Our Top Ten Summer Flowers
Aug 02, 2024
Summer in the UK - especially *this* Summer - is rather a season of unpredictable weather, with the sun phoning it in on an almost part-time basis. But when it does show its face, I'm all for filling the air with the irresistible aroma of barbecued food and having friends and family over to savour the fleeting summer evenings.
Flowers, in their splendour, are the perfect companions to these moments, adding a touch of natural elegance to my evenings - and with the bare minimum of effort, I'm sure they can do the same for you too.
Here are my top ten flowers for entertaining this summer:
1. Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas, with their sumptuous, cloud-like blooms, are the epitome of summer abundance. Available in an array of hues—from serene blues and purples to vibrant pinks and whites—these blossoms make a grand statement in any arrangement. They’re perfect for creating lush, abundant centrepieces that captivate the eye and evoke the fullness of summer. Harvest them directly from plants you might have in your garden, removing all leaves, and placing directly into clean, fresh water. For best results, keep them out of direct sunlight - and their secret nemesis - draughts!
2. Roses
No summer celebration would be complete without the timeless beauty of roses. These iconic flowers, with their soft velvet petals and intoxicating fragrance, come in a colossal spectrum of colours and sizes. Whether you’re crafting a classic bouquet or a more modern, eclectic arrangement, roses bring a touch of romance and sophistication to any setting. My favourites for growing in the garden this year are both by David Austin - the sublime 'William & Catherine' and the more wild 'Claire Austin'.
'Roses In The Hallway' from the free First Step Flowers series.
3. Ammi Majus
Often known as Queen Anne's Lace, Ammi Majus brings a delicate, ethereal quality to floral displays. Its airy, white clusters add texture and a lightness that’s perfect for outdoor parties and garden-inspired decor. This whimsical flower is a lovely way to enhance the natural, carefree spirit of summer entertaining, and looks perfect heaped in a vase in the most haphazard manner.
4. Delphinium
Delphiniums bring the drama to the flower world. Their tall, stately spires and rich colours—ranging from deep blues and purples to gentle whites—add vertical interest and grandeur to any arrangement. Delphiniums are perfect for creating striking focal points that draw the eye and lend a sense of elegance to your gatherings. For best results, remove all leaves, trim sharply with a knife (on a 45 degree angle, as always) and plunge into cool, fresh water. Remove the lower blooms as they age, and you might be able to keep them looking good for 10-14 days.
5. Cosmos
Cosmos, with their delicate, daisy-like form, infuse a sense of whimsy and joy into summer arrangements. These charming flowers come in various colours, from soft pinks and whites to vibrant reds and purples. Cosmos are ideal for adding a light, airy feel to your arrangements, embodying the relaxed, joyous spirit of summer days. Looking for something deeper? Check out 'Chocolate Cosmos' for a hint of darkness, and a truly unexpected floral scent, on brighter Summer days.
6. Scabiosa
Scabiosa is a unique addition to any bouquet with its distinctive, button-like blooms. Available in lovely shades of blue, purple, and pink, scabiosa adds an interesting texture and a touch of charm to floral arrangements. Their dainty, intricate flowers bring a subtle elegance and playfulness to your summer gatherings. I find they play very nicely with many other different flower varieties - but when you arrange them, do keep their stems long. They have such a rich, elegant poetry I find it is such a shame to see them cut short.
7. Peonies
Peonies are the definition of floral luxury. Their large, ruffled blooms and sweet fragrance are the highlight of any arrangement. Available in a palette that ranges from soft pastels to bold, deep hues, peonies add a sense of opulence and romance to summer entertaining. These flowers are perfect for creating lush, lavish centrepieces that are sure to impress. Do grab them May - June for very best results.
'The Summer Peony Bowls' from the free First Step Flowers series
8. Lupins
Lupins, with their tall, colourful spires, bring a touch of rustic charm and vibrancy to floral displays. Their varied hues—from rich purples and blues to warm pinks and yellows—add a dynamic and lively element to arrangements. Lupins are fantastic for adding height and a burst of colour, embodying the joyful exuberance of summer. Though they don't last long, do not let that stop you from buying, or indeed growing them, this Summer. Sometimes good things don't have to last forever.
9. Cornflower
Cornflowers, also known as bachelor’s buttons, are cheerful, classic summer blooms that add a touch of countryside charm to any setting. Their bright blue petals are eye-catching and delightful, perfect for adding a pop of colour and a touch of rustic elegance to your arrangements. Cornflowers are ideal for casual, laid-back gatherings, bringing a bit of the meadow into your home. The blue variety is fantastic, but do keep an eye out for the fleeting white and pink varieties too - they are delightful.
10. Astrantia
Astrantia features star-shaped blooms that add a delicate and whimsical touch to floral designs. Their soft pinks, purples, and greens blend beautifully with other summer flowers, creating a harmonious and elegant look. Astrantia’s unique, intricate blooms bring an ethereal quality to bouquets, perfect for adding a touch of magic to your summer soirées.
Bringing It All Together
With this delightful array of blooms, you can create stunning centrepieces, bouquets, and arrangements that elevate your summer entertaining.
Mix and match these flowers to suit your theme and colour palette, and let their natural beauty and fragrance enhance the joy and warmth of your gatherings.
Happy entertaining, and may your summer be filled with the beauty and joy of these enchanting blooms!
Artist. Educator. Writer. Broadcaster.
