The genus Hibiscus in the Malvaceae (mallow family) includes more than 200 species, including annuals, perennials, shrubs and trees. Most of these do not make good houseplants. The Chinese hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) though is by far the most popular species offered for indoor use.

With over 1500 species, proteas come in different shapes and sizes, from shrubs to tall trees. Proteas are also known as sugarbushes, due to the excessive amount of nectar the flowers produce.

Beautiful carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus) was named after Greek word dios (divine) and anthos (flower).

Carnation, beloved staple of European artistic floral design does not enjoy same popularity in USA. There is a reason for that: In the 80s, we saw uprise of "pretend florists" and "grocery store flower shops", who did not know how to design with delicate flowers such as carnation. Instead of investing in proper floral design training, they opted to ruin reputation of one of the most beautiful flowers by calling it "cheap". Our beloved carnations are anything but. European and Asian floral designers continued to appreciate carnations and develop hundreds of new varieties, colors and texture. For some strange reason, we in the US are still stuck in the 80's mode of carnation unappreciation. With the new and young influx of floral designers in US, we are hoping that carnation, our divine flowers will raise back to it's throne. 

The custom of sending funeral flowers is something we take for granted, but did you ever wonder when this tradition began or the meaning behind the traditional funeral wreath?