Flower Books
Flower books come in many forms, from gardening and design how-tos, to poetry, scientific writings, histories, and investigative journalism. As a floral designer and avid reader of non-fiction, it was only a matter of time before I began to amass a collection of flower books—a collection we truly have no space for in our, shall we say, cozy Manhattan apartment.
Below is a growing list, in alphabetical order, of the flower books I’ve come across that are essential additions to any flower-lovers book shelf, and proof that it’s about time for a Flower section at the bookstore.
American Wildflowers: A Literary Anthology (Susan Barba, Leanne Shapton)
A collection of poems and essays, spanning several centuries, that celebrate and feature wildflowers. I picked up this book on a whim, while I meandering through a Barnes and Noble, and it was immediately clear I had found the right book at the right time. The book opens with an excerpt from a poem by Katie Peterson: “Just yesterday I saw cracks in the earth. Yesterday brushfires followed by downpours, then immediate flooding. All the more reason to talk about flowers…”. Tucked into the pages of the book are stunning, bold watercolors by Leanne Shapton.
Cultivated: The Elements of Floral Style (Christin Geall)
A book for someone who is ready to delve into design and theory with intention and artistry. Filled with stunning photography, practical tips and recommendations, and poetic, literary reflections on floral design, Cultivated is one I come back to again and again. Christin Geall writes, “Flowers shape my years now. They are both calendar and clock, an all-consuming love I bow to as graciously as I can.”
Flower Confidential (Amy Stewart)
A fascinating exploration of the cut flower industry that, for myself at least, was a reminder of the importance of connecting with and supporting local flower growers. Though I’m sure, in the almost two decades since it was first published, the stats and figures have changed, the global flower trade has only gotten bigger, and Flower Confidential highlights the immense footprint behind that vase of grocery store tulips on your kitchen counter.
Flowers for All: Modern Floral Arrangements for Beauty, Joy, and Mindfulness Every Day (Sue McLeary)
One of my favorite flower books and a wonderful, accessible book to gift to someone who loves flowers. From simple floral meditations, to an avocado-inspired arrangement, and a floral wall of amaranth and strands of marigold, designer and educator Sue McLeary’s ideas strike a balance between delightful play and artful sophistication that is evident in much of her work. Full review here!
Strange Bright Blooms: A History of Cut Flowers (Randy Malamud)
This one led me to thinking about how we engage with flowers in deeper ways and planted the seed (pun welcome, but not intended) for my new flower publication, Floralist. Strange Bright Blooms is an exploration of art, literature, and political, social, and cultural moments through flowers.
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