With Prom & Graduation coming up don’t forget to pre-order your corsage, boutonniere’s and lei’s! All available for pick in both our Beacon Hill & Winchester Shops!
Wrist Corsage
Pin-on Boutonniere
Lei
Easter & Passover Centerpieces available for pre-order!
CommentWhether you're hosting brunch, dinner or just want to brighten your home for the holiday's, we have many different arrangements to choose from!
Easter & Passover Collection Available for pick-up or delivery 4/14 through 4/19.
Drizzle
Limoncello
Spring Garden
Egg Hunt
Sprout
Rhubarb Spritz
Tulip Bowl
Tutti Frutti
Grace
Gelato
Pavlova
Robbins Egg
Mini Daffodil Plants
Hydrangea Plant
Store Hours:
Beacon Hill & Winchester: Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm
Beacon Hill open Easter Sunday, 11am-4pm
🌬️ Frost Alert: Protect Your Spring Plantings! 🌿
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Heads up, gardeners! A late frost is in the forecast for the next two nights, and your spring plantings could be at risk. Temps are expected to dip below freezing, which can cause damage to tender new growth, budding flowers, and recently planted annuals.
Here’s how to protect your garden:
1. Cover Up
Use old sheets, lightweight blankets, or frost cloths to gently cover your plants in the evening. Drape the fabric loosely and secure it with rocks or clips to keep it from blowing away. Be sure to remove the coverings in the morning once temperatures rise.
2. Water Your Plants
Moist soil holds heat better than dry soil. Give your garden a good watering during the day—this can help insulate the roots overnight.
3. Move Pots Indoors
If you’ve planted spring flowers in containers, move them into a garage or sheltered space overnight. Even a spot next to the house can offer some extra warmth.
4. Avoid Fertilizing
Hold off on any fertilizing right now. Encouraging tender new growth just before a frost can cause more harm than good.
Stay warm out there—and so should your plants! If you're unsure how to best protect a particular part of your garden, feel free to reach out to our team. We're happy to help.
How Tariffs Will Affect The Floral Industry.
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The recent implementation of broad U.S. tariffs is poised to significantly impact the American floral industry, which heavily relies on imported flowers and related supplies. On April 2, 2025, President Donald Trump announced sweeping tariffs, including a baseline 10% levy on all imports, with higher rates for specific countries—up to 54% for China and 20–25% for the European Union. Latest news & breaking headlines
Impact on Flower Imports
A substantial portion of cut flowers in the U.S. are imported, with Colombia and Ecuador being primary suppliers. In 2024, Colombia exported $1.14 billion worth of flowers to the U.S. While specific tariff rates for these countries were not detailed in the recent announcement, any imposed tariffs could increase costs for importers and, consequently, for consumers. For instance, a previous threat of a 25% tariff on Colombian roses before Valentine's Day was averted, but it highlighted the industry's vulnerability to such trade measures. AP NewsCT InsiderPhiladelphia Floral Guild -+1AP News+1
Impact on Floral Supplies
Beyond flowers, the industry depends on imported hard goods such as floral foam, containers, and packaging materials, many of which are sourced from China. The newly imposed tariffs of up to 54% on Chinese imports will likely raise the costs of these essential supplies, affecting overall profitability. Philadelphia Floral Guild -Latest news & breaking headlines
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Industry associations like the Society of American Florists (SAF) and the Association of Floral Importers of Florida (AFIF) are actively lobbying Congress to renew the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), a trade program that previously enabled duty-free access to imported flowers. Renewing the GSP could save the U.S. floral industry an estimated $20 million annually, providing stability and enabling reinvestment within the sector. Perishable News+2Garden Center+2Greenhouse Management+2Greenhouse Management+1Garden Center+1
In summary, the newly imposed tariffs are expected to increase costs within the American floral industry, affecting both imported flowers and essential supplies. By adopting proactive strategies and supporting advocacy efforts, florists can navigate these challenges and continue to thrive in a shifting trade environment.
New Spring Collection is Live!
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Spring Has Bloomed at Rouvalis Flowers and Gardens
Discover Our New Spring Floral Collection — Fresh, Local, and Global
As the days grow longer and the air gets warmer, Rouvalis Flowers and Gardens is thrilled to unveil our brand-new Spring Floral Collection — a vibrant celebration of seasonal color, texture, and fragrance.
This year, we’ve curated a stunning array of fresh blooms sourced both locally from New England farms and from trusted growers around the world. From delicate ranunculus and tulips to exotic orchids and fragrant hyacinths, each arrangement is thoughtfully designed to bring the magic of spring into your home or gift to someone special.
Whether you’re marking a special occasion, refreshing your home décor, or simply welcoming the season, our Spring Collection offers something for every style and sentiment. Expect lush, garden-inspired designs, rich with layers of seasonal beauty and the signature Rouvalis touch.
🌸 What’s in the collection?
Soft pastel palettes and bold spring brights
Garden-style arrangements in elegant vessels
Locally grown favorites like daffodils, anemones, and hellebores
Globally sourced florals for an extra-special touch
🌿 Why shop with Rouvalis this spring?
Expertly arranged by our floral designers in Boston's West End
Same-day local delivery available
Sustainably and thoughtfully sourced
Long-standing reputation for exceptional service and quality
Ready to send springtime blooms or treat yourself?
Order online today and let Rouvalis Flowers and Gardens bring the season to your doorstep.
Tulip Mania - The Rich History of the Tulip
CommentEnjoy this quick and fun read about the history of Tulips!
No flower marks the start of a new season and new beginnings quite like this one does.
By: THURSD. 26-03-2025
Photo: @photos
No flower marks the start of the spring season and new beginnings quite like the tulip does. It is a classic flower that many have loved for centuries, while attached to important meanings such as love, rebirth, and charity. Although this spring beauty is the national flower of the Netherlands, it originates from nowhere near the 'lowlands'. So, where does the tulip come from? What is 'Tulip Mania', and how did it become one of the most popular flowers in the world?
The History of the Tulip
These days, a big bunch of tulips doesn't automatically make you rich and famous in the Netherlands. But centuries ago, this was a different story. The Dutch weren't giving bunches of flowers to celebrate moving houses... instead, there were entire canal-side houses in Amsterdam that were paid for with tulip bulbs. If only that were still the case!
Nearly 50% of the 120 known tulip species are indigenous to Central Asia, as they flourish in extreme heat during the summer and endure severe cold in winter. For nomadic peoples, tulips served as a potent symbol and heralded the arrival of spring.
In the 11th century, poets from Persia extolled the tulip's beauty, and by the 14th century, wild tulips were collected and introduced into the gardens of Ottoman palaces. These gardens were probably the first place that ambassadors and envoys from Western Europe encountered them.
Mania in Turkey struck in the 16th century, at the time of the Ottoman Empire, when the Sultan demanded the cultivation of particular blooms for his pleasure. The name 'tulip' came from the Turkish word for turban.
Tulips in Turkey continued to remain popular, and in the early 18th century, the 'Age of the Tulips' or 'Tulip Era' began. There were tulip festivals, and it was a crime (punishable by exile) to buy or sell tulips outside the capital.
The flowers were then introduced into Western Europe and the Netherlands in the late 16th century, probably by Carolus Clusius, who was a biologist from Vienna, in today's Austria.
The Tulip Frenzy That Shook the World
'Tulip Mania', which is referred to as the Tulip Craze or Tulpenwindhandel (in Dutch), was an economic speculation surge involving tulip bulbs that occurred in 17th-century Holland. The flower's bulbs experienced a sudden and dizzying price increase. The interaction of supply and demand led to outrageous prices for the rarest and most desired varieties. The cost of a single flower could equal that of a whole brewery or a bride's dowry. Today, Tulip Mania is frequently referenced as the precursor to other economic 'bubbles' where prices soared in a short period and subsequently crashed.
As a little backstory, at the beginning of the 17th century, the tulip was starting to be used as a garden decoration instead of its former medicinal purposes. It soon gained major popularity as a trading product, especially in Holland. The interest in the flowers was huge, and bulbs were sold for unbelievably high prices.
Flower hybridization began with botanists, who quickly discovered methods for creating even more beautiful and ornamental specimens. Flowers that were hybrids or mutations were regarded as uncommon and indicative of elevated status. It was here, in late 1636 and early 1637, that the Netherlands experienced a full-blown 'Tulipomania'. Did you know the most expensive tulip receipts that Goldgar found were for 5,000 guilders, the going rate for a nice house in 1637?
In 1637, when people regained their sanity and ceased buying the bulbs at such inflated prices, a price crash became unavoidable. During the 17th and 18th centuries, the tulip continued to pique interest, with the Dutch emerging as its genuine connoisseurs and stockists.
Among the factors leading to the tulips' popularity was the difficulty of growing certain rare varieties. In addition, a new strand of the virus had recently affected tulip bulbs, causing the flowers to develop distinctive and appealing patterns in coloration. The short supply of these particular varieties meant an increase in demand and a rapid increase in value. During the period of the tulips' climbing value, interest rates also dropped sharply, meaning that it was possible to trade tulip 'futures' without any margin at all.
First Asset Bubble in History
It is generally considered to have been the first recorded speculative bubble or asset bubble in history. In many ways, the Tulip Mania was more of a then-unknown socio-economic phenomenon than a significant economic crisis. It had no critical influence on the prosperity of the Dutch Republic, which was one of the world's leading economic and financial powers in the 17th century.
Though the tulip 'bubble' burst and the prices went down, the tulip fever didn't go away completely. Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, interest in the tulip remained, but the Dutch became the true connoisseurs and stockists. The tulip was named the national flower, and to this day, a whopping 90% of tulips are cultivated in the Netherlands.
And Now?
A big bunch of tulips still brightens up your home, but for a truly impressive display of the flower, you'll need to travel to Holland during the spring season to visit Keukenhof and many other tulip fields. Even today, the tulip is still the most important flower for the Dutch flower industry, and almost half the bulb fields in the Netherlands are filled with endless rows of tulips.
How could these not be a favorite flower worldwide?
Photo: @masshort
For most Dutch people, seeing the tulip fields in bloom it's the truest sign that spring has arrived.
Floriography - The Hidden Flower Language Explained
CommentCheck out this fun read on floral and their meanings!
Understanding the meanings of flowers is important for interpreting fine art, literature, and even day-to-day communication.
By: THURSD. | 19-03-2025
Floriography, a best-selling book by Jessica Roux
We strive to communicate with nature's offerings by using their language. Flowers have had symbolic meaning stemming from mythology, folklore, religious beliefs, and life values ever since the beginning of time. Did you know the art and language of flowers is known as floriography? All you want to know will be explained here.
Floriography - What Does This Terminology Refer To?
This is a fun lesson to learn more about the flower world and the thousands of terminologies that make it up that you may have never heard about. The term used to describe floral language is known as 'floriography.' It was first used to describe the metaphorical significance attached to certain flowers throughout the Victorian era dating back to 1837 through 1901. The art of using flowers as symbols is called floriography, or the language of flowers. It is a coded method of flower communication.
The Art of Communicating Through Flowers
All flowers have diverse meanings, which are frequently determined by the type and color of the flower. Foriography, as previously mentioned, is the art of communicating with different types of flowers. Giving flowers as gifts becomes much more thoughtful after you discover and comprehend the significance of flowers since you can express exactly how you feel with a bouquet or a bunch of your favorite flowers. They have more significance than you thought.
Origins in Ancient Civilizations
The roots of floriography can be traced to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome. In these societies, flowers played a role in religious rituals, mythology, and daily life. The Greeks associated flowers with their gods—roses with Aphrodite, for example—while Romans used floral arrangements to symbolize wealth, power, and status.
Floral Symbolism in the Middle Ages
During the medieval period, flowers took on more spiritual and religious meanings. In Christian iconography, the lily became associated with the Virgin Mary as a symbol of purity, and red roses were linked to Christ’s sacrifice.
The Rise of Floriography in the Ottoman Empire
One of the most significant influences on modern floriography came from the Ottoman Empire in the 17th century. The 'Language of Flowers' (Selam) was practiced in Turkish courts, where flowers and their arrangements conveyed secret messages. This practice fascinated European travelers, who later introduced the concept to the West.
The Victorian Era - The Golden Age of Floriography
Floriography reached its peak in 19th-century Victorian England, where social etiquette often restricted open expressions of emotion. Flowers became a discreet way to communicate feelings—whether love, rejection, or friendship. Books on flower meanings, called 'floriography dictionaries', became widely popular. A carefully arranged bouquet could send a coded message, depending on the types of flowers used, their colors, and even the way they were positioned.
For example:
A yellow rose represented friendship or jealousy, depending on the context
A wilted flower could signify rejection or the end of a relationship
Floriography in Modern Times
While the rigid system of Victorian flower meanings has faded, the tradition of assigning symbolism to flowers continues today, very strongly. Red roses still signify endless and deep love, white lilies are common at funerals, and sunflowers are associated with happiness. The resurgence of interest in slow flowers, sustainable floristry, and botanical storytelling has brought floriography back into modern floral design and art.
More Historical Facts About Floriography
The 'Selam' language of the Turks is an eastern tongue that uses flowers and other items. Clever harem women used this covert floral language to speak to their boyfriends outside the harem. Only by affixing rhyming terms to certain objects like flowers and fruits could the code of a harem be cracked.
Some authors cite 'Selam' as the origin of flower metaphors and sentiments, however, it was more of a mnemonic system than a language of meanings. In actuality, it served as a tool for aiding in poem memorization. Selam became well-known in Europe as a system of linking flowers with symbols despite being a mnemonic system.
Much like Western floriography, eastern nations also have set meanings to their flowers. For example, the Japanese 'Hanakotoba' is a separate, independent floriography. It is an ancient Japanese art of assigning meaning to flowers.
Flowers Were Often Sent as Codes
Flowers were often sent as coded messages to the receiving party. But as the symbolism of flowers grew more nuanced, it led to misunderstandings and unpleasant situations. French publishers started publishing flower dictionaries at the start of the 19th century in an effort to decipher the meaning of flowers.
To disseminate the flower language, numerous dictionaries have been developed over time. People used to travel with dictionaries that were stuffed with the meanings that various flowers were given. There were more than one hundred floral dictionaries published worldwide in the 20th century. But through time, the significance of flowers has been lost and muddled. Today, most people are no longer aware of the significance of most flowers.
The language and symbolism of different flowers
Photo: @london_blooms
Floriography and Flower Gifting
Flowers make wonderful presents for nearly any occasion, but they become even more meaningful if you are aware of their individual meanings. Because flowers have varied meanings in various cultures, there isn't always a common language associated with them. In addition, certain flowers have symbolic meanings associated with the smells or therapeutic qualities they possess. It's also important to note that various flower colors represent various emotions.
Pay Attention to the Type and Color of the Flowers You Choose
A pro tip: consider the significance behind the type and color of flowers you choose before making a bouquet. When offering flowers as gifts, keep in mind that each flower has been given a certain meaning. Create your own hidden messages by blending your own bouquet and don't forget, flowers have a voice. You can still use floriography to convey your feelings if words fail you.
Getting Your Urban Garden Ready for Spring in Boston: A Guide by Rouvalis Flowers and Gardens
CommentAs the chill of winter begins to fade, it’s time to start preparing your urban garden for the vibrant days of spring. For Boston residents, the shift in seasons presents the perfect opportunity to refresh and rejuvenate your green spaces. Whether you have a cozy balcony garden, a rooftop oasis, or a charming courtyard, Rouvalis Flowers and Gardens is here to help you make the most of your urban garden this spring.
1. Assessing Your Garden’s Needs
Before diving into new plantings, it’s crucial to assess your garden’s current state. Check for winter damage, inspect soil quality, and remove any dead plants or debris. Revitalize your containers and beds by refreshing the soil with nutrient-rich compost to encourage healthy growth.
2. Choosing the Right Plants for Boston’s Climate
Boston’s climate presents unique challenges and opportunities. Early spring can still be chilly, so opting for hardy perennials, spring bulbs, and cool-weather vegetables is key. Consider planting:
Daffodils, tulips, and crocuses for vibrant color
Lettuce, spinach, and kale for an edible garden
Native plants that thrive in Boston’s conditions
3. Designing Your Urban Garden
Small spaces require thoughtful design. Utilize vertical gardening, tiered planters, and hanging baskets to maximize space. At Rouvalis Flowers and Gardens, we specialize in creative, space-efficient designs perfect for Boston’s urban settings.
4. Preparing Your Containers and Raised Beds
Make sure your containers have adequate drainage and are cleaned thoroughly. Raised beds should be weeded, tilled, and replenished with fresh soil. For optimal growth, consider using high-quality soil mixes tailored for container gardening.
5. Fertilizing and Watering Best Practices
In urban environments, soil can become depleted of nutrients quickly. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer and establish a regular watering schedule. Drip irrigation systems can be highly effective for busy city gardeners.
6. Partnering with Rouvalis Flowers and Gardens
Need expert guidance? At Rouvalis Flowers and Gardens, we offer custom urban garden design, installation, and maintenance services throughout the Greater Boston area. From curated plant selections to innovative designs, we’ll help you create a flourishing garden that enhances your outdoor space.
7. Get Started Today!
Ready to transform your urban garden this spring? Contact Rouvalis Flowers and Gardens to schedule a consultation and bring your vision to life. Click Here To Inquire Our Services
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Fresh, Festive Flowers from Rouvalis Flowers and Gardens
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As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, Boston comes alive with parades, parties, and plenty of green. Whether you’re celebrating your Irish heritage or simply embracing the festive spirit, there’s no better way to mark the occasion than with beautiful, vibrant floral arrangements from Rouvalis Flowers and Gardens.
Why Flowers Are Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day
Flowers aren’t just for Valentine’s Day or birthdays — they’re also a great way to brighten your home for holidays like St. Patrick’s Day! From lush green foliage to elegant white blooms with subtle hints of gold, the right arrangement can add a touch of elegance and charm to your festivities.
Our St. Patrick’s Day Floral Picks
At Rouvalis Flowers and Gardens, we have a selection of stunning flowers perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations:
Green Hydrangeas: Lush and voluminous, these blooms are a classic choice for a vibrant display.
White Roses and Tulips: Elegant and timeless, these flowers provide the perfect balance to rich greenery.
Bells of Ireland: A true symbol of luck and good fortune, these striking flowers add height and a unique texture to any arrangement.
Shamrock Plants: Bring the luck of the Irish into your home with these charming clover-like plants, perfect for both décor and gifting.
Decorate Your Home or Send a Thoughtful Gift
Whether you’re hosting a St. Patrick’s Day gathering or want to surprise a loved one with a touch of spring cheer, our floral arrangements are the perfect choice. We offer same-day delivery throughout the greater Boston area, making it easy to spread some St. Patrick’s Day joy.
Order Your St. Patrick’s Day Flowers Today!
Visit our website or call Rouvalis Flowers and Gardens to place your order. Let us help you celebrate the holiday with the freshest, most beautiful flowers Boston has to offer!
Celebrating International Women’s Day with the Beauty of Flowers
CommentAt Rouvalis Flowers and Gardens, we believe that flowers are more than just a beautiful gesture—they are a symbol of strength, resilience, and grace, just like the incredible women we celebrate on International Women’s Day.
Each year on March 8th, the world comes together to honor the achievements of women in every field, recognizing their contributions to society, business, and culture. It is also a day to reflect on the progress made toward gender equality and the work that still lies ahead.
Flowers have long been a meaningful way to express admiration and appreciation, making them the perfect gift to honor the inspiring women in our lives. Traditionally, purple, green, and white have been associated with International Women’s Day—purple representing justice and dignity, green symbolizing hope, and white standing for purity. Incorporating these colors into floral arrangements is a powerful way to pay tribute to the occasion.
At Rouvalis, we take pride in crafting stunning floral designs that capture the essence of celebration. Whether it’s a vibrant bouquet of purple tulips and white roses or a lush arrangement of mixed seasonal blooms, flowers have the ability to uplift and inspire.
This International Women’s Day, consider brightening someone’s day with a thoughtful floral arrangement. Whether you’re honoring a mother, sister, friend, mentor, or colleague, a carefully chosen bouquet is a meaningful way to show gratitude and admiration.
Join us in celebrating the remarkable women who make a difference every day. Stop by Rouvalis Flowers and Gardens or browse our selection online to find the perfect floral tribute for the strong and inspiring women in your life.
Happy International Women’s Day!