Quick answer
If you want a bouquet that stands out, ask for proteas, anthuriums, ranunculus, astrantia, amaranthus or South African fynbos varieties. Each brings a different texture, shape and story to an arrangement.
Most people default to roses when they think of sending flowers — and roses are a classic for good reason. But if you want to send something a little more memorable, there is a whole world of unusual flowers that most arrangements never use.
Below are 12 varieties worth knowing, several of which grow especially well in South Africa and show up regularly in our own arrangements.
Why choose an unusual flower variety
An arrangement built around an unexpected flower tends to feel more personal, simply because it is less common. It also signals that some thought went into the choice rather than defaulting to the first bouquet in a fridge.
Unusual varieties are also useful when the recipient has told you, in the past, that they find classic rose bouquets a little predictable.
12 flowers worth asking your florist about
Availability changes with the season, so treat this as a list to discuss with your florist rather than a guaranteed menu. Here is what each one brings to an arrangement.
- Protea — South Africa's national flower, with a bold architectural shape that works well in arrangements that need a strong focal point.
- Anthurium — glossy, heart-shaped and strikingly modern; a good choice for a contemporary gift.
- Ranunculus — layered, paper-thin petals that read as more delicate and romantic than a standard rose.
- King Protea — a larger, more dramatic protea variety suited to statement arrangements.
- Astrantia — small star-shaped flowers that add texture without overwhelming the main blooms.
- Amaranthus — trailing, tassel-like stems that add movement and drama to taller arrangements.
- Leucadendron — a South African foliage variety with a warm, structural look that pairs beautifully with proteas.
- Kangaroo paw — unusual velvety, finger-like blooms that add an unexpected textural element.
- Celosia — richly textured, almost coral-like blooms in deep reds and oranges.
- Gerbera — bold and graphic, especially in mixed colour bunches, and a cheerful alternative to roses.
- Nerine — a delicate South African bulb flower with a distinctive crystalline shimmer to its petals.
- Strelitzia (bird of paradise) — one of the most recognisably South African flowers, ideal for a bold, sculptural gift.
How to work unusual flowers into a gift
You do not need an entire bouquet of unusual blooms to make an impression. Often the most effective arrangements use one or two striking varieties — like protea or strelitzia — as a focal point, surrounded by more familiar flowers and foliage.
If you are not sure what will suit the occasion, it's worth describing the recipient and the occasion to your florist rather than naming a specific flower. A good florist can suggest a combination based on availability on the day.
Frequently asked questions
Are unusual flowers more expensive than roses?
It depends on the variety and the season. Some varieties, like strelitzia or king protea, can cost more due to lower availability, while others, like gerbera or leucadendron, are often comparable in price to roses.
Can I mix unusual flowers with a classic rose bouquet?
Yes. Combining one or two unusual varieties with classic flowers like roses or lilies is a common and effective way to create something distinctive without it feeling unfamiliar.
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Tell us the occasion and we will suggest the right mix of flowers for it.
