“Filler” is such a sad word choice when referring to greenery. I LOVE greenery! It is so much more than filler to me. But you may be thinking, “then what is greenery”? It is the supporting actor, milk to my latte, crust to my pizza. While the flowers might be the showstopper, there wouldn’t be a show without greenery in my book.

I design organic, garden style arrangements. This means, lots of greenery in a wild and free look. The motive isn’t a sloppy attempt at a bouquet, but the creation of space for the elements to be free and look like they would in their natural habitat. I know it isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, and that’s ok! But if you find yourself drawn to loose greenery flowing from a bouquet or popping up between petals in a centerpiece, then I am right there with you.

Whether you know exactly what you are looking for in your design style, or open to some input, I want to share with you some basic greenery knowledge. When I am hired by a couple they are entrusting me to bring their designs to life, which includes the floral and greenery recipes for arrangements. Do you need to know all about greenery before booking a florist, nope. But, it might be helpful to have an idea of what you do and don’t like, and be able to put a name to the green. Here we go!

Types of Greenery

Eucalyptus

The queen of green! There are so many different types of eucalyptus that each bring a different feel. Silver dollar is often the go-to/on trend version now, but allow me to expand your eucalyptus possibilities!

True blue (spiral) has leaves running up a stem, gunni is fuller with more traditionally shaped leaves, silver dollar has larger round leaves, willow has long full leaves on stems, gum drop is similar to silver dollar but fuller with smaller leaves, and parvafolia has smaller leaves than gunni that are a little less full.  No matter the type, it will fill up the room with a lovely scent.

Italian Ruscus and Israeli Ruscus

Israeli ruscus has deep green, rounder leaves that make for a beautiful contrast with flowers and diversity of lighter greens. Italian ruscus leaves are slimmer and longer with more of a delicate (romantic and whimsical) look.

Smilax

A climbing green that is anything but uniform which is the beauty of it.

Magnolia Leaves

These are some of my favorites right now. I love using these in color palettes that match their green and burnt orange brown sides. They have great dimension for the two colors they offer.

Greenery can be used as an element in bouquets, arch arrangements, aisle decor, garlands for tables, centerpiece arrangements, bar decor, and SO much more. I have included some examples of varying styles to consider when it comes to greenery use. I like a diverse combination of greens, even more than one or two types of eucalyptus, to add some depth to any project.

Greenery Forward

This style is for the greenery lover! Greenery to bring the outside in as you transform a simpler space into something that have the wonderful and fresh scent of eucalyptus.

Mixed

This example is the epitome of garden style. Loose, organic, textured, with elements presented at differing heights. While the ratio of flowers to greenery can vary, the essence of the design is a healthy mix of both.

Floral Forward

This style is an organic twist on a classic tight floral bouquet. While still featuring reaching greenery and floral, the bouquet lacks bigger pockets of open spaces. And the flowers definitely are the main ingredient

Reading about greenery is one thing, but dreaming up designs with it is even better! Leave a comment or shoot me a message if you want to talk garden style greenery!