Written by Alastair Owen
June 20, 2013
When Shane Connolly asked to use British cut foliage for his favourite British-grown cut 'flower', we stretched the rules a little.
After all, it was Shane Connolly, author, event florist and florist By Royal Appointment – how could we refuse?
It soon became clear, however, that it wasn't such a stretch after all. Foliage Row at New Covent Garden Flower Market is awash with colour in the summer months, as the shrubs that have lain dormant for most of the year suddenly burst into flower.
Find out more in a special Product Profile on British Foliage for British Flowers Week here.
At our British Flowers Workshop, Shane created three classically romantic pieces exclusively for British Flowers Week in his loose, naturalistic style. "I want my flowers to look as though they once grew!" says Shane, and the irregularity of outdoor-grown British foliage helps create that look.
"British summer foliage doesn't need much additional flower," explains Shane adding just a few aquilegias and stems of Solomon's Seal.
Classically Lilac
Weigela, syringa persica and jasmine are the queens of this arrangement, accented by delicate aquilegia and forget-me-nots.
Country Charm
As though picked from the British countryside, a profusion of fresh cow parsley towers over the infinitely desirable Guelder rose (viburnum opulus), touches of Solomon's Seal and euphorbia.
Deep and copper
The deep red leaves of copper beech and the lighter tones of flowering photinia are complemented by exquisite bronze irises.
Shane Connolly | www.shaneconnolly.co.uk
We would love to your comments on Shane's arrangements of British summer foliage for #BritishFlowersWeek. Simply type in the boxes below...
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