Flowers bring colour, depth, and character into any space. When it comes to decorative design, knowing the types of solutions available and how they’re best used can set a good decorator apart from a great one. From versatile stems to delicate sprays, each type has its own charm, purpose, and best uses.
This guide explores the differences between flower stems, picks, branches, and sprays to help you choose the right pieces for your next breathtaking arrangement.
1. Flower Stems
Flower stems are the building blocks of most arrangements. They are single, elongated flowers or greenery pieces attached to a stem, and they offer flexibility in both design and use.
Where They Shine
- Everyday decorating: perfect for a vase on a console table, desk, or kitchen island.
- Large arrangements: they form the “core flowers” that anchor centrepieces.
- Weddings and events: flower stems make it easy to design bouquets and altar displays.
Popular Types
- Roses: timeless elegance for romantic settings.
- Orchids: exotic and graceful, ideal for contemporary homes.
- Hydrangeas: big blooms for volume and drama.
- Greenery stems (like eucalyptus): excellent for filler or minimalist looks.
Beyond the basics, flower stems give you the power to customise height, density, and colour palette. For instance, tall flower stems like gladiolus or lilies can draw the eye upward in a dramatic hotel lobby arrangement, while shorter rose stems are perfect for table centrepieces where guests still need to chat across the table. Pro Tip: Use flower stems in odd numbers (three, five, seven) for a natural, balanced look.
Read more: Using Plants to Create a 5-Star Restaurant Atmosphere
2. Flower Picks
Flower picks are smaller, more compact pieces often mounted on short stems or wrapped with floral tape. They’re designed to be tucked into arrangements or décor where extra detail is needed.
Where They Shine
- Perfect for adding accents to wreaths, garlands, or table runners.
- Ideal for holiday decorating, such as Christmas trees or Easter baskets.
- Provide texture and variation when combined with larger stems or sprays.
Popular Types
- Glittered or metallic picks for festive occasions.
- Mini roses or tulips for soft, delicate highlights.
- Berry or seed picks to add texture.
Because they are small and versatile, picks give you design freedom without overwhelming a display. They’re excellent for layering, like weaving hydrangea picks into a garland which can make it feel fuller and more vibrant. Or, if you’re styling a small vase, a few colourful picks can be all you need for a cheerful look without committing to a large arrangement. Pro Tip: Picks are the secret weapon for event stylists. They can instantly refresh a garland, arch, or even a table napkin ring.
Read more: Are Silk Flowers Really More Expensive?
3. Flower Branches
Branches bring structure and drama to floral arrangements. They’re often taller, more sculptural pieces that resemble natural tree branches with blossoms, buds, or foliage attached.
Where They Shine
- Entryways or foyers: one or two tall branches in a vase can make a bold statement.
- Corporate offices: ideal for professional, minimalist décor.
- Seasonal displays: cherry blossoms in spring, magnolia branches in summer.
Popular Types
- Willow or birch branches: natural, textural fillers.
- Cherry blossom branches: romantic and timeless.
- Magnolia branches: bold with broad blooms.
Unlike stems or picks, branches have an architectural quality that can stand alone. A single, tall branch in a slim vase can become an instant centrepiece, requiring very little else around it. Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd branches. Their beauty lies in negative space, allowing the shape of the branch to command attention.
Read more: Silk Flowers Explained: Quality, Realism & Why They’re a Smart Choice
4. Flower Sprays
Flower sprays are multi-stemmed clusters that branch out from a single base, making them excellent for creating fullness in arrangements. They often feature several blooms on one “spray,” giving instant volume.
Where They Shine
- Great for layering into larger arrangements.
- Useful for event backdrops or arches where big coverage is needed.
- Can serve as filler flowers while still looking elegant on their own.
Popular Types
- Baby’s breath sprays: delicate filler for weddings.
- Orchid sprays: a lush, tropical touch.
- Wisteria sprays: cascading beauty for arches and ceilings.
Sprays are particularly useful when you want to create impact without using dozens of individual stems. For example, in a bridal arch, a handful of cascading sprays can give the impression of abundance while saving time and cost. Pro Tip: Use sprays in combination with stems for depth. Stems provide focal flowers, while sprays add movement and volume.
Read more: The Timeless Allure of Silk Orchids for Any Occasion
Looking for Something Bespoke?
Sometimes, off-the-shelf arrangements just won’t do. That’s where our custom services come in. Working with a company that specialises in bespoke floral designs allows you to order arrangements tailored to your space, occasion, or personal taste.
The benefits of going bespoke include:
- Ultra-realistic: Custom designs use the highest-quality silk flowers, ensuring arrangements look fresh and lifelike.
- Tailored: Whether it’s a specific colour scheme for a wedding or a large installation for a corporate event, your arrangement is crafted to suit the setting.
- Convenience: Bespoke orders can be placed online, allowing you to create a personalised design without the hassle of in-person consultations.
- Longevity: Unlike fresh flowers, bespoke silk arrangements maintain their beauty for years, making them cost-effective in the long run.
Whether you’re hosting a special event or simply want a statement piece for your home, a custom-made design ensures your florals are one-of-a-kind.
Read more: What Are Real Touch Flowers?
Wrapping it Up
Understanding the differences between flower stems, picks, branches, and sprays is the first step in creating beautiful, cohesive floral arrangements. Stems give you flexibility and serve as the foundation, picks add fine detail and texture, branches provide height and structure, and sprays deliver instant volume and visual interest.
By combining these elements thoughtfully, you can craft arrangements that suit any space, style, or occasion. From intimate table centrepieces to grand lobby displays.
Looking for the perfect pieces to bring your vision to life? Explore our full collection online at Silk by Design, and discover high-quality flower stems, picks, branches, and sprays that make professional-looking, jaw-dropping arrangements achievable for your home, office, or event.
