Bishy Barnabee’s Cottage Garden
Green Flowers
The rare and elegant — chartreuse to deep emerald
Growing green flowers — your questions answered
Which flowers actually come in green?
True green flowers are unusual and prized for it. The reliables include Nicotiana Lime Green, Bells of Ireland (Moluccella laevis), Zinnia Envy, green-flowered Nigella, hellebores, and Alchemilla (Lady's Mantle). Many "green" flowers are in fact lime-yellow or chartreuse rather than pure green — worth knowing when planning a green border.
Why include green flowers in a border?
Green flowers do something no other colour can: they bridge between foliage and bloom, calming busy plantings and adding architectural quality. They make every neighbouring colour read more clearly, particularly pinks and purples. A drift of Bells of Ireland between two strong colours creates breathing space and structure simultaneously.
What pairs well with green flowers?
Almost everything. Green is the great unifier — it works with pinks, purples, whites, yellows, and oranges without competing. The most striking combinations are green with deep burgundy (Nicotiana Lime Green with Cosmos Rubenza) and green with white (Bells of Ireland with white cosmos). Both feel modern and elegant.
Are green flowers good cut flowers?
Outstandingly. Florists prize green flowers and foliage above almost anything else — they give arrangements depth and prevent them looking flat. Bells of Ireland are statement spires for tall arrangements; Alchemilla froths gorgeously among other stems; Nicotiana provides delicate height. Most green flowers also dry beautifully, holding their colour for years.