Greek mythology is the source of two legends about the anemone These jewel-toned flowers were said to have sprung up from the blood that was shed by Aphrodite’s lover, Adonis, when he died. The ancient Greeks also believed that Zephyrus, go of the west wind, favored the bloom, hence its other name, windflower. While not scented, this relative of the peony and ranunculus is sought after for its vibrant magenta, red and purple hues. Just a few bright blooms add a blast of color to bouquets and arrangements.
A simple, modern gown requires elegant but understated flowers. One easy solution is a bouquet made from a single variety, and one good choice is the lush, brightly colored anemone.
Anemones are spring flower, but they’re a little wimpy in the heat, which tends to turn them inside out. They work best when there is no nip in the air. If you can afford them as imports-not surprisingly, they’re on the costly side-consider bringing them into your winter mix.
The Essence of Chic
French Anemones
Delicate and sophisticated, the French anemone travels in very nice circles indeed. Its large black center, akin to a plush velvet button covered in countless ebony pushpins, lets you know that this is a flower that certainly knows how to play dress up.
Is your bridal color scheme black and white? Look no further. The dark center and surrounding buttercream petals work exquisitely well in the most formal of settings, and look stunning in black-and-white photographs.
For all its serious elegance, this is also a flower with immense versatility, making it equally at home where the atmosphere is more casual. It’s so downright cute that it can switch from formal to casual in a wink.Whatever the case, you can proceed with confidence, because this flower carries such substantial beauty and elegance that it fits in , chameleonlike, in any situation.
And not just for the bride. If the bridesmaids are to be decked out in slender black cocktail dresses-and many brides are choosing this option as a way to free their friends from the terribly dated notion of a onetime-use chiffon number-expect the French anemone to be a stupendous addition.
As for the groom and his groomsmen, few boutonnieres offer the cool, urbane look of this flower.
One note of caution: All that elegance, power, and versatility come at a price.This is one of the more expensive flowers in the floral palette, so prepare for a little sticker shock.