Popular Wedding Flowers Continued
6. The Peony
The peony has a large, full head, strong perfume, and bright color. The flower acquired the Victorian meaning "bashfulness." Cultivated in Asia for more than a thousand years and developed further by the French, the peony is available in two main types, the herbaceous and the tree peony, although the latter's flowers do not last as long when cut. A bouquet made solely of peonies can be gorgeous or the flowers can also be used to create beautiful centerpieces and arrangements. Grown in single- and double-flower styles, this expensive bloom is seasonally available from late spring to early summer but can be imported in the fall (at a hefty cost no doubt).
7. Ranunculus
Looking for a cost-effective alternative to roses or peonies? The you may want to try the lush, multi-petaled ranunculus, which is a relative of the buttercup. To carry ranunculus is to tell your partner, in the Victorian language of flowers, "I am dazzled by your charms." A natural for the bridal bouquet or bridesmaid nosegays, the ranunculus also makes a whimsical boutonniere and is available in many colors including white, yellow, orange, and pink.
8. Stephanotis
The Victorian meaning for this flower is "marital happiness," making the dainty white Stephanotis an obvious choice for weddings. The star-shape, waxy florets actually grow on a flowering vine, and so each must be individually wired or placed onto a special holder before it can be arranged. A bouquet of stephanotis blossoms is one of the most traditional a bride can carry, and a stephanotis boutonniere is a classic choice for a formal wedding. Mildly scented, moderately priced, and available all year round.
9. Sweet Peas
The sweet pea, which signifies "lasting pleasure," was first brought to England from Sicily in 1699, and the English have had a love affair with this delicate flower ever since. It's candy-like scent and ruffled blossoms make this an old-fashioned favorite in bouquets for the bride and her bridesmaids.
The sweet pea's many colors range from white to intense pinks and purples, and it's scent can be strong and sweet.
10. The Gardenia
Surrounded by dark green, waxy leaves, the exquisite gardenia exudes a sultry, heavy scent. It was this intoxicating fragrance that captivated an English sea captain traveling through South Africa in 1754, prompting him to bring home one of the native plants as a souvenir. Gardenias are lovely tucked into a bouquet or floating in a low bowl as a centerpiece, and a single gardenia makes a wonderful scented corsage. But be gentle as the delicate, creamy ivory petals of this expensive flower can bruise easily.
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