Rhiannon Hendricks
Planning a wedding in South Africa in May? You're in luck, as May falls within the autumn season (March to May), which is said to be the second spring when it comes to flower and foliage varieties. You'll find an abundance of flower options to choose from for your wedding, with varieties usually being more abundant than in summer. While some flowers may be seasonal, you can still find a range of colours to match your wedding theme, from soft, romantic pastels to bright summery hues. To ensure you get the flowers you want, it's best to check with your local florist about availability and whether they can source them.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Season | Autumn (March to May) |
| Colours | Lilac, purple, blue |
| Flower Types | Lisianthus, Iris, Lavender, Michaelmas Daisy/Aster, Liatris, Stocks, Sweet Pea, Hydrangea, Amnesia Rose, Gladiolus, Tulips, Statice, White and Purple Calla Lilies, Larkspur, Phalaenopsis Orchid, White and Dark Purple Proteas, Ornamental Kale, Delphiniums, Veronicas, Orchid, Purple and Blue Dendrobium Orchids |
| Availability | Flowers are usually more abundant in autumn than in summer. Some winter flowers are sewn early in hothouses and may be available before winter starts. |
| Cost | Flowers are generally less expensive in autumn due to more favourable weather conditions. |
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What You'll Learn
Popular wedding flower colours
When it comes to wedding flower colours in South Africa, couples usually opt for shades that fit their chosen theme or colour scheme. Summer is the most popular season for weddings, with colour schemes tending to focus on soft, romantic pastels or bright summery hues.
In South Africa, purple flowers are a popular choice for weddings. Purple is associated with royalty and magic, while lavender and lighter shades convey femininity, youth, and beauty. Darker purple suggests luxury, spirituality, admiration, and love. Blue flowers, which represent peace, serenity, and truth, are also sought-after for weddings, but they are quite rare and vary from shades of radiant red to calm blue. Purple and blue Dendrobium Orchids are an excellent choice for a unique and exotic look.
Dyed flowers are not typically used in South Africa as they are not sold in local flower markets. Preserved roses, on the other hand, are available in bright colours but can be quite pricey.
Some popular flower colours and the flowers that come in those shades include:
- Lilac: Lisianthus, Iris, Lavender, Michaelmas Daisy/Aster, Liatris, Stocks, Sweet Pea, Hydrangea, and Amnesia Rose.
- Purple: Lisianthus, Gladiolus, Tulips, Statice, White and Purple Calla Lilies, Larkspur, Phalaenopsis Orchid, Sweet Pea, White and Dark Purple Proteas, Hydrangea, and Ornamental Kale.
- Blue: Iris, Delphiniums, Veronicas, Orchid, and Hydrangea.
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Seasonal availability
In South Africa, May is considered part of the autumn season, which is said to be the "second spring" when it comes to flower and foliage variety. The abundance of flowers available during this season is often greater than in summer, as some winter flowers are sewn early in hothouses, extending their blooming period.
While the specific flowers available can vary by region, a variety of cut flowers can typically be sourced from local flower markets, wholesalers, floral designers, and florists. Autumn wedding flowers in South Africa may include:
- Asiatic lilies (also called Umbelatum lilies, day lilies, or tiger lilies)
- Hydrangeas (late summer, though some colours may only be available via import)
- Oriental lilies (Casablancas, white and stargazers, shades of pink, and pink/white)
Additionally, purple and blue flowers are a popular choice for weddings in South Africa. While the bright blue or dark purple flowers seen online or in international magazines are often not real, there are still options available, such as:
- Lisianthus
- Iris
- Gladiolus
- Tulips
- Statice
- White and purple Calla Lilies
- Larkspur
- Phalaenopsis Orchid
- Sweet Pea
- White and dark purple Proteas
- Hydrangea
- Ornamental Kale
It is important to consult with local florists to discuss availability and ensure the flowers meet expectations, as certain desired flowers may not be available or in season.
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Flower types
When it comes to May wedding flowers in South Africa, the variety available is usually more abundant than in summer, as some winter flowers are sewn early in hothouses. Lilac flowers, such as lisianthus, iris, lavender, Michaelmas daisies, liatris, stocks, sweet pea, and lilac roses like the Amnesia Rose, are all options. The Amnesia Rose has an antique look and feel.
Purple flowers, which can vary in shade from radiant red to calm blue, are a popular choice for weddings. While bright blue or dark purple flowers like roses, gerberas, daisies, and orchids are not naturally occurring, purple flowers like lisianthus, tulips, statice, calla lilies, and sweet pea are available in South Africa. Darker shades of purple suggest luxury, spirituality, admiration, and love, while blue flowers represent peace, serenity, and truth.
For a unique and exotic look, consider purple and blue dendrobium orchids. If you're looking for something in a blush pink, grey, and cream colour scheme, roses are a good option. Other flower colours and their meanings include white, which symbolises purity, and red, which symbolises passion.
While South Africa's flower markets don't sell dyed flowers, you can find fresh flowers like lilies, hydrangeas, and orchids at your local florist.
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Florists and wholesalers
In South Africa, the availability of flowers differs across regions and seasons. The country enjoys a lot of sunshine, with some areas receiving between 2,400 and 4,000 hours of sunshine per year. This makes summer the most popular season for weddings, with an abundance of flower varieties and generally lower prices due to favourable weather conditions. However, in drought years, flowers can become more expensive due to irrigation costs and heat damage.
For May weddings, you can expect a variety of autumn flowers to be available through flower wholesalers, floral designers, and florists. While the specific options may vary by region, you can generally find flowers such as Asiatic lilies (also known as Umbelatum lilies or day lilies), Oriental lilies (including Casablancas, white stargazers, and shades of pink), and Hydrangeas, although the deeper colours and pure white varieties may need to be imported.
When it comes to colour, purple and blue flowers are a popular choice for weddings in South Africa. However, it is important to note that the bright blue or dark purple flowers often seen online or in international magazines are usually dyed or artificial. Local florists in South Africa rarely use dyed flowers, but they can provide natural options in shades of purple and blue. For example, Lisianthus, Gladiolus, Tulips, and White and Dark Purple Proteas for a darker palette, or Iris, Delphiniums, Veronicas, and Hydrangeas for lighter shades of blue.
If you are looking for fresh flowers for a May wedding in South Africa, it is recommended to check with local florists and wholesalers to confirm availability. While dyed flowers are not commonly used in the country, florists can provide guidance on alternatives, such as preserved roses, which can sometimes come in bright colours. By consulting with local experts, you can navigate the changing seasons and floral offerings to create beautiful arrangements for your special day.
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Dyed flowers
When it comes to flowers, most brides have a colour scheme in mind for their wedding. However, it can be challenging to find flowers in South Africa that match the colour scheme, as the availability of certain flowers and colours can vary. This is especially true for dyed flowers, which are not typically sold in South African flower markets and are therefore rarely used.
If you are seeking dyed flowers for your wedding, it is essential to consult with local florists to discuss alternative options. Preserved roses, for instance, can sometimes come in bright colours, although they may be more expensive. Additionally, consider the season in which your wedding will take place, as this can influence the availability and variety of flowers. Autumn, for example, offers an abundance of flower and foliage choices, as some winter flowers are grown early in hothouses and may be available before winter begins.
To achieve your desired colour scheme, you can explore different types of flowers and their natural colours. For instance, purple flowers, ranging from radiant red to calm blue shades, are a popular choice for weddings and events. Lilac flowers, such as lisianthus, iris, lavender, and sweet pea, can add a touch of softness and romance to your wedding décor. On the other hand, darker shades of purple suggest luxury, spirituality, and love, making them ideal for creating an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere.
If you are specifically seeking blue flowers, consider natural options like iris, delphiniums, veronicas, and hydrangea. These flowers can provide a serene and peaceful touch to your wedding while still being true to the colours found in nature. Additionally, using fresh wildflowers or dried petals as confetti can add a colourful and eco-friendly element to your wedding celebrations.
Remember, while dyed flowers may not be readily available in South Africa, there are still numerous flower options to create a magical and enchanting wedding day. Consult with experienced florists in your region to explore the possibilities and design floral arrangements that align with your vision and colour preferences.
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Frequently asked questions
May is considered part of the autumn season in South Africa, and autumn is known for its abundance of flower varieties. While the specific flowers available may vary by region, you can expect to find flowers such as Asiatic lilies, hydrangeas, and Oriental lilies in bloom during this time.
Yes, there are! While dyed flowers are not typically available in South Africa, there are still plenty of naturally coloured flower options to choose from. For a May wedding, you can consider autumn-hued flowers such as lilacs, lavenders, and darker shades of purple flowers.
Purple and blue flowers are quite rare and can make for a unique and exotic choice for a wedding. Shades of purple convey different meanings, from luxury and spirituality to femininity and beauty. Blue flowers, on the other hand, represent peace, serenity, and truth.
You can typically find fresh flowers at your local flower market or through flower wholesalers, floral designers, and florists. Online platforms like Bunches for Africa also offer wholesale flower availability guides to help you choose the perfect blooms for your special day.
