Hardy vs. Delicate Flowers: Which Is Best For You?

Starting my floral career on the fields of Ecuador, and growing it into what it has become today, with orders being delivered all over the country every single day, I’ve learned which flowers are hardy and which are more delicate. These two classifications have their respective perks in style, size, and textures, but it is important to know which flowers are best for your event. I’m going to share with you my wisdom from over the years that can help you decide how to choose your wedding or event flowers based on the time of year, predicted weather of that time of year, and where you will be using these flowers.

When and Where to use Hardy:

Hardy flowers are great to use in warm climates where you can expect medium to high heat. You will find these flowers perfect for the Summer and Winter, when the weather can be at its most extreme. This could be at a Joshua Tree Elopement, a LA Rooftop Brunch, or any wedding during the months of June-August in most regions of the United States. These flowers have mixed textures and have been expertly bred to stay strong in harsher climates. 

Hardy Flowers Include:

• Carnations
• Alstroemeria
• Daisies
• Tropicals:
  • Birds of Paradise
  • Heliconia
  • Ginger
  • Anthurium 
  • Proteas
• Craspedia
• Greenery: 
  • Eucalyptus
  • Olive 
  • Pine
  • Gravelia
• Fillers:
  • Babies Breath
  • Limonium
  • Hypericum Berries
  • Statice
  • Solidago
• Dahlias
• Sunflowers
• Zinnias 

When and Where to use Delicate:

Delicate flowers can be used in environments where you will medium to lower heat. These are the perfect flowers for Spring and Fall, Winter, if you are not putting the flowers in anything lower than 35 for more than a few hours. These are often bulbs you will find natural sprouting at this time, and they lend themselves to a softer texture. These are very lush and dense flowers. 

Delicate flowers include:

• Ranunculus
• Roses
• Lilies
• Spring bulbs: 
  • Tulips
  • Daffodils
  • Hyacinth
• Hydrangea
• Anemones
• Peonies
• Delicate Fillers: Veronica, 
  • Veronica
  • Tweedia
  • Queen Anne's Lace
  • Astilbe
  • Astrantia

Now, I would like to say that these suggestions are not steadfast rules, but more options for your consideration. I’ve seen plenty of summer weddings with hydrangeas, veronica, and tulips, but where the magic comes in is knowing how to adapt your flowers to your surroundings. If your wedding look is one that needs the softer, more delicate flowers, try to secure some shade or frequent watering for them. You should also consider making the bulk of your design be 70% hardy flowers, 30% delicate. This is a ratio that will help you weave in the beauty of those delicate flowers, but that could save you some money and assure that your designs last well into the night with hardy flowers. 

Check out this Hanging Floral Arrangement, using both delicate and hardy flowers!

Read More Like This:

• Flower Spotlight: Designing With Dahlias
• Summer Wedding Flowers: Our Favorite Florals For The Season
• 15 Flower Meanings: Discover The Significance Of Each Bloom

Credits:

Photos 1 & 2: Jacque S. Photography

Photos 3 & 4: Photography: Chelsea Anderson Photography, Venue: The Historic Post Office, Planning & Styling: Raise the Ruth Events, Floral Artist: Courtney Inghram Events, Invitations and Paper Goods: Lauren Perry Studio, DJ: Astro DJs, Cake: Sugar on Top Cakes and Sweets, Rentals and Styling: Mad Hatter Vintage, Hair: Stephanie Michelle Hair, Bridesmaids Gowns: Rent the Runway, Chivari Chairs: Waterford Event Rentals, Linens: Classy Event Rentals, Videography: Joshua Bryan Cinema, Dress: Maya Couture