Bells of Ireland
Bells of Ireland is a striking all-green line flower, its tall stems ringed with cup-shaped, apple-green calyces that look like a column of little bells. There is no petal colour to speak of — the appeal is entirely form and that fresh, unusual green, which makes it a favourite for adding height, structure and a botanical, garden-grown feel. Florists reach for it in tall arrangements, arches and monochrome-green designs, and it also dries and preserves well. Watch for the hidden spines when stripping the stems.
| Family | Lamiaceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | Eastern Mediterranean to Western Asia (Turkey, Syria, Caucasus) |
| Peak season | July, August, September |
| Availability | June, July, August, September, October |
| Stem length | 60–90 cm |
| Vase life | 7–14 days |
| Colors | green |
| Price tier | mid |
Handle carefully — the stems hide small thorns at each leaf axil, so wear gloves. Cut on an angle and condition in deep, cool water for several hours before arranging. The tiny true flowers sit inside the green calyx 'bells' and shed a little, so strip any lower bells that would sit in water. Stems are naturally supple and will curve toward light, which can be used for graceful lines.
- •Wear gloves — hidden spines along the stem
- •Condition in deep cool water before use
- •Recut and refresh water every few days
- •Support tall stems, as they can bend to light
- •Hangs and air-dries well for preserved work
- •Keep out of strong heat to hold the green
