Handmade Rainbow Wedding: Allison & William

Allison and her family have been my neighbors in the hills of Rainbow for over ten years.  When Allison decide to get married, she knew she did not want a traditional wedding.  Her biggest priority was deciding on the venue where her and her fianceé, William, could put on an amazing party for their family and friends in a a spot that was a real reflection of them and their style.  Allison grew up in Rainbow and for years has seen the land around her transform from steep brushy hillsides to colorful flower fields.  So, Allsion decided the wedding should be over-looking the flower fields and the reception in her front yard.  The next decision to make was the flowers - her bouquet, the buffet table, the head-table and centerpieces.  Allison stopped by to see me just week's before the wedding and asked if I would help her with the arrangements - she really wanted to incorporate Protea into the theme as well.  I was thrilled to help - it's not too often I get to wear the flower farmer florist hat and personally deliver handmade arrangements.  Allison and William were thrilled with the flowers and I enjoyed them too!

 

 

TSFA Celebrating 100 Years

"A Look at our Past…a Vision for the Future"

This month the Texas State Florists' Association held its 100th anniversary convention in Austin, Texas. Reflections - "A Look at our Past…a Vision for the Future " was the conference and trade show theme. Knowing the TSFA was stopping to reflect on their outstanding accomplishments and now looking to the future, we decided Protea should be a part of the future and this significant Celebration! So, just in case you weren't one of the many attendees who stopped by to say hello and see our display of gorgeous California Grown flowers and foliage - here's a preview:

 

Our Congratulations to TSFA for cultivating member success and a strong floral community over the past 100 years!

Leucadendron

Did you know the fabulous ‘silver tree’ has given its name to an entire genus of Proteaceae?  The tree also reveals the obvious allure of this unique group – the splendor of its foliage. 

The name Leucadendron is derived from the Greek leukas meaning ‘white’ and dendron meaning ‘tree’.  This wonderful species as a group has chosen to focus less on the amazing flowers that we associate with other proteas.  Instead, they emphasize the beauty of their leaves.
 
Leucadendron are also unique among the Proteaceae in that each variety comes in separate sexes, both male and female which accounts for the incredible array of hues and textures we see throughout the year.  However, during the summer months and well into autumn the dominate color scheme includes reds, greens and golden tones. Here’s a preview of some of the radiant varieties currently being harvested:

Salignum Pink

Safari Sunset

Inca Gold 

Jester 

Gandogerii 

Goblet 

Leucadendron - The splendors is in its foliage!  What’s your favorite?

Callistemon – The True Bottlebrushes

Looking for Bottlebrush?  Lately, we’ve had numerous requests for those colorful fluffy-like flowers that bear a striking resemblance to the well known kitchen tool.  However, the first question that comes to mind is - Exactly which bottlebrush are you referring to?  The name bottlebrush has been used to identify several Australian native plants including Banksia, Melaleuca , Calothamnus and even Grevillea.

Did you know the Callistemon are the true Bottlebrushes?  This Australian genus of about 38 species is a member of the myrtle (myrtaceae) family.  The soft flower spikes are made up of a large number of individual flowers.  Bloom color varies between species; most are red, but some are pink, mauve, yellow, green, orange or cream, and many species have two or more flowering periods a year.  In addition, bottlebrushes are also easily recognized by the textural seed clusters that are produced after each flowering period.

The nectar rich flowers are an absolute feast for insects and birds of all varieties with many also choosing the bottlebrush as a safe home for nesting.

Calistemon Reeves Pink is a relatively new addition to our list of summer flowers. Its dainty light pink bristles and delicate mint green foliage adds wonderful color and texture to bouquets and arrangements and it even looks lovely when displayed in a vase all alone.

What to look for:

• Buy when at least half the flowers in a spike are open and brightly colored.
• Avoid bunches with drooping tips, yellow leaves or where all flowers are in a tight bud stage.

Flower Care:

1. Keep in a cool location.
2. Strip leaves from the bottom half of each stem and wash stems thoroughly.
3. Re-cut at least 1/2" off each stem and place in cold water.
4. Always use a preservative as this will help keep open flowers looking fresh.
5. Replace vase water every day.
   

Happy 4th of July!

Hope your Independence Day sparkles as bright as the fireworks! 

Have a Safe and Wonderful Day! 

Resendiz Brothers Protea Growers