Who will be the new Dahlia ‘Café au Lait’? The flower that led to the rebirth of the dahlia and a revival of cutting flowers in general has some new friends in equally interesting shades. Dare we say, “Gladiolus anyone?”
ZINNIA
The bold and brassy colors of Benary Giant zinnias are fine for some, but we’re liking softer tones like this pink and lime green one that is the little black dress of the cutting garden. For even more subtle colorations, seek out the Dawn Creek series of zinnias.
SNAPDRAGON
If you pinch the flowers, they roar, hence the name and a favorite of children for ages. The Chantilly line of snaps are a favorite at Floret Farm for their warm colors, strong tall stems and citrus-y scent.
NASTURTIUM
This classic of Monet’s garden has been undergoing some breeding in the past few years, resulting in a greater color range. ‘Empress of India’ is great for the name alone, and shown here is ‘Ladybird Rose.’
STRAWFLOWER
You might think that strawflowers are decidedly 1970s hippy, but they have been enjoying a recent revival. The demand for local flowers throughout the year makes these a prime candidate for dried winter arrangements.
QUEEN ANNE’S LACE
There are several of these umbel type flowers, including the roadside Queen Anne’s Lace (Daucus carota), but we prefer Ammi majus. ‘Dara’ is a dusted purple color, while ‘Green Mist,’ as the name implies, is dewy freshness personified.
GLADIOLUS
They aren’t just for funerals any longer. And a bright lime color like this one is a fresh addition to a summer arrangement. Also, keep a lookout for species grads that are perennial and have a more delicate flower.
CALENDULA
A staple of vegetable gardens, the calendula (or pot marigold), is having a moment with new softer colorings like this pale salmon-toned ‘Pink Surprise,’ perfect for mint julep cups.
COSMOS
White-pink and red were the colors for cosmos back in the day. New breeding programs have brought about burgundy flowers like ‘Rubenza’ and, shown here, ‘Apricot Lemonade.’
AMARANTH
You might associate amaranth with dusty Victorian parlors and great grandmother’s garden. But, again, new colorations have brought them back to life. ‘Coral Fountain’ is a new one that will blend in much better with any of the flowers here and, of course, ‘Cafe au lait’ dahlias.
