Monarch Flowers has long been a top supplier of various Ranunculus varieties, notably the stunning Butterfly series. This extensive line boasts over fifteen remarkable colors, made available year-round through the efforts of Coloríginz. Traditionally considered a seasonal product, the Butterfly series defies this notion, ensuring that florists and flower enthusiasts can enjoy these blooms throughout the year.
What better moment to get to know this joyful flower, now that Monarch Flowers is hosting its Open Day on the 20th of March?! Here's what you need to know.
Coloríginz Breaks Ranunculi's Seasonal Mold
Historically, Ranunculus flowers were primarily sourced from Italy, with availability spanning from late November through March. However, through strategic collaborations with growers in Kenya and the Netherlands, Coloríginz has expanded the availability of the Butterfly series to a year-round offering. As Don van der Meer of Coloríginz explains, "Most people know Ranunculus mainly from Italian growers, who had them available from late November to well into March. That's still the case, but thanks to growers in Kenya and the Netherlands, we've managed to make this flower available year-round. The Dutch season follows after the Italian season ends and runs until May, after which the Kenyan Ranunculus enters the market, completing the circle in November. In short, you'll never be without Ranunculus!"
Monarch Flowers oversees production in the Netherlands, while partners like Piazza dei Fiori and Del Golfo in Italy, and the Black Tulip Group in Kenya ensure a continuous supply throughout the year. This global cultivation network not only guarantees year-round availability but also maintains consistent quality. By working closely with Green Works, the supplier of professional summer flower cultivation materials, Coloríginz ensures that the quality of Butterfly flowers remains high, regardless of their origin.
The Allure of the Butterfly Series
The Ranunculus Butterfly series is renowned for its unique characteristics. These varieties feature single-form flowers, with each stem bearing twelve to fifteen blooms. The petals have a delicate layer of wax, giving them a subtle shimmer and extending their vase life—a feature that florists particularly appreciate. Originating from the Japanese breeder Aya Engei, the Butterfly series offers a diverse palette of colors, making them a versatile choice for various floral arrangements.
Why now is it so important to have a year-round offer of Ranunculi? The reason is simple: to stay top of mind! It is always nice to have a wonderful bouquet or a mono bunch with those romantic flowers. And... they are particularly well-suited and highly sought after for bridal arrangements due to their delicate appearance and wide range of colors. The ability to access these blooms year-round allows florists to incorporate them into wedding designs, regardless of the season. The Butterfly series, with its unique formation—that goes from single to semi-double to full double flowers with vibrant hues— adds a touch of elegance and charm to bouquets and centerpieces, making them a favorite among floral designers.
Spotlight on Notable Butterfly Varieties
The Ranunculus Butterfly series encompasses a range of captivating varieties, each with its distinct charm. Let's pick out just a few to tantalize your senses.
- Butterfly Ariadne®: This variety showcases soft pink petals that exude a gentle elegance. The single-form flowers, with five to seven blooms per stem, make 'Ariadne®' a delightful addition to any arrangement.
- Butterfly Artemis®: 'Artemis®' features golden-yellow flowers, some edged with a hint of red. This variety's rich coloration and abundant blooms make it a versatile choice for various designs.
- Butterfly Helios®: True to its name, 'Helios®' radiates with lemon-yellow flowers. The slightly darker buds add depth, and its abundant flowering makes it a bright spot in any floral display.
- Butterfly Musa®: 'Musa®' captivates with its color transformation—from red to salmon-colored buds that open into salmon-coral blooms. Its full double flowers and robust stems make it a standout choice.
- Butterfly Eris®: With soft salmon and coral hues, 'Eris®' offers double-shaped flowers that bring warmth and sophistication. Its impressive height and prolific blooming make it a favorite among florists.
Engage With Monarch Flowers During Its Open Day
Monarch Flowers is committed to fostering relationships within the floral industry. Its Open Day event marks the commencement of the Dutch season. Scheduled for Thursday, March 20, florists and industry professionals are invited to explore the full range of offerings in a festively adorned showcase. Attendees can expect to see both well-established commercial varieties and exciting new introductions. Additionally, this year's event will feature a technical debut: a new bunching machine designed to ensure optimal uniformity in bouquets, underscoring Monarch Flowers' commitment to quality and innovation.
Maintaining high standards is paramount for both Monarch Flowers and Coloríginz. Their collaboration with Green Works ensures that all planting materials meet rigorous quality benchmarks. Moreover, by engaging with growers across different regions, they can implement sustainable practices tailored to each locale. This approach not only preserves the environment but also guarantees that customers receive fresh, long-lasting flowers.
Expanding Horizons to Europe & the USA
The success of the Butterfly series has encouraged Monarch Flowers and Coloríginz to explore new opportunities. A wonderful opportunity is offered by Pope Francis, who will see the Butterfly Ranunculi in front of him during the Easter celebration in St. Peter's Square in Rome.
Plans are underway to introduce additional varieties and expand cultivation to new regions—like the US market—further enhancing the availability and diversity of their offerings. By staying attuned to market trends and customer feedback, they aim to continually evolve and meet the dynamic needs of the floral industry.
The Butterfly series exemplifies how innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to quality can transform a seasonal bloom into a year-round delight. Through the combined efforts of Monarch Flowers, Coloríginz, and their global partners, florists worldwide can now access these exquisite flowers whenever inspiration strikes. Whether you're crafting a bridal bouquet, designing a centerpiece, or simply celebrating the beauty of nature, the Butterfly series offers a spectrum of colors and forms to bring your floral visions to life.
Header and feature images by @warja_abrosimova, in collaboration with Monarch Flowers and Fidrio.
