June 2, 2025

Top 8 Winter Fresh Cut Flowers in Season Right Now – June 2025

peach frilled tulip bouquet

Brighten up your Winter Day with Fresh Cut Flowers

Let me introduce you my top 8 Winter Fresh Cut Flowers in season right now.  These locally grown blooms are in season in Melbourne, and you can pick them up from your favourite local florist – Camberwell Florist!  I’ll also share how they are grown, a bit about their history, what you need to do to get the most out of your beautiful Winter blooms, and how to grow them in your own garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a flower enthusiast, understanding these blossoms can enhance your appreciation and inspire creativity in your floral arrangements.

peach frilled tulip bouquet
Peach Frilled Tulips

Tulips: The Classic Winter Flower

Creative Ways to Use Tulips in Floral Arrangements

Tulips are beautiful flowers to give to a girlfriend or your BFF.  The simplicity of giving a bunch of Tulips beautifully wrapped is the perfect gift that they’ll love.  You can also pair Tulips with Daffodils, Hyacinth, Sweet Peas or Roses.  Tulips are in season right now until the end of Spring.  They are grown in the outer Melbourne suburbs and in Tasmania.

How to take Care of Fresh Cut Tulips

Tulips are easy to care for.  All you need to do is get your vase ready – make sure you wash your vase with diluted bleach.  Cut the tulip stems on an angle and place directly into the vase water. After a few days you’ll notice that the Tulip stems have grown a little and the blooms have become bigger.  The stems can be left to grow, or you can cut them back to keep the tulips in nice shape.  If you don’t cut the stems, you’ll notice the flowers will extend out, leaning towards the sunlight.  Reposition or re-adjust to personalise the look of your vase of tulips.

Colour Varieties and Their Meanings

Tulips come in a rainbow of colours, each carrying its own meaning. Red tulips represent love, while yellow tulips symbolize cheerfulness and hope. White tulips signify purity, and pink tulips are often associated with affection. Understanding these meanings can add a personal touch to your floral gifts or garden displays, allowing you to convey emotions and intentions through your choice of blooms.

The History of Tulips

Tulips are one of the most recognizable flowers in the world, known for their cup-shaped blooms and vivid colours. Their history dates back to the Ottoman Empire, where they were cultivated extensively and symbolized wealth and prestige. In the 17th century, tulips made their way to Europe, leading to a phenomenon known as Tulip Mania in the Netherlands, where prices for bulbs soared to extraordinary heights. Today, tulips are celebrated worldwide, especially during spring when they bloom in gardens and parks.

Growing Tulips in Your Garden

Growing tulips requires some planning, but the rewards are well worth the effort. They thrive in well-drained soil and prefer a sunny location. Plant tulip bulbs in the fall, about six to eight weeks before the ground freezes, and ensure they are placed at a depth of about 6 to 8 inches. Watering is crucial during the initial growth stage, but once established, tulips require minimal care. After blooming, allow the leaves to die back naturally to store energy for next year’s growth.

 

Freesia: The Fragrant Favourite

short vase filled with white orchids freesias and white daphne flowers

Floral Vase Arrangement with White Freesias

Characteristics of Freesia

Freesia flowers are beloved for their sweet fragrance and colourful blooms, which can range from white to deep purple.  Freesias are a long-lasting flower which make them great value for money. You can enjoy them on their own or add them with other flowers to make a pretty fragrant posy. Each flower is trumpet-shaped, often with a delicate waxy texture, and they typically grow on tall, slender stems. 

How to Care for Fresh Cut Freesias

Freesias are easy to care for and enjoy in your vase at home.  Simply prepare your vase (see above in Tulips), cut stems, arrange in the vase and inhale the beautiful fragrance!

How to Care for Freesia Plants

To cultivate freesia successfully, plant the corms in well-drained soil in a sunny location. Freesias prefer cooler temperatures, so it’s best to plant them in early spring or late winter in warmer climates. Regular watering is essential, but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to rot. After blooming, allow the foliage to die back naturally, as it helps the plant store nutrients for the next growing season.

Canterbury Bells: The Bellflower Beauty

Canterbury Bells bunch
Bunch of Mauve Canterbury Bells

Floral Design with Canterbury Bells

Canterbury Bells are a popular floral addition when creating a bouquet.  Apart from their beautiful bell-shaped blooms, and attractive colours, they are known in the florist industry as a long-lasting flower.  Canterbury Bells can last for up to two weeks providing that the appropriate care is taken. 

How to Care for Fresh Cut Canterbury Bells

The care tips for Canterbury Bells are quite easy and straightforward.  All you need to do is remove from the stems any leaves that will sit in the vase water, cut the stems on an angle and place directly into the vase water. Make sure the vase is washed with diluted bleach arranging your Canterbury Bells flowers.

Different Types of Canterbury Bells

Campanula, commonly known as Canterbury Bells, come in a wide variety of species, ranging from low-growing ground covers to tall perennials. Some popular types include Campanula carpatica, known for its charming blue flowers, and Campanula medium, which can reach heights of over two feet. Each variety brings unique beauty and can fit various garden styles, from cottage gardens to formal landscapes.  

Growing Canterbury Bells: Tips and Tricks

Campanula thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. Before planting, ensure the soil is enriched with organic matter to promote healthy growth. Regular watering during the growing season is important, especially in dry spells. Deadheading spent blooms encourages further flowering and keeps the plants looking tidy. Campanula is relatively low maintenance, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Designing your Garden with Campanula in Mind

Incorporating campanula into your garden design can create a soothing and cohesive look. Plant them in clusters to create a stunning carpet of colour, or use them as border plants to frame pathways. Their bell-shaped flowers can also be a charming addition to mixed flower beds, providing a unique contrast against taller plants.

large bouquet of white flowers gift wrapped with white paper and sage green ribbon including white roses canterbury bells rosemary and queen anne lace
Bouquet of white flowers including Canterbury Bells

Protea: The Unique and Exotic

short glass vase arrangement filled with native flowers including protea blushing bride grevillea wax flower and eucalyptus
Proteas in Floral Arrangement

Introduction to Protea Varieties

Protea is a diverse genus of flowering plants native to the Southern Hemisphere, particularly South Africa, and is known for its striking, spiky blooms. They do grow really well in Australia, making them a lovely addition to your garden.  Popular varieties include the King Protea, which is recognized for its large flower head. The diversity within the protea family offers a range of options for gardeners looking to add an exotic flair to their landscapes.

Incorporating Protea into Modern Floral Arrangements

Proteas are popular flowers to enjoy at home and to give as a bouquet because they are known as hardy long-lasting flowers.  Their unusual shapes, striking colours and large blooms make a bold impact in floral designs. They can serve as striking focal points in arrangements or as eye-catching standalone features. Pair them with softer blooms and greenery to create a textural contrast.  Proteas are great to choose if you’re looking to create a rustic relaxed vibe.

Seasonal native flowers bouquet large including king protea protea leucadendron gumnuts and foliage

How to Care for Fresh Cut Protea Flowers

Even though Protea are hardy long-lasting flowers, some care should be taken before arranging them in your vase.  With scissors or secateurs cut the stems on an angle, and split the stems up vertically.  This will allow water to travel up the stem to the flower head.  Doing this will make the flowers look popping fresh!

Cultivating Protea in the Australia

Growing Proteas in Melbourne is really easy, because they love well-drained, sandy soils and require plenty of sunlight. They are drought tolerant, and birds are drawn to their flowers and foliage. It’s best to grow them in pots or raised beds that allow for adequate drainage. During the winter months, proteas may require protection from frost, so consider bringing them indoors or using frost cloths to ensure their survival during colder temperatures.

Waxflower: The Delicate Touch

Nikki - 3 Christmas flower jars - Australian native flowers
Jar Trio made with Wax Flower, Kangaroo Paw and Gum

Waxflower in Bouquets and Arrangements

Waxflower’s delicate blossoms make it an excellent filler flower in bouquets, complementing larger blooms without overpowering them. Their versatility allows them to fit into various floral designs, from rustic to elegant. Consider using waxflowers in wedding bouquets, as they symbolize love and fidelity, or in everyday arrangements to bring a touch of whimsical charm.

Why Waxflower’s are a Popular Flower in Winter

Small abundant flowers with a lovely scent – what’s not to love about Waxflower? The delicate appearance of waxflowers adds a soft touch to bouquets and arrangements, making them ideal to incorporate into small posies and larger flower arrangements.  Waxflowers can last for about two weeks, making them a great choice if you’re looking for value for money flowers.

How to Take Care of Fresh Cut Waxflowers

It’s a bit of work, but the payoff is long lasting flowers.  You’ll need to remove all the leaves are going to sit in the water.  If you don’t remove the leaves the water is going to get dirty really quick.  Flowers don’t like dirty water.  They die pretty quickly.  The best practice for keeping flowers alive longer is to remove all the leaves that are going to sit in the water.  Cut the stems on an angle – so the tip of the stem sits on the water. This allows the rest of the stem to draw up water right up to the blooms, and keeping your flowers hydrated will make them look fresh.

Care and Maintenance of Waxflower Plants in your garden

To grow waxflowers, plant them in well-drained, sandy soils and ensure they receive full sunlight. These plants are drought-tolerant once established and require minimal watering. Regular pruning helps maintain their shape and encourages bushier growth, leading to more blooms. Waxflowers are generally low maintenance, making them suitable for busy gardeners.

Sweet Pea: The Enchanting Winter Flower

a bouquet created with pale pink peonies white peonies white bouvardia and white sweet pea
Sweet Pea and Peony Posy

Winter is a season often associated with barren landscapes and chilly weather, but amidst the frost, there blooms a flower that brings a touch of magic to the cold months – the Sweet Pea. Known for its delicate beauty and enchanting fragrance, the Sweet Pea is a winter flower that captivates the hearts of many.

A Brief History on Sweet Pea Flowers

The Sweet Pea, scientifically known as Lathyrus odoratus, has a rich history dating back to the 17th century. It was first discovered in Sicily by a monk named Francisco Cupani, who sent seeds to England, where the flower quickly gained popularity. Over the years, horticulturists have cultivated numerous varieties, each with its unique colour and scent.

How to Take Care of Fresh Cut Sweet Pea Flowers

Sweet Peas are one of the easiest flowers to take care of as a cut flower.  Simply wash your favourite vase with diluted bleach, fill the vase up, about halfway, with fresh water.  Cut the Sweet Pea stems on an angle and arrange them in the vase.  That’s it!!

Characteristics and Varieties

Sweet Peas are renowned for their vibrant colours, ranging from soft pastels to bold hues. Their petals are often ruffled, giving them a whimsical appearance. The flower’s fragrance is one of its most alluring features, often described as a blend of honey and orange blossom.

There are several varieties of Sweet Pea, including:

  1. Spencer Sweet Peas: Known for their large, wavy petals and strong fragrance.
  2. Grandiflora Sweet Peas: Smaller flowers with intense colors and scents.
  3. Dwarf Sweet Peas: Compact plants perfect for containers and small gardens.
Purple Sweet Peas
Purple Sweet Peas

Growing Sweet Peas in Winter in Your Garden

Sweet Peas thrive in cooler temperatures, making them ideal for winter gardens. Here are some tips for growing these enchanting flowers during the colder months:

  1. Planting: Sow seeds in late autumn or early winter. Sweet Peas prefer well-drained soil and a sunny location.
  2. Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
  3. Support: Provide trellises or stakes for the plants to climb, as they can grow quite tall.
  4. Feeding: Use a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.

The Symbolism of Sweet Peas

Sweet Peas are often associated with delicate pleasures and blissful enjoyment. They symbolize gratitude and are commonly used in bouquets and arrangements to express appreciation. Their presence in a winter garden can bring a sense of warmth and joy, even on the coldest days.

The Sweet Pea is a winter flower that embodies beauty, fragrance, and charm. Its ability to thrive in cooler temperatures and its captivating appearance make it a favourite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of colour to your winter garden or simply enjoy the delightful scent, Sweet Peas are sure to enchant and inspire.

Narcissis Flowers: The Winter Beauty

a bouquet of yellow orange and red flowers including yellow roses yellow ranunculi orange roses yellow rhododendron red hypericum berry and yellow daffodils
Cheerful bouquet made with Daffodils and Roses

Winter is a season that often brings to mind images of snow-covered landscapes and bare trees. However, amidst the cold and frost, there blooms a flower that adds a touch of elegance and charm to the winter garden – the Narcissus. Known for its striking beauty and delicate fragrance, the Narcissus flower is a winter gem that captivates the hearts of many.

How to Take Care of Daffodils

Daffodils, as a cut flower, are very easy to care for.  When choosing Daffodils in a flower shop, pick out a bunch where there are only buds.  At home, get your vase ready.  Wash the vase in diluted bleach, rinse and fill the vase halfway with water.  Cut the stems on an angle and place directly into the vase.  Place them 

A Brief History on Daffodils

The Narcissus flower family includes Daffodils, Paper Whites, Jonquils and Erlicheer (pronounced erli-cheer) The daffodil has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It is named after the Greek mythological figure Narcissus, who was known for his beauty and self-admiration.  The young man called Narcissis, was tricked into falling in love with his own reflection. The drooping flowers that characterise most of flowers are said to represent Narcissis bending over to catch a glimpse of himself in a pool of water (source:  National Trust – UK) The flower has been cultivated for centuries and is cherished for its vibrant colours and unique shape.

Characteristics and Varieties

Narcissus flowers are renowned for their trumpet-shaped blooms and bright colors, ranging from pure white to golden yellow. Their petals are often smooth and symmetrical, giving them a refined appearance. The flower’s fragrance is subtle yet enchanting, adding to its allure.

There are several varieties of Narcissus, including:

  • Trumpet Daffodils: Known for their large, trumpet-shaped blooms and vibrant colors.
  • Double Daffodils: Featuring multiple layers of petals, creating a full and lush appearance.
  • Miniature Daffodils: Compact plants with smaller blooms, perfect for containers and small gardens.
Jonquils
Jonquils

Growing Daffodils in Winter

Narcissus flowers thrive in cooler temperatures, making them ideal for winter gardens. Here are some tips for growing these beautiful flowers during the colder months:

  1. Planting: Sow bulbs in late autumn or early winter. Daffodils prefers well-drained soil and a sunny location.
  2. Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to bulb rot.
  3. Support: Provide stakes or supports for taller varieties to prevent them from bending or breaking.
  4. Feeding: Use a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.

The Symbolism of Narcissus

Narcissus flowers are often associated with renewal and rebirth, making them a perfect symbol for the winter season. They also symbolize hope and new beginnings, as they bloom amidst the cold and barren landscape. Their presence in a winter garden can bring a sense of optimism and joy, even on the darkest days.

The Narcissus flower is a winter beauty that embodies elegance, fragrance, and charm. Its ability to thrive in cooler temperatures and its captivating appearance make it a favorite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of color to your winter garden or simply enjoy the delicate scent, Narcissus flowers are sure to enchant and inspire.

 

The Winter Charm:  Poppies as Cut Flowers

Poppy Flowers
Poppies

Winter is a season that often brings a sense of calm and tranquility, with its serene landscapes and crisp air. Amidst the cold, there blooms a flower that adds a touch of vibrant color and elegance to the winter months – the Poppy. Known for its delicate beauty and striking appearance, Poppies are a wonderful choice for winter cut flowers that can brighten up any space.

A Brief History on Poppy Flowers

Poppies, scientifically known as Papaver, have a rich history that dates back to ancient civilizations. They have been cultivated for centuries and are cherished for their unique beauty and symbolism. Poppies are often associated with remembrance and peace, making them a meaningful addition to any floral arrangement.

Characteristics and Varieties

Poppies are renowned for their large, delicate petals and vibrant colours, ranging from deep reds to soft pinks and bright oranges. Their petals are often crinkled, giving them a whimsical and ethereal appearance. The flower’s centre is usually dark, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding petals.

There are several varieties of Poppies, including:

  • Oriental Poppies: Known for their large, bold blooms and vibrant colours.
  • Iceland Poppies: Featuring smaller, delicate flowers with a wide range of colours.
  • California Poppies: Compact plants with bright orange blooms, perfect for adding a pop of colour to any arrangement.

Using Poppies as Winter Cut Flowers

Poppies make excellent cut flowers for winter arrangements due to their unique beauty and ability to add a touch of elegance to any space. Here are some tips for using Poppies as cut flowers during the colder months:

  1. Cutting: Choose Poppies that are just beginning to open for the longest-lasting blooms. Cut the stems at an angle to allow for better water absorption.
  2. Conditioning: Place the cut stems in warm water immediately after cutting to help them stay fresh. Adding a floral preservative can also extend their vase life.
  3. Arranging: Poppies can be used in a variety of arrangements, from simple bouquets to elaborate centerpieces. Their vibrant colors and delicate petals make them a versatile choice for any design.
  4. Displaying: Keep the arrangements in a cool, well-lit area to ensure the flowers stay fresh and vibrant. Avoid placing them near heat sources or direct sunlight.
short glass vase filled with seasonal orange burgundy and yellow flowers including poppies strawflower gypsy and calendula
Poppies featured in this floral arrangement

The Symbolism of Poppies

Poppies are often associated with remembrance and peace, making them a meaningful addition to any winter arrangement. They also symbolize beauty and resilience, as they bloom amidst the cold and barren landscape. Their presence in a winter bouquet can bring a sense of warmth and joy, even on the coldest days.

Poppies are a winter charm that embodies beauty, elegance, and symbolism. Their ability to thrive as cut flowers and their captivating appearance make them a favourite among florists and flower enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of colour to your winter arrangements or simply enjoy the delicate beauty of Poppies, these flowers are sure to enchant and inspire.

Conclusion: Embracing the Beauty of Flowers

Flowers enrich our lives in countless ways, offering beauty, fragrance, and emotional connections. From the timeless elegance of tulips to the exotic allure of proteas, each flower has its unique charm and story. By understanding their characteristics and care requirements, we can cultivate our gardens and create stunning floral arrangements that celebrate nature’s artistry.

FAQs

What is the best time to plant Tulips?

It is best to plant tulip bulbs in Autumn, about six to eight weeks before the ground freezes. This allows them to establish roots before winter.

What is the best colour Tulip to give to my girlfriend?

For a romantic gesture, red tulips are the most popular and classic choice.  Red Tulips symbolise love and affection.  Pink tulips can express affection and happiness.

Can Freesia grow in colder climates?

Freesias prefer cooler temperatures, so they can thrive in colder climates if planted in the spring after the last frost. In very cold areas, consider starting them indoors and transplanting.

What are the different colours of Canterbury Bells, and what do they mean?

Campanulas can be found in various colours, including blue, purple, and white. Each colour symbolizes different meanings; for instance, blue often represents tranquillity, while white signifies purity.

How do I care for Proteas in Australia?

Proteas require well-drained, sandy soil and plenty of sunlight. Protect them from frost during winter and ensure they have adequate drainage to prevent root rot.

What is the symbolic meaning of Waxflowers?

Waxflowers symbolize love and fidelity, making them a beautiful choice for romantic arrangements, such as weddings and anniversaries.

Flowers

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