Spring Feature Flower: Snowball Viburnum
Also known as guelder rose, snowball viburnum is one of our favourite flowers of the season! It looks like pretty miniature balls of hydrangea and brings a feminine softness to arrangements. Viburnum flowers in spring but is also sold in autumn when it displays berries.
History of snowball viburnum
Snowball viburnum flowers carry the meaning of innocence, purity and calmness. The name comes from the latin for ‘wandering tree’. The name likely refers to the plant’s habit of spreading easily as birds consume the fruit.
The flower plays an important role in Ukrainian folklore with the berries and flowers being worked into the textile designs of ritual clothing and altar cloths. It is also linked to passionate love in Russian mythology.
How to care for snowball viburnum
Snowball viburnum can be temperamental as a cut flower, so it is important to follow these steps to ensure their longevity. Look for branches with partly open flowers and avoid branches which drop flowers and leaves when shaken. Strip leaves from the lower half of the stem before cutting approximately 12cm off the ends of the stems on an angle. The ends of the stems can then be split upwards which increases the surface area of the stem which takes up water. Immediately plunge into cool water and recut the stems and change the water every two days.
How to style snowball viburnum
Snowball viburnum looks it’s best when styled alongside other spring pretties such as lilac and peonies. As it is sold in long branches it can be used in large arrangements or the stems can be cut down to be included in posies. We love to include snowball viburnum in beautiful spring weddings with an abundance of seasonal floral such as lilac and peonies.
