Iris

Irises somehow conjure up a feeling of other-worldliness. Like their exotic counterpart, the lily, irises speak of warm climes, with echoes of the orchid but with a lighter, pretty presence. Irises are a lovely element within floral gifts, whatever your purpose in including them happens to be.

In terms of colour, iris varieties do vary, but purples and yellows are among the more commonly encountered tones. The shape of an iris is of course its most fascinating aspect, with a design no artist could ever hope to emulate.

Iris is often combined with other blooms to create a colourful, varied presentation, in which case it can become part of a celebration, a birthday message of well wishes, or a communication of get well soon intention. You can of course opt for a bouquet consisting entirely of iris, with different varieties competing with one another in terms of unmistakable beauty.

The striking blue and purple petals you often find in an iris display provide an excellent opportunity to create a bit of contrast with colour. Particularly engaging when arranged alongside flowers of bright or dark red, this is a real treat for the eyes as well as nose.

Both older and younger ladies tend to like iris elements within floral bouquets, but their colours and shapes also make them ideal for men. If you’re sending a gift that is perhaps for men as well as women, for example to celebrate the birth of a baby, this makes irises the perfect ingredient.