Fashion Flowers For Autumn - Rhythm Deluxe

< Anthurium

Anthuriums are once-seen, never forgotten flowers! Many people may have come across them on Caribbean holidays or in the Far East.

They have an unmistakable glossy heart-shaped flower bract, which gives them their popular name of painter's palette. This bract surrounds the true flowers, which are in the form of a spike or spathe at the centre.

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Lily >

One of the most elegant and sophisticated flowers, lilies have been popular since the earliest times for their beauty, longevity, and often heady perfume.

Traditionally used for events from births, and weddings, to funerals, they are the perfect flower for any occasion.

Now available all year-round, and lasting up to two weeks, their popularity is increasing. They topped the Flowers & Plants Association "Favourite Flower" charts last year.

There are many different species - naturally occurring forms - of lillies. The one shown in Rhythm Deluxe is the Asiatic Lily, which is unscented and comes in bright warm colours.

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< Dahlia

Dahlias are native to Mexico and South America, where they were originally called acoctli. First recorded by Westerners in 1615, they disappeared from record until 1787 when a botanical expedition "rediscovered" them, and sent seeds back to Europe.

The National Collection of dahlias is at Varfell Farm, Long Rock, Penzance, Cornwall. In September the collection is open to the public, when over 10,000 dahlias can be seen in flower.

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Hypericum >

Hypericum is probably more familiar to you than it may first apprear; it is more commonly known as St John's Wort and has been enormously popular in recent years as a herbal anti-depressant.

Interest in using hypericum berries for arrangements has rocketed over the last five years; where once there was only one general variety available, increase demand has meant that there are now at least six or seven varieties - all with their own individual looks.

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< Leucospermum

Leucospermum are very strange looking flowers, almost like plastic pan scrubbers! There is nothing else like them in the flower kingdom.

Leucospermum, sometimes called pincushion protea, are related to the South African national flower, the protea. Both plants require smoke from a fire to germinate their seed.

They are not commonly available - you may have to request them from your florist - but they are well worth tracking down if you want your flowers to be a talking point!.

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Strelitzia >

Strelitzias originate from South Africa. Commonly known as Bird of Paradise, as these brightly-coloured flowers resemble the head and beak of an exotic bird with a brilliant orange and blue crest.

These showy tropical flowers are borne signally on very long, thick strong stems. Make sure the vase or container is sturdy enough to take the weight of the stem and flower heads!

The large, leathery leaves provide marvellous foliage for a grand, large-scale design.

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