As an ardent sustainability advocate, King Charles is poised to become the first UK monarch to prioritize floral provenance in his Coronation celebrations.
This article delves into the eco-friendly, symbolic, and personal aspects of the flowers expected to feature in this historic event.
Sustainable Blooms: A Royal Commitment
King Charles has long demonstrated his passion for environmental preservation, making the incorporation of sustainable and locally sourced flowers in his Coronation a natural choice.
In 2022, he requested sustainable blooms from Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle’s gardens for the first post-pandemic state banquet.
This decision underscores his commitment to reducing the environmental impact of royal events.
United in Florals: Celebrating the Four Nations
Creative Strategist Jonathan Thorneycroft predicts that King Charles will use flowers to symbolize unity among the UK’s four nations.
Roses for England, Bluebells for Scotland, Daffodils for Wales, and Shamrocks for Northern Ireland are expected to feature prominently in the Coronation floral arrangements, highlighting the diverse and united spirit of the kingdom.
Honouring Royal Legacies: A Tribute to ‘My Darling Mama’
In paying homage to his beloved mother, Queen Elizabeth II, and his father, Prince Philip, King Charles is likely to include flowers that held special meaning for them in the Coronation arrangements.
The late Queen’s funeral featured rosemary, English Oak, Balmoral pine, and Windsor garden lavender, signifying remembrance, strength, and love.
These elements could reappear in the Coronation celebrations as a poignant tribute.
The Wildflower Coronation: A Natural Celebration
In honour of King Charles‘ Coronation, 100 wildflower meadows will be established at historic sites across England, including Stonehenge and Tintagel Castle.
These meadows, combined with the King’s existing “Meadow Gatefold” wildflower meadow at Highgrove estate, emphasize his commitment to native flora and environmental stewardship.
The Coronation Bouquet: Rich in Symbolism and Tradition
While King Charles will not carry a bouquet, Queen Camilla is expected to hold a floral arrangement brimming with symbolism.
The bouquet could feature Alchemilla Mollis, Camilla’s favourite bloom, alongside scented sweet peas, cornflowers, mint, basil, and delicate forget-me-nots.
This fresh take on a traditional British posy aligns with the streamlined nature of the Coronation celebrations.
Delphiniums: The King’s Favorite Flower
King Charles has declared his admiration for delphiniums, describing them as “magnificent” and “gloriously apparelled.”
Michael Dariane, Head of Operations at Blooming Haus, expects these striking flowers to add height and colour to the Coronation arrangements, reflecting the King’s personal taste and reinforcing the event’s positive atmosphere.
A Royal Gift: The 24K Gold Orchid
In anticipation of the Coronation, Blooming Haus‘ Master Florist Michal Kowalski has crafted a limited-edition, 24K Gold Orchid.
Each hand-gilded orchid represents the perfect fusion of luxury and nature.
As an exclusive offering from Blooming Haus, this unique creation embodies the essence of the upcoming Coronation: regal, elegant, and environmentally conscious.
Available exclusively from Blooming Haus for £145.
Images: Blooming Haus