Olympic blooms

Get a closer look at the flowers presented to the champions

Last night, after getting a bit teary watching the woman’s gymnastic team receive their gold medal, I started to wonder what’s in those pretty bouquets they’re giving out. Roses are the main ingredient, obviously. But what else?

Gina Souders, The Herbalista, was pondering the same topic. She dug up this info:

“The 2012 London victory bouquet, which is fashioned in the style of a nosegay this year, is sectioned off by four rose varieties—Illios (the yellow rose), Marie Claire (the orange rose), Wimbledon (the green rose) and Aqua (the pink rose). These four colors reflect the colors used in the London 2012 logo. In and around the colorful roses rest the fragrant apple mint, rosemary, English lavender and wheat, according to the London 2012 website.”

The designer behind the bouquets was Jane Packer. More than 4,800 of these nosegays will be handed out at the games.

My question to you: If Texas were to host the Olympics, which flowers should end up in the victory bouquet? Sunflowers immediately come to mind. Perhaps some Lupines? Liatris (Gayfeather) maybe? Comment below with your suggestions.

Photo credit: Jane Packer