Star-Spangled 4th of July Flowers

Beautiful centerpieces are a lot like wonderful guests. They add a festive ambiance, entice the eye, and spark interesting and inspiring conversations. With the summer’s abundance of fabulous florals, anyone can easily assemble an arrangement that's dynamic, alluring and intriguing.

Consider hosting a 4th of July gathering and set the scene with a colorful arrangement fashioned with proteas and an array of other flowers and foliage. The good old red, white and blue is a classic color combination that will never go out of style, especially if your gathering is on Independence Day. Take this arrangement for instance, the patriotic color scheme is vibrant and cheerful, and the textures convey a real “Star-Spangled Banner” theme.

The Leucospermum Scarlet Ribbon are the fireworks in this design and the white King Protea along with the Leucadendron Safari Sunset add color and contrast. Stems of Grevillea Ivanhoe and eucalyptus provide a lush green foundation. And, for a spirited touch, I’ve mingled in some spiky blue Eryngium or Sea Holly and sprigs of white Lepto Roundifolia and Jasmine Vine.

Why not compliment this year’s firework celebration with your favorite red, white and blue flowers? They'll add an extra special spark to the day and help create lasting and memorable moments for your friends and families. Happy 4th of July!

Lepto Rotundifolia

Lepto Rotundifolia, a member of the Myrtle family and related to clove, eucalyptus and guava, can be easily confused with its relative the waxflower.  Often called “Blue Lepto” or “Lavender Queen”, this Australian native is a favorite around Easter and Mother’s Day.

The long woody stems produce clusters of white, pale mauve or lavender flowers that complement the beauty of proteas as well as an array other spring flowers and foliage.

Rotundifolia is versatile and can be used in a variety of other ways.  Its long stems are excellent for adding line to an arrangement and are especially chic in oriental and contemporary designs. The stems can also be shaped into decorative handles for baskets, added to dish gardens or make a charming accent in bud vases.  Once the flowering season ends, wonderful seed pods form on the branches creating a fun and textural foliage for autumn bouquets and arrangements.

What to look for 

• Buy stems in the bud stage to ensure the longest vase life.
• Avoid bunches that are shedding or flowers that are turning brown. 

Flower Care 

1. Stems should be re-cut with pruning shears. The stems are very woody and may be tough to re-cut, but worth the effort as it will increase longevity.
2. Place stems loosely in a bucket of flower food solution and place in a cool place where they will get good air circulation.
3. Rotundifolia has a vase life of 7-14 days