The Essentials

One stem at a time, a bouquet that's truly yours: the essentials bring together the artificial flowers and foliage that carry over from one arrangement to the next. You'll find roses, peonies, hydrangeas, dahlias, carnations, orchids, gypsophila and sedum, along with eucalyptus foliage, in heights from 45 to 110 cm.

Height before variety

The rule is simple: the stem should rise above the vase by one and a half times the vase's height. A low 15 cm vase therefore calls for 45 to 60 cm stems, while tall 90 to 110 cm stems need a floor vase or a column. The height appears in the name of each stem, so there's no need to measure it.

One lead flower, two supporting roles

A bouquet that holds together rests on three roles. The lead flower provides volume and color, and peonies, hydrangeas or roses do this very well. A finer flower brings rhythm, such as a dahlia or a carnation. Finally, foliage fills the gaps and hides the neck of the vase.

The cloud that lightens the whole

Gypsophila and small-flowered foliage play a role of their own: they soften the outlines and let the light through. Slip two or three stems around the edge of the bouquet, never in the center. Sedum, fleshier, does the opposite and helps fill out an arrangement that feels too airy.

Frequently asked questions

What stem height for a medium vase?

For a 20 to 30 cm vase, 56 to 68 cm stems give the most balanced proportion. You can always shorten the effect by pushing the stem deeper into the vase.

How do you care for an artificial flower?

A feather duster or a puff of cool air is enough to remove dust from the petals. Avoid full sun behind a window, which eventually fades the colors.

How many stems do you need for a bouquet?

Allow five to seven stems for a medium vase, and nine to twelve for a large arrangement. Odd numbers look more natural to the eye.