French Days Stems

Choose a stem the way you would a cut flower: height first, then variety. Our selection brings together stems of roses, peonies, ranunculus, hydrangeas and dahlias, along with the foliage and branches that give them volume.

Height before variety

Each stem's name states its length, from the short flower set in a bud vase to tall hydrangea and peony stems. The simplest rule is to aim for an overall height one and a half times that of the vase. An artificial stem is trimmed with wire cutters, never with scissors.

Closed bud and open bloom

The same rose comes in a closed and an open version, and this repetition is deliberate. Closed buds bring rhythm and lightness, open blooms carry the color and volume. A convincing bouquet mixes the two, with roughly one third buds.

Foliage and branches

Flowers alone quickly look static. Supple foliage fills the gaps between stems, while a graphic branch provides structure and holds its own in a large vase without any flowers. For a tall console, start with the branch, then add the flowers one by one.

Frequently asked questions

Can an artificial stem be shortened?

Yes, the stem contains a metal wire that can be cut with wire cutters. Remove a lower leaf rather than cutting down the whole height in one go.

How many stems does a bouquet need?

Allow five to seven stems of the same variety in a medium vase, more if the neck is wide. An odd number almost always gives a more natural result.

How do I care for the stems day to day?

A feather duster or soft brush is enough for dust, petal by petal on large flowers. Avoid wetting the blooms and constant exposure to direct sunlight.