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With Summer finally here it's the perfect time for a plant refresh in your home or office! Lush plants, succulents, cacti and flowering orchids new in-shop and ready for pickup or local delivery.
Enter code 'Plant20' at checkout for 20% off ALL PLANTS through Thursday July 3rd.
Shop in store or online and save on all plants now through Thursday, July 3rd!
Closed for the holiday:
July 4th- July 6th
This week only in stores & for delivery!
Get em’ while their season lasts!
Fabulously lush peonies in shades of pink and blush are arranged in a leaf-lined glass vase, the perfect gift during their short season!
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It’s Cancer season! Enjoy this quick read from Thursd!. about this zodiacs flowers!
Moon-ruled Cancerians find their essence reflected in white roses and delphiniums—blooms of devotion, shelter, and tranquil strength.
By: THURSD. | 18-06-2025 | 7 min read
Among all twelve constellations, the Cancer sign stands apart as the lunar guardian of hearth and memory. Crabs carry deep feelings beneath a composed surface and measure success by the security they give their inner circle. In floral language, two stems capture that spirit better than any others: the time-honored white roses and the stately Delphinium. Lifted straight from monastery gardens and cottage borders, these prime Cancer zodiac flowers translate tenderness and quiet resilience into perfumed form, letting every visitor sense the host’s deep-water calm without a single spoken word.
Classic Cancer personality traits read like an heirloom checklist of compassion, intuition, loyalty, and a reflex to protect. Moon-ruled natives cherish photographs, pressed petals, and handwritten recipes, storing them in cedar boxes as tactile proof of affection. One of the charming fun facts about Cancer is that many crabs entertain guests with elaborate meals using herbs from their own windowsill pots; they believe nourishment is a conversation. All of this explains why specific petals resonate so keenly. Flowers do for Cancers what diaries do for novelists: they archive emotion in color and scent, preserving the moment forever.
Astrologers and botanists agree that the official Cancer zodiac flower pairing begins with white roses. Medieval friars embroidered them on altar cloths to signify purity; modern couples still choose snowy bouquets to promise fidelity that never fades. Their velvet petals whisper serenity while hidden thorns hint at protective strength—a mirror of the Crab’s tough carapace.
The partner bloom is the Cancer birth flower, Delphinium. Its sky-pointing spikes are commonly associated with strength, yet each floret is soft as conversation at dusk. Horticultural texts trace their name to the Ancient Greek word delphínion because the buds look like leaping dolphins; gardeners still smile that Delphiniums closely resemble dolphins surfing through a sea of foliage. Whether ivory or mist-blue, every raceme stands as a lighthouse of hope for the household.
White roses carry more folklore than any other rose. Medieval bestiaries claimed that white roses represent pure devotion and offered protection at thresholds; bridal manuals later added that white roses represent everlasting loyalty. In theological art, angels cradle pale buds to announce new beginnings—a notion that perfectly matches Cancer’s instinct to shelter and renew.
Delphiniums add vertical grace to that narrative. Victorian floriographers wrote that the bloom’s tall silhouette guards children at play, reinforcing the symbolism behind the Cancer's need to nurture. When the Moon is full, petals glow; when clouds gather, stems seldom droop, reminding us that the sign rides tides with dignity.
If you intend a gift, remember that white roses are often best when numbers hold meaning: eleven for respect, twenty-four for constant presence. One towering delphinium tied in mother-of-pearl ribbon turns a familiar box of blooms into a moonlit keepsake.
For a true lunar birthday design, you can come up with some real complex ideas like designing in a crescent shape: nine white roses at the heart, three buds of lotus for reflection, and one Delphinium spire like a lighthouse guiding the next year - get help from your florist and see what fits in best. This ensemble fills the room with velvet fragrance yet leaves space for conversation—it is intimacy arranged in petals.
The Crab’s palette favors calm, but accent colors can deepen the message. A single scarlet stem reminds guests that red Alstroemerias or roses can underline devotion’s fire, while blush lisianthus nod to budding romance. What matters is proportion: let ivory and blue claim the lead while warm notes play harmony, ensuring each glance returns to the moon-lit core.
In modern counselling sessions that weave plant therapy with natal charts, practitioners share facts about flowers related to the astrological sign 'Cancer' — for instance, how the subtle scent of a Delphinium-lined hallway can trigger autobiographical memory, strengthening attachment bonds that Cancers value most. Each petal thus becomes both emblem and remedy.
Selection begins behind the Cancer birth chart with lifestyle cues. Home cooks prefer low bowls of white roses they can set beside simmering stockpots; globe-trotters love preserved Delphiniums that endure jet lag. Should your recipient adore South America, a striped accent of alstroemeria will conjure Andean markets and bright shawls, marrying adventure with nostalgia.
Professional stylists use a flower Cancer personality traits map: they weigh fragrance tolerance, light levels, and emotional triggers before proposing stems. Because Cancer is a water sign, designers keep vases three-quarters full—enough depth to echo tide pools without inviting stem rot. A final rinse in chilled water intensifies petal tint for evening events.
While white roses and Delphiniums reign, several companions illuminate subtler facets of the Crab. Moon-glazed water lilies drift on mirrored ponds, proving that lilies are unique blooms capable of opening and closing with lunar rhythm. Horticultural therapists claim that lilies possess emotional qualities ideal for meditation rooms, reinforcing Cancer’s quest for tranquillity beside water.
Equally compelling is the South-American Alstroemeria in history. Botanists recount how the 18th-century baron von Alstroemer collected seeds during a scientific voyage; legend says the Baron von Alstroemer returned to Sweden with packets of rainbow petals that soon enchanted European conservatories. Today, writers speak of Cancer zodiac flower alstroemeria symbolism, traits focusing on loyalty and adaptable love. Florists note that alstroemeria generally symbolize friendship, a perfect echo of Cancer’s devotion to its clan. Palette variety boosts personalization: yellow Alstroemeria radiates optimism for relatives starting new chapters, while red Alstroemeria underlines zeal without eclipsing the pale lunar palette. Gardeners stress that Alstroemerias are native to Andean valleys, which is why they thrive in cool night temperatures, and why catalogues still advertise that Peruvian lilies are unique for lasting two weeks in water.
Yorkshire long upheld white-rose banners to proclaim celebration, rebirth, hope, and wellness after winter famine. Monks dyed manuscripts blue with delphinium ink, embedding purity, celebration, rebirth, and hope into sacred songbooks. Across temple ponds water lilies still cradle candles each equinox. Meanwhile, South-American festivals hoist ribbons of Alstroemeria, proving that gentle petals can cross oceans and calendar pages without losing meaning. Long before photographers captured ponds, French impressionist Claude Monet created his legendary Nymphéas, expanding public adoration for water plants.
Victorian parlors traded sentences in petals: five ivory blooms promised love, friendship, and devotion more elegantly than any sonnet. Today’s florists revive the practice by pairing a tower of Delphinium with a single moon-white rose—an arrangement that whispers the birth flower white roses vow of steadfast care while the spire pledges guidance through waves.
Choose a Cancer flower with patience equal to the Crab’s own, and you will witness rooms soften, shoulders drop, and conversation bloom. No other zodiac sign channels lunar rhythm so naturally, and no other pairing matches the serenity of white roses and Delphiniums. Surround them with water lilies or Andean Alstroemerias for nuance, and let these Cancer zodiac flowers translate inner tides into living art.
Enjoy this quick read from Thursd! to help guide you on all the allergy friendly plants to add to your garden!
There are various hypoallergenic flowers that add a burst of color to your yard without making you feel itchy or congested.
By: THURSD. | 18-06-2025 | 6 min read
Whether you have a green thumb or enjoy spending time in your garden, these hypoallergenic flowers are the perfect addition to your outdoor sanctuary. Featuring different colors, shapes, and unique properties, they offer a solution for those who suffer from allergies, ensuring that you can fully enjoy your outdoor gardens without the worry of triggering a frustrating bout of sneezing. You can plant them in your garden starting today to enjoy both their beauty and non-allergic properties.
Unfortunately, the arrival of different seasons coincides with and exacerbates allergy season. As lovely as flowers are, many are also fragrant and pollen-dense; they can irritate the nose and eyes, making them unsuitable for gardeners with seasonal allergies. Don't be concerned, though! While many flowering plants can cause allergies, these eight flowers are allergy-friendly and will brighten up your yard without making your nose itchy or stuffy.
1. Hydrangea
Hydrangeas are perennial, deciduous shrubs famed for their profusion of blue, pink, and purple blossoms. These flowers are lower pollen producers, which tend to be easier on those with pollen allergies. The pollen produced by hortensias is heavy and sticky, making it less likely to become airborne and cause allergic reactions.
This is beneficial for individuals who are sensitive to pollen and experience symptoms such as sneezing, itching, or congestion. These plants also tend to bloom in the summertime, which helps to avoid additional pollen production during peak allergy season.
In addition to their low-pollen nature, hydrangeas also have large and showy flowers with tightly clustered petals. These dense flower heads further reduce the chances of pollen dispersal. As a result, the likelihood of coming into contact with hydrangea pollen is significantly lower compared to other flowering plants, minimizing the risk of triggering allergy symptoms.
The Bird of Paradise, or Strelitzia, is a great flowering shrub that is ideal for warm and tropical areas. It makes a spectacular addition to any yard, which resembles a bird in flight, making this flowering plant particularly special. But now getting to the main point, why is the flowering plant one of the eight allergy-friendly flowers to plant in your garden?
The best part is that this flower does not release airborne pollen, making it great for allergic patients. With glossy, large leaves that grow to astonishing heights, this plant grows quickly and can adapt to a variety of light intensities.
Yet another of the eight flowering plants to have in your garden is the bougainvillea. By planting bougainvillea, you can have a very colorful landscape without a doubt, plus the fact that it'll be hypoallergenic for anyone who has allergy problems when they visit your garden. The plant's low pollen production, non-airborne pollen, and attractive bracts make it an ideal choice for individuals with allergies to enjoy the beauty of nature without the discomfort of pollen-related allergic symptoms.
Hostas are versatile plants that bring a touch of green to any garden, and their sprays of purple-and-white flowers add a gorgeous element to their appeal. Hostas can serve multiple purposes, whether you choose to use them as borders, ground covers, or containers.
What makes hostas even more appealing, especially for individuals with allergies, is their hypoallergenic nature. The buds of hosta flowers do not possess a scent, which is beneficial for those who are sensitive to strong floral fragrances that can trigger allergic reactions.
Moreover, hostas produce relatively low amounts of pollen as well. The minimal pollen production of hostas helps maintain a more allergen-free environment, enabling you to fully appreciate the tranquility of your garden without worrying about allergic symptoms.
Roses have a pleasant, calming aroma that makes you want to inhale deeply every time you're near one, right? Fortunately, because it produces little pollen, this favorite garden flower is allergy-friendly and, without a doubt, one of the most popular types of flowers to plant in gardens for a very long time. Rose pollen is also dense, so it will not float through the air and cause your eyes to moisten. Avoid wild rose varieties to reduce sneezing even more, and instead, stick to cultivated kinds of roses.
Iris flowers are the perfect solution for people who want to enjoy gardening without worrying about pollen triggering their allergies.
They are popular perennials from the bulbous plant family that are ideal for allergy-friendly gardens. The pollen of the iris is found deep in the lower part of the flowers and is very heavy and sticky, preventing it from dispersing in the air and causing allergies. The pollen falls to the ground even after it is released from the flowers, making it an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.
The less pollen a plant produces, the better it'll be for allergic people. Furthermore, they are predominantly pollinated by bees and other insects rather than wind. Insect-pollinated flowers typically produce less airborne pollen, as the grains are specifically adapted to adhere to the bodies of insects for efficient pollination. As a result, the amount of tulip pollen released into the air is relatively low, decreasing the likelihood of triggering allergies in sensitive individuals. As a fact, tulips produce less airborne pollen compared to flowers like daisies, sunflowers, or lilies.
Not only that, but tulips are good for allergy sufferers because they don't have a really strong scent, which can trigger several allergic reactions among those who love getting near flowers and smelling them on first encounter. They are ideal to have in your garden if you have people with mild pollen allergies.
Just be aware that, despite these benefits, some people may be sensitive to getting 'tulip fingers', an irritating rash that can occur on hands and arms when touching tulips for a longer period, like for work or during gardening. It is also called 'tulip itch' or 'tulip nail'. The culprit is a chemical called tuliposide that is found mostly in the outer layers of tulip bulbs.
Bee balm (botanical: Monarda didyma) is one of the most beneficial flowers for allergy sufferers. The majority of bulb plants considered to be spring flowers are self-pollinating. A bee balm produces a small amount of flower pollen in the air, but it has a low allergenic potential. This means they're ideal for hypoallergenic gardens as well as flower arrangements.
Having flowers in your garden without the constant sneezing and itching is possible. Go ahead and make these a part of your backyard to make yourself and your flower lovers' eyes happy.
Whether you’re looking for a seasonal flower arrangement, a house plant or some home decor, here at Rouvalis Flowers we offer a wide variety of options to adorn your home this Summer! With the vibrant colors of fresh floral, the unique textures of house plants and the various types of home decor and gifts we have in shop, your sure to find something perfect for your home, office or a gift for a loved one!
Shop our Stem Bar
-Fresh seasonal blooms and a large variety of color and floral! Build your own bouquet or have a member of our team design one for you.
Shop House Plants
-We have many different house plants to chose from, from flowering orchids to small and large luscious green floor plants.
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-From throw pillows to large furniture we offer many types of home decor to ignite your imagination!
Shop in store now through June 21st to save 10% in store or online with promo code “Summer10”!
With longer days, warmer temperatures and plenty of sunshine, summer is the perfect time for garden plantings! Planting during this season not only allows you to enjoy beautiful blooms but enhances the aesthetic of your home during these long summer days! At Rouvalis Flowers & Gardens, our team will work closely with you to make your roof deck, containers and window boxes perfect for your home this season.
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‘Al Fresco’ arrangement from our Summer Collection
Summer is here! This Friday is the longest day of the year and what better way to celebrate than sending your friends (or yourself) fresh flowers?! Shop online with code SUMMER10 to receive 10% off your purchase or mention this blog for 10% off everything in both our Winchester and Beacon Hill locations.
Throw an impromptu soiree and send yourself this Summer Trio to add a little color to the patio.
Here's to you, Dad
Celebrate Father's Day with the gift of easy-care plants & colorful floral.
We have selected our signature products into a Gift Guide for Dads to make shopping a breeze. See our teams' top choices for Dad this year, below & more on our website. Use promo code "PlantDad" at checkout for free delivery now through Saturday 6/14!
Shop our Father’s Day page for other great gifts for Dad!
This great article from Thursd.! explains everything you need to know about peonies from the different varieties to growing the stunning flower in your garden!
By: THURSD. | 04-12-2024 | 9 min read
When spring is in season and our mood calls for colorful and seasonal flowers, it is time to start thinking about peonies flowers. The peony if known to outrageouslt bloom from spring to summer - with impressive flowers and lush foliage all season long. It is about time to gather more background information about this perennial that easily takes your breath away.
Learn all you need to know to successfully grow peonies flowers, from choosing the right variety to proper planting, caring techniques, and handling common issues for thriving peony plants.
When spring arrives, it brings along one of the most cherished blooms - peonies. Peony flowers bloom from late spring to early summer, filling gardens with impressive flowers and lush foliage. The peony season typically starts in May due to the plant's natural growth cycle and the ideal climate conditions. Peonies are perennial plants native to Asia, Europe, and North America, thriving in temperate climates with distinct seasonal changes. Here are the key factors that contribute to the blooming of peonies:
Temperature: Peonies require a period of cold dormancy in winter, followed by warming temperatures in spring, to trigger their growth and flowering. As temperatures rise in late April and early May, peonies begin to grow and eventually bloom.
Daylight: Peonies also require a specific amount of daylight to bloom. As the days get longer in spring, the increased sunlight prompts blooming.
Rainfall: Moderate rainfall in spring provides adequate moisture for peony growth and development, but too much rain can cause the plants to rot, while too little can result in poor growth.
Soil: Peonies prefer well-drained, fertile soil, which is readily available after the winter thaw.
While May is the most common month for peonies to bloom, the specific timing may vary depending on the location and climate. Some regions may see peonies blooming earlier or later, and different varieties have distinct blooming periods.
Few plants can compete with the grandeur of peonies. However, their appearance are deceptively humble when still in bud form. But come May, peonies undergo an explosive transformation as their blooms unfurl to reveal layers of delicate petals. Herbaceous peonies are the most common type, perfect for making a statement in any garden, as they die back each fall and regrow in spring.
Tree peonies, on the other hand, are woody shrubs that bloom, before herbaceous peonies. Their flowers are larger, often as big as cabbages, and require minimal support. Intersectional peonies, also known as Itoh peonies, are hybrids that combine the best traits of both types, boasting robust stems and vibrant flowers.
Peonies come in a wide array of colors, including white, pink, red, and even salmon. Some have double sets of petals, while others have single rows, adding textural interest to the garden. Their versatility makes them a favorite among floral designers, often featured in stunning arrangements highlighting innovative uses of peonies.
The peony has a rich cultural history, originating from China, where it has been cultivated as early as 7th Century. It was placed under imperial protection by Emperor Yang Ti and later declared the national flower of China in 1903.
Peonies were imported to Japan around the 8th Century, where they quickly gained ornamental significance. Japanese horticulturists cultivated numerous peony varieties with pure shades of pinks, whites, and reds. Japan also has a long history with flowers, and they have their way of representing their art and emotions with flowers. Read more about Hanakotoba - the Japanese language of flowers.
Marco Polo already spoke of these "roses as big as cabbages"; symbols of wealth and honor, love, and feminine beauty. In Europe, until 1787, the medicinal virtues of the peony were known. The Europeans remained insensitive to its charms until the introduction of an ornamental variety in England by the East India Company.
Shortly after, in France, the Chinese Emperor offered specimens of a rare peony beauty to Joséphine de Bonaparte. She was completely seduced and made them the most famous flowers in the park of Malmaison in France. It was not until the 18th Century, through missionaries, that peonies began to reach the West before an Austrian botanist Joseph Francis Rock reintroduced them at the beginning of the 20th Century. Lemoine (1823-1911) made crosses of botanical species to obtain more and more sophisticated and robust hybrids, including the variety best known today, "Paenoia Lactiflora," also called the Chinese Peony.
The best time to plant peonies is in the fall, about 6-8 weeks before the ground freezes. Fall planting allows the roots to be established well before winter sets in. Choose a sunny spot that receives at least six hours of sunlight. Peonies thrive in well-drained soil; areas with waterlogging should be avoided.
Space peonies 3-4 feet apart to ensure proper air circulation, which helps prevent disease and gives plants the room they need to grow vigorously. When planting bare root tubers, dig holes about 12-18 inches deep, adding organic matter for improved soil quality. Position the tuber with eyes facing upwards, no more than 1-2 inches below the soil surface, as deep planting can hinder blooming.
Peonies require particular attention, especially in their early years, to grow successfully and bloom to their fullest potential. During the first growing season, water peonies regularly to help them establish strong roots. Once established, they are somewhat drought-resistant but still benefit from occasional watering during dry spells.
In spring, use a balanced fertilizer to boost growth, but avoid excess nitrogen, which may lead to excessive foliage at the expense of blooms. Applying shredded bark or similar mulch around the base will retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds, which is crucial for maintaining healthy growth.
Some peonies, especially those with heavy flowers, may need staking to support the blooms. Use wire tomato cages or stakes to keep the plants upright during bloom time. For herbaceous peonies, cut back the stems in late September to prevent disease and help the plant prepare for dormancy. Tree peonies, on the other hand, should be pruned lightly in spring to remove dead or damaged branches.
The ultimate reward for peony care is witnessing their beautiful blooms. Full sun is essential for most peony plants, and without sufficient light, they may produce fewer flowers. Peonies flourish in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil, and adding organic matter like compost will enrich the soil and foster healthy growth. Fertilizing should be done sparingly, as over-fertilization can harm bloom production and weaken the stems. To maintain healthy plants, divide herbaceous peonies every 10-15 years. Dividing helps rejuvenate old plants and ensures abundant blooms.
Though peonies are generally hardy, they are not immune to problems. Powdery mildew is a common issue that manifests as a white powdery substance on the leaves, often seen in humid conditions. Good air circulation and proper spacing can help prevent this problem.
Aphids, slugs, and snails can also damage peonies, so it is important to inspect plants regularly and use organic pest control or physical barriers as needed. Heavy blooms may cause stems to droop, and staking taller peonies is recommended to provide support and prevent breakage.
Maintaining healthy peony plants involves being proactive about pests and diseases. Use integrated pest management techniques for common pests like aphids and slugs. Powdery mildew can be managed with fungicides and by maintaining proper spacing for airflow. Physical barriers such as traps can deter pests like snails and slugs, keeping peony plants healthy and vibrant.
Proper pruning and dividing are essential for maintaining healthy peonies and ensuring future blooming. Herbaceous peonies should be pruned in late fall, cutting the stems to within a few inches of the ground. Tree peonies, unlike their herbaceous counterparts, require only light pruning in the spring to remove dead or damaged wood. Dividing herbaceous peonies every 10-15 years helps to keep them vigorous and blooming. Carefully dig up the root clump and use a sharp knife to create divisions, ensuring each has at least three eyes.
Peonies thrive in well-ventilated spots, which helps minimize the risk of fungal diseases. Their rich green foliage remains attractive even after blooming, making them excellent mixed-border plants. Plant peonies alongside other perennials for a vibrant garden display. Peonies also make for stunning cut flowers, often used in elaborate floral designs, showcasing the versatility of these blooms in both garden and floral arrangements. Cut them while buds are still tight but soft, allowing them to bloom indoors for a beautiful display.
Here are some more tips that would come in handy to help you maintain a beautiful garden year-round.
If you lack garden space, peonies can also be successfully grown in containers. Use a container at least 12-18 inches deep to accommodate the root system. Ensure the container has drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix. Container-grown peonies require regular watering, but avoid overwatering as they dislike soggy roots. During winter, move the container to a sheltered spot to prevent root damage from severe cold.
There is much to enjoy about peonies beyond their beauty. Harvest peony flowers for indoor arrangements by cutting them in the early morning when buds are still closed but soft. You can also dry peonies to enjoy their beauty throughout the year—simply hang the blooms upside down in a dark, dry location until they are fully preserved.
Capture the splendor of peonies each season, as their layers of petals and rich colors make them a favorite subject for photographers. The joy of growing peonies extends beyond the garden, with their captivating fragrance and stunning appearance providing endless enjoyment. That said, let's sum it up saying 'may your peonies bloom beautifully year after year!'. Happy gardening!
It’s one of our favorite days of the year — Winchester Town Day — and we’re thrilled to be part of the celebration!
Join us today from 10 AM to 6 PM at our Rouvalis Flowers & Gardens Winchester boutique, where we’re offering exclusive Town Day deals and showcasing our expansive collection of fresh plants, flowers, and unique home goods.
Whether you're looking for a vibrant new houseplant, a seasonal floral arrangement, or that perfect gift, our shop is full of inspiration to bring beauty to your home and garden.
Our team will be on hand all day to answer questions, help you find just what you're looking for, and celebrate this vibrant community event with you.
Stop by, say hello, and let’s make this Town Day bloom!