The Best Spring Flowers in California for Bouquets and Arrangements
by Riverside Flower Studio
Spring in California is pure magic—sunshine, blue skies, and flowers blooming absolutely everywhere. Whether you’re building a bouquet for a wedding, gifting a friend, or just brightening up your space, spring is the time to dive into the world of California-grown flowers.
From bold and beautiful to soft and romantic, here are some of the best spring flowers in California that are perfect for bouquets and floral arrangements.
1. Ranunculus: The Instagram Darling
You’ve definitely seen these beauties all over your feed. Ranunculus are packed with layers of paper-thin petals and come in a rainbow of colors—from blush pink to fiery orange.
Why we love them:
They’re romantic, long-lasting, and oh-so photogenic. Plus, they grow like crazy in places like Carlsbad, so they’re easy to find fresh and local.
2. California Poppies: Pure Golden Glow
It wouldn’t be a California flower roundup without our state flower. California poppies add a splash of orange and a little wildflower charm to any arrangement.
Pro tip:
They’re delicate, so use them right away and in moderation. Even just a few can bring that iconic Cali vibe to your bouquet.
3. Sweet Peas: Soft, Scented, and Dreamy
If you’re after fragrance, sweet peas are the way to go. These pastel-colored petals not only look ethereal, but they smell amazing.
Perfect for:
Romantic, garden-style bouquets or anyone who loves vintage vibes.
4. Anemones: Bold Contrast, Big Impact
With their dark centers and vivid petals, anemones bring serious drama (the good kind). Black-and-white varieties are especially popular for modern, minimal arrangements.
Why they rock:
They’re bold without being over-the-top and pair beautifully with soft spring blooms.
5. Tulips: Always a Classic
Simple, elegant, and endlessly versatile—tulips are a spring staple. Whether you go for soft pastels or bold reds and purples, you really can’t go wrong.
Try this:
Mix tulips with ranunculus or freesias for a fresh, cheerful bouquet.
6. Freesia: Citrus-Scented Joy
Freesias don’t just look sweet—they smell incredible. These trumpet-shaped flowers come in bright, happy hues and bring a burst of energy to any arrangement.
Bonus:
They’re surprisingly long-lasting once cut, so your bouquet stays fresh longer.
7. Peonies: The Show-Stoppers
Peonies are basically the prom queens of spring flowers—lush, full, and impossibly beautiful. They’re only around for a short time, but totally worth it.
Florist’s favorite for:
Weddings, anniversaries, or anyone who loves a little floral drama.
8. Lisianthus: Under-the-Radar Elegance
If you love the look of roses but want something a little different, lisianthus is your girl. They’re soft, ruffled, and hold up really well in arrangements.
Hot tip:
They add a romantic touch without stealing the show.
9. Waxflower: The Secret Ingredient
Every bouquet needs a little texture—and that’s where waxflower comes in. These tiny blooms add volume, fragrance, and a wild, natural feel.
Best used as:
Filler flower or accent to round out your spring bouquet.
Bouquet Tips from a California Flower Fan
- Shop local: Farmers' markets and flower farms are bursting with seasonal options this time of year.
- Mix textures: Blend soft blooms with structured ones for dimension.
- Play with color: Go bold with contrasting shades or keep it dreamy with muted pastels.
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Add fragrance: A few scented blooms make the whole arrangement feel more alive.
Final Thoughts
Spring in California is a floral dream, and there's no better time to play with color, scent, and texture in your arrangements. Whether you're crafting your own bouquet or picking one up from your local florist, these blooms are sure to bring some serious seasonal joy.