The Martha Stewart Show: Tropical Flower Arranging March 2010

THE MARTHA STEWART SHOW, MARCH 2010

When it comes to arranging tropical flowers, florist Oscar Mora lives by one mantra: Less is more.

Even on massive arrangements, he says, using just a few elements can leave a stronger impact than combining many different types of flowers.

In addition to using fresh flowers and adding flower food to the water, Oscar always adds a touch of bleach to prevent bacterial buildup. But don't use too much, and be careful not to get any on your clothes or furniture.

Suggested Arrangements

Oscar brought a few of his favorite tropical arrangements to "The Martha Stewart Show."

Arrangement 1

  • Sago palm leaves

  • Marantha leaves

  • Lady's slipper orchids

Arrangement 2

  • Bird's nest fern

  • Monstera leaves

  • Cymbidium orchids

Arrangement 3

  • Bird's nest fern

  • Cordyline

  • Croton

  • Lady's slipper orchids

  • Dendrobium orchid

Arrangement 4

  • Bird's nest fern

  • Cordyline

  • Calathea

  • Vanda orchid

  • Dendrobium orchid

  • Carnations

Martha Stewart and floral designer Oscar Mora display a variety of exotic, colorful tropical flowers like sago palms from Asia and the South Pacific
1casey altman