What greenery should I choose for my wedding flowers?
The Short Answer
Eucalyptus, ruscus, salal, and Italian ruscus are the workhorses of wedding greenery, each offering a different shape and drape. Greenery adds lush volume affordably and sets the overall mood, from airy and romantic to structured and modern.
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Why greenery is more important than couples expect
Greenery is the framework that makes flowers look intentional and full. It creates movement, fills space between focal blooms, and defines whether your look reads romantic, wild, or clean. Because greenery costs far less than premium flowers, it is also one of the smartest ways to add volume and drama on a budget. Many of our most stunning wedding arches and table runners are mostly greenery with just a scattering of flowers. Choosing the right foliage early shapes the entire aesthetic of your day.
The most popular greenery varieties
Silver dollar and seeded eucalyptus lead for their soft color and gentle drape, perfect for romantic and boho looks. Italian ruscus and ruscus offer a fresh, structured green that holds up extremely well and suits classic and modern designs. Salal, also called lemon leaf, gives broad, glossy fullness ideal for backing arrangements. Ferns lend an airy, garden feel, while olive branches and myrtle bring a Mediterranean, textured note. Each has a distinct personality, and mixing two or three creates depth without any flowers at all.
Matching greenery to your style
Let your theme guide the greenery. Trailing, cascading eucalyptus suits organic, garden, and boho weddings, especially on long tables and arches. Crisp ruscus and salal support tailored, classic, and modern designs where you want clean lines. Olive and herbs like rosemary add rustic warmth and a lovely light scent. For winter weddings, fresh evergreen, cedar, and juniper bring seasonal richness and a subtle forest fragrance. Our designers often recommend leading with one dominant greenery and adding a second for texture, mirroring how you would layer flowers.
Durability and value considerations
Greenery is generally hardy, but not all foliage is equal out of water. Eucalyptus and ruscus tolerate a long day well, while some soft, tender greens wilt faster in heat. For an outdoor Michigan summer wedding, we favor the sturdiest varieties in personal flowers and installations that sit in the sun. Greenery-heavy designs also stretch budgets beautifully — a garland of mixed eucalyptus down a farm table can look abundant for a fraction of an all-flower runner. Tell us your priorities and we will balance beauty, durability, and cost.
Planning Tips From Our Designers
- Lead with one dominant greenery and add a second for texture.
- Use trailing eucalyptus for organic looks and ruscus for clean, modern ones.
- Lean on greenery-heavy garlands to fill long tables affordably.
- Choose sturdy eucalyptus or ruscus for hot, sunny outdoor weddings.
- Add cedar and juniper for seasonal richness at winter weddings.
Planning your wedding flowers?
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