From Delicate Bunches to High-End Singles
Ranunculus flowers, traditionally known for their delicate image and often bought in bunches as gifts, have experienced a significant transformation. Sold individually now, their bulbs are exchanged at a high price, putting them in the same category as gladiolus, lilies, and roses. Eric Barbier, manager of Floribelle and ranunculus producer in Brignoles, Var, attributes this shift partly to the Success series, an improved version of the flower developed in San Remo, Italy, around twenty years ago.
With larger buds and fewer stems than their classic counterparts, these modern ranunculus varieties resemble large roses in appearance. However, they maintain a more bohemian and informal vibe, featuring a wide range of soothing colors and a rustic countryside charm that is both local and seasonal. According to Barbier, these qualities allow the ranunculus to fit well with current trends and gain significant market share, attracting customers even from abroad.
Blooming Success from November to April
Producers successfully grow different varieties of ranunculus by efficiently managing their greenhouses, allowing them to bloom from November to April without requiring heating. North of the Loire River in France, Anne Derickxsen, owner of Oh! floral farm, planted her first ranunculus in 2023 and found them to be a bestseller at village squares. Derickxsen, a former architect turned member of the French Flower Collective, prefers to pick her ranunculus flowers when they’re still buds, ensuring that they gradually open up to reveal their rounded structure when placed in vases.
- Ranunculus flowers boast many petals, making them an attractive option for both buyers and florists.
- Often paired with anemones or tulips, which are its seasonal counterparts, these flowers also thrive alone due to the diversity of their shades.
- Their various colors – purples, yellows, and oranges – make them perfect for creating arrangements reminiscent of Rothko’s art, as noted by Anne Derickxsen.
Caring for Your Ranunculus Flowers
For the best results, it’s essential to know how to care for your ranunculus flowers properly. A crucial step in maintaining their health is to stop watering them when their leaves begin turning yellow and dry, and keeping the surrounding area clean. By doing so, you can enjoy the beauty of these versatile blooms for longer periods of time.
Why Choose Ranunculus?
There are several reasons why more people now prefer ranunculus over other flower varieties:
- Unique Appearance: With their large buds and numerous petals, ranunculus stand out from traditional flowers, such as roses or lilies.
- Diverse Colors: Ranging from subtle pastels to bold hues, there’s a shade of ranunculus to suit every taste and style.
- Seasonal Allure: Boasting a rustic countryside charm in line with current trends, these flowers come into bloom from November to April without the need for greenhouse heating.
- Variety Combinations: Ranunculus pair well with seasonal counterparts like anemones and tulips, but they’re equally stunning on their own, thanks to the diverse shades they offer.
- Easy Maintenance: Proper care for ranunculus flowers involves minimal watering and cleaning, making them a low-maintenance option for both novice and experienced gardeners.
In Conclusion: The Floral World’s New Darling
In recent years, the ranunculus has emerged as a star in the world of flora. With its unique appearance, diverse colors, seasonal allure, and easy maintenance, it’s no wonder more people are choosing this flower as their new favorite. Perhaps it’s time you gave the captivating ranunculus a try – the perfect addition to any bouquet or floral arrangement.
