Did you think many flowers are hard to distinguish from each other? Perhaps foliage is often even harder to tell apart. That's why here is a small explanation of the differences between Mexican cut greens Chico Doro, Chico Jumbo, and Teepee. And, for the same effort, you'll get some great tips on how to use these leaves from specialized Mexican growers and trader Adomex, who sells these lush greens under its OrcaGreen label.
The Green Gems of Mexican Foliage
The foliage Chico Doro, Chico Jumbo, and Teepee are types of decorative greenery that grow in the wild in the rainforests of Mexico and Guatemala, where they flourish under the bright but indirect light of the forest understory. This stable growing environment ensures that the leaves are not only healthy and fresh but also durable enough to withstand transport and long-lasting displays. That contributes to why they have become favorites among florists all over the world for their texture, durability, and adaptability in various floral designs. Their pliable leaves are often used to edge arrangements and add an airy elegance and a refined, fragile atmosphere to bouquets.
OrcaGreen
With Mexico’s well-established horticultural industry and a warm, tropical climate, the plants from which they are cut thrive year-round, ensuring a consistent supply of fresh-cut greenery. For its quality brand OrcaGreen, Adomex, a long-time trusted importer of all kinds of top-notch foliage, fillers, and exotic flowers, sources its two Chico varieties (also known as Chamaedorea elegans) and Teepee from indigenous communities in La Huasteca and Veracruz.
For over twenty-five years, these communities have harvested the wild palm fronds with care, ensuring quality and consistency. The process provides an important source of income for local families and supports sustainable agricultural practices in the region.
Let's take a closer look at these three versatile foliage individually and how they contribute to floral design.
Chico Doro
All Chico leaf varieties come from the Palma Camedor (a.k.a. Parlor Palm), Mexican Dwarf Palm, or Mountain Palm. In the wild, the plants form a dense bush with several offshoots.
Chico Doro is a striking variant of the standard Chico. What sets it apart is its more pronounced golden hues, which bring a touch of warmth to any arrangement. The broad, slightly glossy leaves are durable and adaptable, making them a great choice for florists looking to add a tropical element. Whether you’re designing a bouquet that embraces warm-colored flowers or need a subtle contrast with cooler tones, Chico Doro delivers. Its shiny accents can complement sun-kissed floral designs or add a unique pop of color to more neutral palettes.
Chico Jumbo
True to its name, Chico Jumbo features large, bold leaves that offer a more commanding presence in floral designs. This oversized variant of Chico is perfect for creating a lush, tropical backdrop or for use as a statement piece in larger arrangements. With its glossy green texture, Chico Jumbo adds depth and dimension to floral displays, making it a popular choice for event decor or any arrangement where you want the greenery to stand out. Its durability and long-lasting nature make it a go-to for florists looking for both visual impact and reliability.
And what would keep you from going green entirely with a Chico-only creation? This may even be more designer-like than your 'regular' bouquet. You'd definitely catch some eyes with that!
Teepee
Teepee leaves are harvested from the Chamaedorea tepejilote, also known as Pacaya Palm. Its foliage brings something entirely different to the table with its sharp, tapering leaves and upright, linear growth. Its distinctive shape makes it a standout choice for adding structure and height to arrangements, giving them a more architectural or sculptural feel. Florists often turn to Teepee for modern, minimalist designs where clean lines and form take center stage. Its sturdy nature means it can hold its own in standing arrangements, offering a solid, sleek foundation for both fresh and dried flower designs.
Texture, Color, and Versatility
As you understand, these cut greens from the OrcaGreens range offer a diverse range of textures, colors, and shapes that make them indispensable for florists. All three foliage are highly versatile, whether you’re looking to add elegance, structure, or a touch of the tropics. Their year-round availability and impressive durability mean they can be relied on to maintain their freshness and vibrancy for longer, making them the perfect choice for all kinds of floral creations. So, whether you’re aiming for a lush, green backdrop or a bold, architectural statement, these Mexican-grown foliage offer something for every design. You can count on them to bring elegance and durability to your arrangements, no matter the occasion.
All images courtesy of Adomex.
