Floral Materials & Tools Flashcards

What is 'Spanish moss' botanically classified as, and how is it commonly used in floral design?

Answer: An air plant (bromeliad) used as a ground cover or filler in arrangements

Spanish moss (Tillandsia usneoides) is actually a bromeliad epiphyte commonly used as decorative ground cover in arrangements and event décor.

When working with tropical flowers like anthuriums, what special care must be designer take regarding cold storage?

Answer: Avoid temperatures below 55°F (13°C) to prevent chilling injury

Tropical flowers like anthuriums suffer chilling injury when stored below approximately 55°F, causing pitting, blackening, and accelerated decay.

What is the function of a stem stripper in floral design?

Answer: Strips leaves from stems quickly to reduce bacterial contamination in water

A stem stripper quickly removes foliage from stems, which is important because submerged leaves decompose and promote bacteria that shorten vase life.

Which type of floral tape is self-adhesive and activates only when stretched?

Answer: Parafilm

Parafilm is a stretchable self-sealing film that bonds to itself when stretched, making it ideal for wrapping corsage stems without adhesive residue.

What distinguishes 'mechanics' from 'design elements' in floral arranging?

Answer: Mechanics are the structural support systems; design elements are the visual components

Mechanics encompass all structural supports (foam, wire, tape, frogs) that hold an arrangement together, while design elements (line, form, color) govern its visual appearance.

Which natural binding material is traditionally used in European-style hand-tied bouquets to secure the spiral stem bundle?

Answer: Raffia

Raffia, a natural palm fiber, is the traditional binding material for hand-tied bouquets, providing a clean, organic finish.

What is 'woody stem treatment' and why is it applied before arranging branches?

Answer: Crushing or splitting the base of woody stems to increase water uptake

Woody stems like lilac or forsythia benefit from crushing or splitting the cut end, which breaks the dense wood tissue and dramatically improves water absorption.