Guide to Flower Varieties That Add Volume to Bouquets
Creating a lush, full bouquet requires selecting flowers that naturally contribute volume through their size, shape, or texture. Below is a guide to flower varieties that excel at adding volume to bouquets, along with their characteristics and tips for use.
1. Peonies
Description: Peonies are large, lush blooms with soft, ruffled petals, available in shades like pink, white, coral, and red. Their full, rounded shape makes them ideal for adding instant volume.
Bloom Size: 3–7 inches in diameter.
Best Use: Focal flower in romantic or garden-style bouquets.
Tips: Use fully bloomed peonies for maximum volume. Cut them when buds are soft to the touch to ensure they open fully. Available late spring to early summer.
Care: Keep in cool water and remove foliage below the waterline to prevent rot.
2. Hydrangeas
Description: Hydrangeas feature large, clustered blooms composed of small florets, available in blue, pink, white, or green. Their dense, dome-shaped heads create a bold, voluminous effect.
Bloom Size: 4–12 inches across.
Best Use: As a base or filler to add bulk in large arrangements.
Tips: Use one or two stems to fill space quickly. Their woody stems need a clean cut and plenty of water to stay fresh. Available summer to fall.
Care: Dip stem ends in boiling water for 30 seconds to improve water uptake.
3. Garden Roses
Description: Garden roses have a fuller petal count than standard roses, with a soft, cupped shape. They come in a wide range of colors, including peach, blush, and deep red.
Bloom Size: 2–5 inches in diameter.
Best Use: Focal or secondary flower for lush, romantic bouquets.
Tips: Choose varieties like ‘David Austin’ for extra petal density. Their fragrance adds sensory depth. Available year-round, with peak in summer.
Care: Remove thorns and guard petals, and keep in fresh water with flower food.
4. Chrysanthemums
Description: Chrysanthemums (mums) come in various forms, like pompons, spiders, or cushions, with dense, layered petals in colors like yellow, white, pink, and bronze.
Bloom Size: 1–6 inches, depending on variety.
Best Use: Filler or focal flower for texture and volume in mixed bouquets.
Tips: Spider mums add dramatic flair, while cushion mums provide a softer, rounded look. Available year-round.
Care: Trim stems at an angle and change water every two days to extend vase life.
5. Dahlias
Description: Dahlias offer bold, multi-layered blooms in shapes like pompon, ball, or dinnerplate, with colors ranging from vibrant reds to soft pastels.
Bloom Size: 2–10 inches, with dinnerplate varieties being the largest.
Best Use: Statement flower for adding drama and fullness.
Tips: Use larger varieties like ‘Café au Lait’ for maximum impact. Available late summer to fall.
Care: Cut stems early in the morning and place in warm water to encourage longevity.
6. Baby’s Breath (Gypsophila)
Description: Baby’s breath features delicate, airy clusters of tiny white or pink flowers, creating a cloud-like effect that fills gaps and adds softness.
Bloom Size: Clusters span 3–6 inches.
Best Use: Filler to add airy volume and texture.
Tips: Use generously to create a wispy, ethereal look. Pairs well with bold blooms like peonies or roses. Available year-round.
Care: Mist flowers lightly to maintain freshness and avoid overhandling.
7. Amaranthus
Description: Amaranthus, or love-lies-bleeding, has long, cascading, tassel-like flower heads in red, pink, green, or purple, adding vertical volume.
Bloom Size: Drooping heads can reach 12–18 inches long.
Best Use: For trailing or cascading effects in bouquets or centerpieces.
Tips: Use in wildflower or bohemian-style bouquets for a dramatic, flowing look. Available summer to fall.
Care: Keep stems in deep water to maintain turgidity.
Design Tips for Voluminous Bouquets
Balance: Pair large blooms (e.g., peonies, hydrangeas) with airy fillers (e.g., baby’s breath) to avoid a heavy look.
Color Harmony: Use a cohesive color palette to enhance the perception of fullness.
Texture Variety: Combine ruffled, dense, and wispy textures for depth and interest.
Structure: Start with a base of greenery or hydrangeas, then layer in focal flowers and fillers.
Vase Choice: Use a wide-mouthed vase to support the weight and spread of voluminous blooms.
These flower varieties can transform a bouquet into a lush, eye-catching display. Consider seasonal availability and consult with a florist to source the freshest blooms. Experiment with combinations to suit your aesthetic, whether it’s romantic, modern, or rustic.
