BRANCHES…BRING NATURE INTO YOUR HOME

A branch /tree branch (sometimes referred to in botany as a ramus) is a woody structural member connected to but not part of the central trunk of a tree (or sometimes a shrub). Large branches are known as boughs and small branches are known as twigs. While branches can be nearly horizontal, vertical, or diagonal, the majority of trees have upwardly diagonal branches. Because of the enormous quantity of branches in the world, there are a Variety of names in English alone for them. In general however, unspecific words for a branch (such as rise and rame) have been replaced by the word branch itself.
Botanical names for blooming branches are:
Chaenomeles: Flowering quince. (native to China and Japan)
Forsythia: Golden bells (come from China and Eastern Europe)
Prunus: cherry blossom , plum, peach, Nectarine, Apricot, almond, (native to China and Japan)
Salix: Pussy willow, goat willow, great willow, florist’s willow, Sallow. (related to cottonwood, curly willow, aspen).(Pussy Willow is native to Eastern North America).
Spirea: Bridal Wreath.

In the flower industry the use of branches make a fabulous addition to any floral arrangement, centerpiece or craft project. Either flowering or not. They bring optimism into a room décor, offering simple and elegant table decorations and centerpieces. Flowering branches are symbolic and very decorative; they are a symbol of spring and absolutely perfect for events during this season. Creating charming floral arrangements with flowering branches are simple, eco friendly. In general , decorating with branches can dramatically transform your rooms. White, pink, purple and yellow flowers refresh your home and improve your mood, while the weather is still not cooperating. Availability of branches varies, but in general, these blooming branches are available from late winter through spring.
At Allure farms, you can find a variety of branches. Please see pictures below:
Pussy willow is a name given to many of the smaller species of the genus Salix (willows and sallows) when their furry catkins are young in early spring.
Manzanita branch characterized by smooth, orange or red bark and stiff, twisting branches. There are 106 species of manzanita, 95 of which are found in the Mediterranean climate and colder mountainous regions of California, ranging from ground-hugging coastal and mountain species to small trees up to 20 feet (6m) tall. Manzanitas bloom in the winter to early spring and carry berries in spring and summer. The berries and flowers of most species are edible.
Dogwood: They retain the vibrant red color indefinitely when harvested from April to June or October to January when they are without their summer foliage. This is when we harvest and dry our dogwood branches for the best color. This is also a great time to catch them at the peak time to preserve the dogwood branches so they will last and look brilliant for a long time in your arrangements.
Birch Branch: Birch species are small to medium size trees or shrubs.

CURLY WILLOW