If you're a Ranunculus fan, you're in for a real treat this month at New Covent Garden Market! There are so many stunning varieties gracing our wholesalers' stands.
For example, check out this bright yellow Omega Cloni Ranunculus!
Background
From the Ranunculaceae family, this popular flower derives it name from a combination of two Latin words, 'rana' meaning frog and 'unculus' meaning little. It's assumed that it earned this name because it grew along streams and was as plentiful as little frogs in the spring!
Ranunculus asiaticus is the most readily available cut flower variety and its common name is Persian buttercup. Originating from Europe and South West Asia, its delicate blooms with ruffles upon ruffles of paper thin petals formed in a rosette can be found in colours ranging from yellow, red, cream and pink to orange, burgundy and white. Ranunculus are usually available in wraps of 50 stems, although sometimes you'll find them split into wraps of 10.
There are several different varieties of Ranunculus available at the Flower Market including Elegance, Cloni, Cloni Pon Pon and Butterfly.
Elegance are the standard type of Ranunculus. Cloni, sometimes spelt Clooney, have a similar petal formation to Elegance, but they have larger heads. And the most sought after variety is pastel pink Hanoi. You may also find them referred to as Cloni Success. Cloni Pon Pon have large heads and their petals are flamenco-ruffled.
And lastly, there's Butterfly Ranunculus, which is a relative newcomer on the flower scene. It has single formed flowers, reminiscent of buttercups and each stem can carry twelve to fifteen flowers. Its petals have a wax-like texture that gives them an iridescent appearance and each variety is named after a different God.
Ranunculus, as a cut flower, are usually available from November/December through to May/June. This month, in particular, is peak season. Around April, you'll find British Ranunculus at the Market. And during March and April, our plant wholesalers often have trays of potted plants.
Types
To follow are just a few examples of the many different Ranunculus varieties available at Nine Elms.
ELEGANCE
Salmon
Orange
Red
Burgundy
White
CLONI RANUNCULUS
Firenze
Commedia
Mambo
Elios
Red
Sangria
Sherry
Deep PInk
Rosado
Light Pink
Venere
Pink
Hanoi
CLONI PON PON
Malva
Merlino
Stella
BUTTERFLY
Theseus
Charis
Minoan
DESIGN INSPIRATION
With their chiffon-like petals layered like delicate French pastries, Ranunculus are very versatile flowers. In pastel shades, they're perfect for romantic wedding flower designs. And in more vibrant hues, they look wonderful clashing with other bright colours in gift bouquets. Scroll down for lots of beautiful inspiration...
Bouquet by Rebel Rebel
Bouquet by Amanda Austin Flowers
Bouquet by Hybrid Flower Co
Bouquet by Urban Flower Co
Vase Arrangement by Grace & Thorn
Table Arrangements by Hiding in the City
Wedding Design by Bloom + Burn
Arrangement by Pulbrook & Gould
Bouquet by John Carter Flowers
Table Arrangement by Larry Walshe
Bouquet by Zita Elze
Bouquet by Rob Van Helden
Bouquet by McQueens
Bridal Bouquet by Mary Jane Vaughan
Your Designs
(Source: Fierce Roots London)
(Source: Flowers and Such)
We'd love to see photos of designs that you've made using ranunculus from New Covent Garden Market. Simply send an email to hello@cgma.co.uk, stating your company name and website address. Or if you prefer, you could post your photo on Instagram or Twitter and tag us with @MarketFlowers. We'll then upload your photos into this section.
I hope you've enjoyed reading this month's florist's guide. Please do ask away below if you have any questions or would like to make any general comments. As always, we'd love to hear from you...
P.S. Did you know that in the Language of Flowers, the Ranunculus symbolises 'you are radiant with charms' and 'rich with attractions'?
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