| Larkspur: These vibrantly colored blossoms appear along tall green spikes. They are available in white, pink and blue, with some varieties having an overlay of a second color, such as yellow. Larkspur blooms in early to mid-summer, and the leaves are soft green to bright green. Some dwarf varieties grow to only 18 inches high, and certain strains reach eight feet in height.
Laurel: Dark green leaves of a shrub that are used as greenery in bouquets and table arrangements. Available year-round.
Lavender: A fragrant mauve flower with dusty green leaves. Its buds grow in the shape of small cones. Lavender is available in several varieties and is a wonderful fragrant addition to any bouquet. Tiny pots of lavender are sometimes used as guest favors.
Lemon Leaf: Leaves of the lemon tree add a bright green touch to bouquets and arrangements. They are hearty and long-lasting, with the bonus of a wonderful citrus scent.
Lilac: Usually available in white or lavender. Sturdy wooden stalks with many tiny flowers. This wonderfully fragrant flower is only available for a brief period in the spring.
Lily: Usually white or cream with tinges of pink or lavender. There are many varieties of lilies, with stargazers and calla lilies being those most commonly used in wedding arrangements. Available spring through summer.
Lily of the Valley: Tiny, white, delicate bell-shaped flowers appearing in clusters on the end of bright green stems, amid broad flat leaves. As fragrant as they are expensive. These rare flowers are available only for a short time in the spring.
Lisianthus: With the appearance of delicate, papery tulips, these surprisingly hearty flowers are seen in bouquets of all styles. The blooms are available in white, pink and a purple-blue. They are available virtually year-round, but peak in the summer time.
Magnolia: Large white or light pink, 8-petal blossoms appearing for a short time in early spring. Magnolias are quite dramatic when used in bouquets and arrangement, but beware, they are very delicate.
Maidenhair Fern: Used in many commercial floral arrangements, this feathery fern is usually used as a base over which the flowers are arranged. Available year-round.
Marigold: This familiar flower features large blossoms in varying shades of yellow and orange, with soft green leaves and short stems. Marigold blooms in summer. They are easy to grow, and a bright addition to any arrangement.
Mint: A fragrant, delicious herb with small ridges along its blue-green leaves. Used to brighten the taste of food and drink, or add a wonderful fragrance to the bridal bouquet. Mint is ready for plucking in the spring and is available through the fall.
Muscari: Also known as grape hyacinth, these delicate succulent stems are often gathered for small hand-carried bouquets. Dozens of small blooms begin mid-stem and taper towards the top. Available in white and deep purple-blue.
Myrtle: A fragrant branch-like herb with small flat leaves and white blooms. Myrtle is often used as a dramatic green filler in both bouquets and table arrangements. Spring and summer.
Narcissus: Resembling white daffodils, single narcissus blossoms appear at the end of tall, sturdy stalks. They are very fragrant and are readily available in the summer and fall.
Nasturtium: Bright orange or yellow flowers grown on vines as ground cover. These vibrant, papery flowers on thin stems are edible and have a peppery taste. Perfect for cake decoration. Summer and fall. |