Alternatives To The Ubiquitous Red Rose

Cherry-red roses are traditional, but darker red hues are becoming more fashionable. Barkarolle and Baccara (deepest black red), Black Magic (also very dark), Nicole (dark red inside, pale pink outside), Leonidas (burnt orangey red) are extremely attractive varieties. If you prefer a magnificent smell : Jacaranda (cerise pink), Bianca (white), Candia (peachy pink) and Honesty (pale pink). If it must be red roses, try mini potted or spray varieties as a dainty alternative.

Other flowers are becoming more popular as Valentine's gifts. Red flowers of any kind are in favour, with more flowers appearing in very dark, rich shades.

Other red flowers around this early in the year include huge trumpets of amaryllis; tulips - Cassini is a rich red; designer-daisy gerbera - Beauty is a good red and aptly named; delicate anemones; and longlasting carnations - ask for Gigi or Nelson.

Why not be adventurous and try an anthurium - shaped like a giant love heart in glossy lipstick-red it makes the perfect present for the fashionably lovestruck.

There is also a trend for large bunches of spring flowers, which are in season and therefore extremely good value. Rather than expensive perfume, why not give what many women crave as a love token - a posy of seasonal, scented flowers in glorious colours?

According to research carried out by the Flowers & Plants Association, scent is very important - freesia, hyacinths, lilies, and tazetta narcissi all have wonderful fragrances and are widely available at this time of year. Soleil d'Or, Ziva, Royal Connection, and Avalanche are all excellent varieties of scented narcissi to choose.

More unusual as a Valentine's gift is a glamorous scented flowering pot plant such as jasmine, gardenia or stephanotis, or an (unscented) exotic orchid. F&PA research shows that flowers are perceived to be a personal and intimate gift believed to have taken a degree of consideration and selection. Finding out your sweetheart's favourite flower or indoor plant would be a good first move for any would-be Valentine.

Don't forget, flowers are not just for females! More women are also showing their affections by sending bouquets to their men. Strong, sculptured, exotic flowers are ideal for manly gifts, or bouquets featuring foliage and berries as well as flowers.