Guide to Flowers for Potpourri
Potpourri is a delightful blend of dried flowers, herbs, spices, and essential oils that brings natural fragrance and beauty into your home. Using the right flowers is key to creating a potpourri that lasts and smells amazing. This florist guide lists flowers commonly used in potpourri, their scents, and how to prepare them.
1. Rose (Rosa spp.)
Scent: Sweet, floral, and romantic.
Uses: Adds a classic fragrance and color to potpourri blends.
Preparation:
Pluck petals when fully open and air-dry them in a single layer.
Enhance the scent with a few drops of rose essential oil.
2. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
Scent: Herbal, floral, and calming.
Uses: Perfect for relaxing blends or bedroom potpourri.
Preparation:
Harvest lavender stalks when the flowers are just starting to bloom.
Tie in bundles and hang upside down in a dry, dark place.
3. Jasmine (Jasminum spp.)
Scent: Sweet, exotic, and sensual.
Uses: Adds a luxurious aroma to blends, often used in evening or romantic settings.
Preparation:
Pick flowers in the morning when the scent is strongest.
Dry quickly to retain fragrance.
4. Marigold (Tagetes spp.)
Scent: Musky, slightly citrusy.
Uses: Adds vibrant yellow and orange hues to potpourri.
Preparation:
Harvest fully open flowers and separate the petals.
Air-dry or use a food dehydrator for faster results.
5. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
Scent: Mildly sweet, apple-like, and calming.
Uses: Great for soothing, herbal potpourri blends.
Preparation:
Pick flowers when in full bloom and dry them whole.
6. Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
Scent: Mild, with a tart undertone.
Uses: Adds bold red color to potpourri.
Preparation:
Remove petals from the flower and air-dry.
Combine with more fragrant flowers for a balanced blend.
7. Peony (Paeonia spp.)
Scent: Sweet, fresh, and slightly fruity.
Uses: Brings soft fragrance and pastel tones to potpourri.
Preparation:
Pick petals when blooms are fresh and vibrant.
Dry thoroughly to prevent mold.
8. Orange Blossom (Citrus sinensis)
Scent: Citrusy and floral.
Uses: Adds a fresh, energizing note to blends.
Preparation:
Pick blossoms in the early morning and dry quickly to preserve the fragrance.
9. Violet (Viola odorata)
Scent: Sweet and powdery.
Uses: Adds a subtle, nostalgic scent and a pop of purple color.
Preparation:
Air-dry flowers whole, handling gently to avoid crushing.
10. Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus)
Scent: Mild and earthy.
Uses: Provides a beautiful blue color for visual appeal.
Preparation:
Dry petals or whole flowers in a cool, dry place.
11. Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
Scent: Mildly herbal and slightly tangy.
Uses: Adds a vibrant yellow-orange color to potpourri blends.
Preparation:
Separate petals and dry them in a warm, ventilated space.
12. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Scent: Earthy and slightly spicy.
Uses: Adds texture and an herbaceous note to potpourri.
Preparation:
Dry whole flower heads for a rustic touch.
How to Make Potpourri
Ingredients:
Dried flowers (as listed above).
Fixatives: Orris root powder, cinnamon sticks, or dried citrus peel to retain scent.
Essential oils: To enhance or refresh fragrance.
Herbs and spices: Add rosemary, cloves, or star anise for additional aroma.
Instructions:
Dry the Flowers: Ensure all flowers are thoroughly dried to prevent mold.
Mix the Ingredients: Combine dried flowers, fixatives, and any herbs or spices.
Add Essential Oils: Add a few drops of essential oil to intensify the fragrance.
Cure the Potpourri: Store the mixture in an airtight container for 1–2 weeks to let the scents meld.
Display: Place the potpourri in bowls, sachets, or decorative jars.
Tips for Long-Lasting Potpourri
Store unused potpourri in a cool, dry place.
Refresh the scent occasionally with additional essential oils.
Use a mix of colorful flowers for a visually stunning display.
