Lisianthus

Often overlooked, this supermarket-bouquet workhorse can really shine on its own—and leave holiday poinsettias in the dust

GET IT TOGETHER
To get the full, 
florid effect of this arrangement, cut stems at different lengths and place longer ones in the back, with shorter ones in front. A family of pastel colors works well here, but a single color will do, too.

FLORAL NOTE
Lisianthus buds break easily, so snip battered or unformed ones 
off at the joints to prolong the life 
of the stem.

THE RIGHT VASE
A tall, stiff-necked vase will keep thin lisianthus stems in line; this silvery vessel gives the bouquet a special shimmer. Aluminum vase from 
ABC Carpet & Home, $600, abchome.com. Reclaimed-wood stool 
by Canvas, $260, 
canvashomestore.com. Wallpaper: Hornback Madagascar in Platinum by Crezana, available to the trade through John Rosselli & Associates, 
212-593-2060.