Top 12 Long-Lasting Cut Flowers

Cut flowers are more than a nice addition to tables, windowsills, and drab corners of your house that need brightening – they’re the secret weapon of interior designers, used to hide defects. Regrettably, some flowers wither quickly, gone like the wind, while others last a long time. Some flowers that are prone to wilting include tulips, daffodils, peonies, and daylilies. 

If you’re looking for long-lived blooms, here’s a few that make lovely cut flowers. 

The hobby of floral arranging can be as simple as a vase of carnations or as intricate as you want. When cutting your own flowers, keep a few key rules in mind: change the water regularly, cut at a 45-degree angle, and harvest in the cool of the morning. A hori hori knife can be useful in cutting off the stems cleanly. 

 

1. Gladiolus 

Gladiolus flowers are beautiful to have both in the garden and as cut flowers. Although it may seem desirable to cut them when in full bloom, for longer arrangements, cut when the bottom several florets are open. Gladiolus suited for warm climates will display florid, more impressive blooms, but will not survive harsh winters. 

2. Carnations     

Carnations are known as the “the poor man's rose,’ but that doesn’t mean they don’t have their uses. Many florists are amazed by their ability to last for weeks, and in truth, some gardeners even prefer their fastidious appearance. Their virtue lies in their simplicity – the darker varieties are ideal for a simple set-up that consists only of those blooms. Extend their lifespan by trimming the stems and changing the water regularly. 

3. Chrysanthemums

Enduring for weeks, chrysanthemums are the opposite of the tired wildflowers that dot the hillside. From spiky to frilly, they have expanded to include a wide range of interesting colors and forms. When picking for display, choose long-stemmed varieties, not the boring ones used for filling your front porch. They live on water – keep them lively by constantly replenishing their supply. 

4. Celosia   

Celosia has a history of reliability, producing high yields. It’s often overlooked as a cut flower, but it functions well as a filler plant that retains its color when dried. Those that resemble brains look especially funky, imparting a unique texture. There’s no better way to showcase vitality than create a wild arrangement brimming with celosias and wildflowers. 

5.  Poppies 

Rife with symbolism, poppies have a certain noir quality to them – there’s much to love about their ruffled, papery petals. It may be surprising to hear that these fragile flowers work well as cut flowers, as long as you follow a few steps. California poppies should be harvested when they are in the colored bud stage; to preserve them longer, expose the stems to heat. Burn the last inch of the stalk for about 30 seconds by holding it above a candle flame. 

6. Alliums 

It’s common to see these whimsical globes popping up in neighborhoods all summer long, with the purple ones being especially beautiful. Even though alliums are often intended as lawn décor, they’re surprisingly eye-catching in bouquets, injecting a youthful flair. Some may leak a clear fluid that turns red when it comes into contact with air, so be careful when handling. 

7. Sunflowers 

Sunflowers offer plenty of joy to a room. They can thrive in most conditions, though, as their name suggests, they are infatuated with sunlight and demand full sun. Nonbranching types (also known as single stem) are recommended for their fast-growing times and singular flowers on each individual stem. Ditch the usual yellow and experiment with different color sunflowers – teddy bear sunflowers are always a favorite. 

8. Anthurium 

Anthuriums aren’t typically used as cut flowers, but they’re a bold option for those seeking novelty. The color of red-hot chili peppers, they’re a deep red by default, but they can also come in pinks and whites. Intersperse with red roses for a striking, unique arrangement. Change the water once a week to increase their vase life. 

9. Zinnias 

Like in the garden, zinnias are freeform flowers, working best as an impromptu display rather than something that is carefully curated. Though often branded as a basic flower, they can add an airy charm. For a cleaner display, opt to remove all foliage from your zinnias. Leaving the stems longer can aid in the illusion of lightness. Pair with interesting textures, such as celosias or alliums to guide movement.

10. Ranunculus 

Consisting of tightly packed, tissue-thin petals, ranunculus flowers are popular in floral banquets. They can last up to 12 days in a vase. Their stems are susceptible to rot, so place in shallow water, about an inch, to prevent this. Ranunculus grow from corms, which can be planted in raised beds or in the garden – the secret is to soak the corms before planting. 

11. Coneflowers 

With straight, clean-cut stems that hold up sturdily, coneflowers are ideal candidates for cutting. No longer just plain purple, they come in a kaleidoscope of colors, typically on the warmer side: orange, raspberry pink and sunset coral. They are also prolific bloomers that bloom from mid-summer to fall, eliminating any regret that comes with plucking pretty flowers. 

12. Dahlia 

The star of the garden, dahlias never fail to brighten the mood, even if you woke up on the wrong side of the bed. Unlike other flowers, dahlias should be cut when they have bloomed. As dahlia bouquets can get expensive, it’s better to grow your own varieties, allowing you the freedom to tailor them exactly to your tastes.