Flowers may be the star of the show, but with greenery working as their ever-important supporting cast and backup singers, the “show” is more well-rounded, complete, and so much more amazing. Nearly every floral design relies on greenery to bring the entire piece to life. Greenery provides support and a foundation for beautiful blooms, as well as offers contrast, texture, rhythm, spatial dynamics, and wonderful green colors which act as a neutral tone to give your eyes a rest.
More than just filler, sprigs of greenery are key players in the overall effect of a flower design. For some florists, greenery is the design, as fabulous greenery pieces are starting to take center stage in bridal bouquets, centerpieces, and floral decor. According to the floral experts at Cascade Floral Wholesale, the only limit to how greenery can be used is your imagination! Below we list some of the more popular and versatile pieces of greenery we love working with. For even more options, browse our selection.
Italian Ruscus
Italian Ruscus lends a vivid, vibrant green, and dynamic nature to floral designs. Beloved for its versatility, hardy stems, and slim, elegant leaves, Italian Ruscus works especially well in floral arches or trailing beautifully from a cascading bouquet. Place it in a bride’s hair for a Greek goddess effect, weave it down the middle of an event table, or place it atop a cake for a wonderfully natural addition. However you use it, the beautiful emerald green leaves of Italian Ruscusa are always up to the occasion.
Dusty Miller
For a soft, ethereal look, add a bit of Dusty Miller which evokes charm and mystery with its silvery-green leaves and fuzzy texture. When added in bunches to your floral designs, it resembles clusters of lace. There is nothing fragile about this greenery, though, as its stalk is sturdy, and the leaves are thick, belying its overall delicately romantic nature. Nestle it within bridal bouquets or centerpieces for a soft, understated elegant look.
Monstera
This gorgeous tropical leaf is from the Monstera plant, also known as the “Swiss Cheese plant” due to its dramatic and large holes. It’s a piece of greenery that is becoming increasingly popular, appearing as a focal point of green decor for events that lean toward the modern and tropical. Just one or two of these dinner-plate-sized leaves make a striking impact when used as table runners, centerpieces, or hanging greenery. They can even be used as placemats for food or the main piece of decor repeated in invitations, signage, dress patterns, and in the bridal bouquet.
Spiral Eucalyptus
Spiral Eucalyptus brings a whimsical yet intriguing look to floral bouquets. They provide vertical accents with their straight sturdy stems that have numerous, smaller circular leaves growing off of them. When used in a bunch, the dynamic and voluminous look they create is rich with texture, rhythm, and patterns. The spiral Eucalyptus pairs well with most flowers and also looks great in a vase on its own.
Myrtle
With long stems lined with glossy leaves in a pretty, mid-tone green, myrtle is a popular choice for many floral designers. Using multiple stems together creates lush, thick foliage that looks great in centerpieces. It’s also a wonderful addition to any decor piece for the home as it exudes a sweet fragrance. Myrtle symbolizes love, luck, and prosperity which is why it is often used in wedding decor.
Tree Fern
With a tuft of plumage sprouting from its top, tree fern brings softness, wispiness, and fun to any arrangement. Often used to add a touch of green to boutonnieres and corsages, this refreshing and versatile greenery provides airiness, texture, and allure to floral arrangements.
Explore the many incredible ways to use a variety of greenery in your own floral creations, and don’t hesitate to ask us how we can help you find your perfect selection today.