My Water lilies Grace the Cover
Chuffed that one of my flower arrangements was selected!
I had the unexpected delight of having a photograph one of my own table arrangements selected for the cover of Flowers Magazine Australia. Needless to say I was chuffed. I had started writing for the Magazine back in October 2023 and I didn’t happen to have an article for the coming April/May 2024 edition, so I submitted the photograph for consideration.
I’ve written some 6 articles for the Magazine since 2023 with a 7th about the fantastical Festival Flora in Cordoba to be published in the upcoming December/January issue. Flowers Magazine Australia is Australia’s only floristry and flower industry magazine which comes out 4 times a year, and is a guide for the flower and foliage industry in Australia. The magazine features interesting interviews and articles on up to date topics from flower industry leaders. Available in both print and via e-magazine subscriptions are available via www.flowersmagazine.com.au
The table arrangement featured some sublime white tropical waterlilies (nymphaea violacae) from Leuca Creek Waterlilies (@leucacreekwaterlilies) from our south west Margaret River region (also famous for our wines). I’d used tractor seat (Ligularia) leaves - aptly named, from my indoor plant to replicate waterlily leaves (as you can’t buy them and they are floppy anyway), some dwarf papyrus stems from our home frog pond and some moss. I just love, love waterlilies. The bend on their thick fleshy stems, dramatic blooms and delightful perfume are irresistible.
My arrangement took on a contemporary take of a vegetative floral design (a style of design which is naturalistic in composition with plant materials being positioned as they would grow in nature). In hindsight a couple of low bowls of water would have completed this design. The form of the waterlily stems mimicking the shape of the vase and the handles. The moss and pebbles replicating what you might expect on the edge of a pond or lake. Repetition of the waterlilies, papyrus, round vases and tractor leaves along the length of the table created a very quiet focus for the table.
Waterlilies would have to be one of my all time favourite flowers. The Leuca Creek waterlily season runs from December to the end of June. In addition to the stunning blooms, you can actually use the dried flowers in a tea. The flowers contain 2 bioactive compounds Nuciferine and Aporphine which may assist with sleep and reduce stress and anxiety. Also known as “Blue Lotus” waterlily tea was used by the ancient Egyptians and will not make you drowsy. The waterlily petals also make 100% natural wedding confetti and sprinkled in your warm bath, creates a luxuriating atmosphere.
I purchase waterlilies from our local flower wholesaler even if it’s just for home and my own pleasure. Below is my Pachamama vase I brought back from our travels in Patagonia a few years back. The weight and fragility of the vase of course rattled the G when it came to transporting it back home. But nothing my hand luggage couldn’t handle.
I plan to take a weekend to Margaret River in the new year and visit the flower farm for an article in a future Flowers Magazine Australia edition, and of course I will share it here on the Flog.
I’d love to see your waterlily arrangements or pond water lilies.
I will be posting my other 6 other articles for Flowers Magazine Australia over the next 6 months. If you’re interested in reading them please subscribe.