist, and the flower has been cultivated over the last two centuries within Asia and Europe. Carnations are exotic in Australia but they are grown commercially. Originally, they were grown in the Mediterranean where the Greeks and Romans used them for crowning garlands during important ceremonies.

Carnations are considered an edible flower and the petals are a popular choice for cake decorators. The flower has also been used in the making of the French Liquor Chartreuse since the 17th century, and they are also used to decorate ice cubes and bring flavour to certain salads.

For more floral inspiration, visit our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melbourneflorist/ And Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/richmondflorist/ Or come and visit our lovely florists for a beautiful bunch!