August in Los Angeles is a season of vibrant warmth and golden light, and the floral world is no exception. While some gardens begin to fade, a spectacular array of flowers hits its peak, offering rich colors and dramatic textures perfect for weddings, events, and breathtaking arrangements. Understanding which flowers are in bloom in August is the secret to creating unforgettable floral designs that are both stunning and sustainable. This guide is your definitive resource for navigating the best of late-summer's harvest, curated specifically for the Southern California climate.
We will showcase the top 10 essential blooms for the month, providing expert insights for event planners, engaged couples, and floral enthusiasts alike. From the bold, cheerful Sunflower to the sophisticated Dahlia, you'll gain the knowledge to select the perfect stems for any occasion. We'll dive into actionable tips on arrangement, conditioning for longevity, and local sourcing. Learn how to leverage the season's most magnificent offerings, with practical advice on everything from vase life to pairing ideas. Discover how Fiore's same-day delivery service can bring these August beauties right to your door, ensuring your space is always filled with the freshest, most impressive seasonal flowers available.
1. Sunflowers - Bold August Showstoppers
Nothing captures the essence of a Los Angeles late summer quite like the sunflower. These iconic flowers in bloom in august are at their peak, their large, golden-yellow heads radiating pure happiness and warmth. Symbolizing adoration and longevity, sunflowers are a powerful choice for events, bringing a cheerful and optimistic energy to any setting, from rustic outdoor weddings to sophisticated corporate offices. Their impressive size and vibrant color make them a definitive showstopper.
Arrangement & Pairing Ideas
Sunflowers command attention, making them excellent focal points. For a stunning centerpiece, pair them with contrasting textures like blue thistle, solidago, and lush eucalyptus. Their height also makes them ideal for creating dramatic, tall arrangements that define a space. For a more modern look, consider a monochromatic palette using different sunflower varieties, from pale lemon to deep burgundy, creating a rich, layered effect.
Care and Conditioning Tips
To ensure your sunflowers last, proper conditioning is key. Follow these steps for a vase life of 7-12 days:
- Cut Stems: Upon arrival, trim at least one inch off the stems at a 45-degree angle under running water.
- Remove Foliage: Strip away any leaves that will fall below the waterline to prevent bacterial growth.
- Hydrate Well: Place them in a clean vase with fresh water and floral preservative. Change the water every two days.
- Provide Support: Their large heads can be heavy. Use a sturdy vase and consider a floral grid or tape to keep them upright.
For a deeper dive into what’s currently at its peak, you can explore our full guide to seasonal flowers.
2. Zinnias - Prolific August Bloomers
Zinnias are the quintessential workhorses of the late summer garden, exploding with a riot of color. These prolific annuals are some of the most reliable flowers in bloom in august, thriving in the Los Angeles heat and offering continuous blooms. With their full, rounded form and a vibrant palette ranging from deep burgundy and coral to bright orange and pink, zinnias bring a cheerful, cottage-garden charm to any setting. Their textured petals add depth and a touch of romance, making them a favorite for events that call for a natural, garden-inspired aesthetic.
Arrangement & Pairing Ideas
Zinnias’ sturdy stems and diverse colors make them incredibly versatile. For a lush, romantic centerpiece, combine them with dahlias, cosmos, and delicate greenery like maidenhair fern. Their cheerful nature shines in bright, multi-colored bouquets perfect for summer parties or corporate subscriptions. To create a softer look for a wedding, pair pastel-toned zinnias with trailing jasmine vine and Queen Anne's lace for a design that feels effortlessly elegant and freshly picked from the garden.
Care and Conditioning Tips
With proper care, zinnias can last 5-7 days in a vase. Follow these simple steps to maximize their freshness:
- Cut Stems: Cut stems early in the morning and immediately place them in water. Before arranging, re-cut the stems at a 45-degree angle.
- Remove Foliage: Strip all leaves that would sit below the waterline to keep the water clean and prevent wilting.
- Hydrate Properly: Condition the flowers in a bucket of cool water for a few hours before arranging them in a clean vase with floral preservative.
- Refresh Water: Change the vase water every other day to keep the blooms hydrated and vibrant.
For more expert advice on extending the life of your arrangements, get our top tips on how to make flowers last longer.
3. Dahlias - August's Premium Jewels
Dahlias are the sophisticated jewels of the late summer garden, reaching their peak as one of the most luxurious flowers in bloom in august. Their intricate, geometric petal formations create a stunning visual appeal that exudes opulence. With hundreds of varieties available, from petite pom-poms to grand dinner-plate sizes exceeding 12 inches, dahlias bring unparalleled texture and drama to high-end floral design. Los Angeles's warm climate allows these premium flowers to flourish throughout August and well into the fall, making them a go-to for statement arrangements.
Arrangement & Pairing Ideas
The complex structure of a dahlia makes it a natural focal point in any premium arrangement. For luxury wedding centerpieces or dramatic bridal bouquets, feature large dinner-plate dahlias alongside softer textures like garden roses, lisianthus, and delicate cosmos. Their diverse color palette, from soft blush to deep burgundy, allows for both monochromatic and high-contrast designs. Integrating dahlias into your decor is one of many fresh flower arrangement ideas that can elevate an event's aesthetic.
Care and Conditioning Tips
Dahlias have a shorter vase life of 3-7 days, so proper care is crucial to maximize their beauty. Follow these steps to keep them looking their best:
- Cut Stems: Trim stems at a sharp angle upon arrival. It's best to cut them in the cool of the early morning or evening.
- Hydrate Immediately: Place cut stems into a bucket of cool water for at least two hours before arranging. This critical step rehydrates the petals.
- Use Flower Food: Use a clean vase with fresh water and a floral preservative specifically formulated for dahlias if possible.
- Keep Cool: Display your dahlia arrangements away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and ripening fruit to extend their life.
4. Black-Eyed Susans - Cheerful August Workhorses
Black-eyed Susans, or Rudbeckia, are the cheerful, hardworking stars of the late summer garden. These delightful flowers in bloom in august feature radiant, golden-yellow petals surrounding a distinctive dark, chocolate-brown center. As a hardy native plant, they bring a touch of wild, natural beauty and incredible resilience to any floral design. Their daisy-like form adds texture and a bright, sunny disposition, making them a reliable choice for everything from casual, bohemian weddings to vibrant corporate arrangements.
Arrangement & Pairing Ideas
Black-eyed Susans offer wonderful texture and a pop of saturated color. For a sophisticated, garden-inspired look, pair them with delicate white garden roses, blue delphinium, and wispy grasses. They are fantastic "filler" flowers that also hold their own, adding a rustic charm to bouquets and centerpieces. In venue installations for outdoor summer events, they create a joyful, meadow-like feel that perfectly complements the August sunshine.
Care and Conditioning Tips
With proper care, Black-eyed Susans are exceptionally long-lasting in a vase, often for up to 10 days. Follow these simple steps:
- Harvest & Cut: Cut stems in the cool of the morning and immediately place them in water. Recut the stems at a 45-degree angle.
- Strip Leaves: Remove all foliage that would sit below the waterline in your vase to keep the water clean.
- Hydrate: Use a clean vase filled with cool water and a floral preservative packet.
- Maintain: Change the water every two to three days to prevent bacterial buildup and ensure maximum vase life.
5. Celosia (Cockscomb) - Textural August Drama
For those seeking textural drama and unconventional beauty, celosia is an absolute must-have. These fascinating flowers in bloom in august feature unique, velvety flower heads that resemble rooster combs or fiery flames, creating a striking statement in any arrangement. Available in a vibrant spectrum of deep crimson, coral, hot pink, and sunny yellow, celosia adds unexpected dimension and a touch of modern artistry. Symbolizing boldness and singularity, they are increasingly popular among contemporary florists looking to push creative boundaries.
Arrangement & Pairing Ideas
Celosia’s unique structure makes it a powerful textural element. In modern wedding designs, it can be paired with softer blooms like dahlias and roses to create a compelling contrast of form and feel. For bohemian or eclectic arrangements, mix it with pampas grass and unique greenery to enhance its artistic flair. Celosia also works wonderfully on its own in a monochromatic cluster, allowing its intricate shape to become the undisputed focal point of a contemporary centerpiece.
Care and Conditioning Tips
Celosia is remarkably long-lasting in a vase, often for up to 14 days with proper care. Follow these tips to maximize its beauty:
- Cut Stems: Trim stems at a 45-degree angle upon arrival and re-cut every few days.
- Remove Foliage: Strip any leaves that would sit below the waterline to keep the water clean and prevent bacterial growth.
- Hydrate Properly: Place stems in a clean vase filled with fresh water and a floral preservative.
- Dry for Keepsakes: Celosia dries beautifully. To preserve it, simply hang the stems upside down in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area for several weeks.
6. Lisianthus - Romantic August Elegance
With petals as delicate as crepe paper and a form that rivals the classic rose, lisianthus offers a touch of romantic sophistication. These elegant flowers in bloom in august reach their peak, showcasing lush, ruffled blossoms that exude grace. A favorite of luxury florists, lisianthus symbolizes appreciation and charm, making it a perfect choice for high-end weddings and events. Available in a dreamy palette of white, pink, lavender, and rich purples, its versatility allows it to seamlessly fit into any sophisticated design, from premium bridal bouquets to corporate gifting arrangements.
Arrangement & Pairing Ideas
Lisianthus shines when paired with other premium blooms. For a classic, romantic centerpiece, combine white and blush lisianthus with garden roses, ranunculus, and delicate sprays of waxflower. Their soft, multi-layered petals add texture and depth without overwhelming the arrangement. For a more contemporary feel, create a lush, monochromatic design using various shades of purple lisianthus complemented by deep green eucalyptus and Italian ruscus.
Care and Conditioning Tips
Lisianthus is a long-lasting cut flower, often staying fresh for 10-14 days with proper care. Follow these steps to maximize its beauty:
- Fresh Cut: Upon arrival, use a sharp knife to recut the stems at a 45-degree angle.
- Strip Leaves: Remove all foliage that would sit below the waterline to keep the water clean.
- Hydrate Properly: Place stems in a clean vase with cool water and a floral preservative specifically formulated for lisianthus.
- Avoid Bruising: Arrange the stems loosely to give the delicate blossoms space and prevent bruising the petals. Change the water every 2-3 days.
7. Asters - Delicate August Fillers with Impact
Charming and abundant, asters are among the most versatile flowers in bloom in august. These perennials feature delicate, daisy-like blooms with thin, wispy petals radiating from a bright yellow center. Their voluminous nature makes them a cost-effective choice for creating soft, full arrangements, adding texture and color without relying solely on larger, more expensive focal flowers. Available in beautiful shades of purple, pink, blue, and white, asters bring a subtle, romantic sophistication to any design.
Arrangement & Pairing Ideas
Asters excel in adding a touch of wild, cottage-garden elegance. Pair them with larger blooms like dahlias and garden roses to soften the overall look and fill out a bouquet. For a lush, textural arrangement, combine white asters with Queen Anne's lace and various types of greenery. They also work beautifully in monofloral designs, where their abundance creates a powerful, cloud-like effect perfect for modern venue installations or weekly corporate subscriptions.
Care and Conditioning Tips
With proper care, asters can have a vase life of 5-10 days. Follow these simple steps to maximize their freshness:
- Cut Stems: Trim stems at a 45-degree angle upon receiving them and re-cut every few days.
- Remove Foliage: Strip all leaves that would sit below the waterline to keep the water clean.
- Hydrate Well: Place them immediately into a clean vase filled with cool water and a floral preservative.
- Avoid Direct Sun: Keep the arrangement out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources to prevent wilting.
8. Gladiolus - Tall August Statement Flowers
Known for their impressive height and dramatic presence, gladiolus are quintessential flowers in bloom in august. These striking flowers feature a tall, elegant spike adorned with multiple trumpet-shaped blooms that open from the bottom up. Available in a vast spectrum of colors, from soft pastels to vibrant jewel tones like deep purple and fiery red, gladiolus bring a sense of grandeur and classic beauty to any floral design, making them a favorite for large-scale event installations and formal weddings.
Arrangement & Pairing Ideas
The strong vertical line of gladiolus makes them perfect for creating height and structure in arrangements. Use them as a backdrop in large ceremony pieces or as a focal point in tall, slender vases for corporate events. For a lush and romantic look, pair them with softer, rounded blooms like hydrangeas and garden roses to create a beautiful contrast in form. In modern designs, a simple grouping of gladiolus in a single, bold color can make a powerful and sophisticated statement.
Care and Conditioning Tips
With proper care, gladiolus can have a long and impressive vase life of up to two weeks as new florets continue to open.
- Cut Stems: Trim stems at a 45-degree angle upon receipt and repeat every few days.
- Harvesting: Cut the stalk when the first one or two bottom florets show color.
- Hydration: Place them in a tall, sturdy vase with fresh, cool water and floral preservative to support their height.
- Maintenance: Gently remove the lower, wilted florets as they fade. This encourages the upper buds to open and keeps the stalk looking fresh.
9. Scabiosa (Pincushion Flower) - Unique August Texture
Scabiosa, often called the pincushion flower, offers a unique and delicate charm to late-summer floral designs. As one of the more intricate flowers in bloom in august, its distinctive dome-shaped head, ringed with delicate petals and dotted with prominent stamens, adds sophisticated texture. Available in a dreamy palette of lavender, deep burgundy, soft pink, and crisp white, scabiosa brings a touch of whimsy and romantic, garden-style elegance to any arrangement. Its airy form is a favorite among contemporary designers for creating movement and depth.
Arrangement & Pairing Ideas
Scabiosa’s whimsical form makes it a perfect textural element. In romantic or bohemian bouquets, pair it with larger blooms like dahlias and lisianthus, allowing its slender stems to float above the main arrangement. For a modern look, group them en masse or combine them with grasses and seeded eucalyptus to highlight their unique shape. They serve beautifully as a secondary flower, adding detail and a soft, organic feel without overpowering the focal blooms.
Care and Conditioning Tips
With proper care, scabiosa can have a vase life of 5-7 days. Their delicate stems require gentle handling.
- Gentle Cut: Upon arrival, trim the stems at a 45-degree angle with sharp scissors or a knife.
- Remove Lower Leaves: Strip any foliage that would sit below the waterline to keep the water clean.
- Conditioning: Place the stems in a clean vase filled with cool water and flower food for at least a few hours before arranging.
- Support Needed: Their thin stems can sometimes bend. Arrange them with sturdier flowers that can provide support or use a floral frog to hold them in place.
10. Marigolds - Vibrant August Warmth
Marigolds are cheerful annuals that bring a burst of warm color to the late summer landscape. As one of the most reliable flowers in bloom in august, their dense, ruffled blooms in shades of yellow, orange, and deep red are both abundantly available and wonderfully affordable. These friendly flowers symbolize creativity and passion, adding an informal charm and vibrant energy perfect for bohemian weddings, community gatherings, or simply brightening up an office space. Their hardy nature makes them a practical and beautiful choice.
Arrangement & Pairing Ideas
Marigolds are incredibly versatile and work well as both a focal point and a filler. For a rustic, garden-inspired look, combine them with other August bloomers like zinnias, cosmos, and textured greenery. In more contemporary arrangements, their bold colors can be used to create impactful monochromatic designs or paired with contrasting deep purples and blues for a striking visual effect. They are excellent for creating lush, low-lying centerpieces or cheerful, energetic bouquets.
Care and Conditioning Tips
Marigolds are known for their longevity, and with proper care, they can last up to 10 days in a vase. Follow these simple steps:
- Cut Stems: Harvest in the cool morning and immediately place in water. Trim stems at a 45-degree angle before arranging.
- Remove Lower Leaves: Strip all foliage that would sit below the waterline to keep the water clean.
- Hydrate Simply: Place in a clean vase with fresh water. Marigolds have natural antimicrobial properties, so they require minimal floral food.
- Refresh Water: Change the water every two to three days to maximize their freshness and vibrant color.
Top 10 August Blooms Comparison
| Item | Implementation complexity | Resource requirements | Expected outcomes | Ideal use cases | Key advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers - Bold August Showstoppers | Low–Medium (staking for tall varieties) | Low water once established; supports for heavy heads; abundant supply | High visual impact; long vase life (10–14 days) | Large-scale events, outdoor summer weddings, venue décor | Bold focal presence; very affordable in August; drought-tolerant |
| Zinnias - Prolific August Bloomers | Low | Regular deadheading; consistent moisture; easy sourcing | Continuous bright blooms if deadheaded; 7–14 day vase life | Cottage/boho weddings, subscriptions, same-day orders | Heat-tolerant, wide color range, affordable and prolific |
| Dahlias - August's Premium Jewels | High (staking, tuber care, pest management) | Intensive feeding, watering, staking; higher cost; seasonal supply | Sculptural, premium focal flowers; 8–14 day vase life | Luxury weddings, high-end events, social-media-driven designs | Exceptional form and color range; premium pricing potential |
| Black-Eyed Susans - Cheerful August Workhorses | Low | Minimal water once established; low-cost, perennial supply | Cheerful texture; long vase life (10–14 days) | Budget-conscious events, corporate subscriptions, casual weddings | Very reliable, drought-tolerant, excellent value and abundance |
| Celosia (Cockscomb) - Textural August Drama | Medium | Consistent moisture; careful conditioning; moderate availability | Strong textural drama; excellent longevity (14+ days) | Modern/bohemian weddings, contemporary installations, dried designs | Unique velvet texture; long-lasting and trendy; dries well |
| Lisianthus - Romantic August Elegance | High (delicate handling, precise conditioning) | Sensitive to ethylene; cool storage and floral food; higher cost | Romantic, rose‑like look; 12–16 day vase life with care | Luxury bridal bouquets, premium corporate gifting, upscale events | Ethereal, multi-bud stems extend interest; premium aesthetic |
| Asters - Delicate August Fillers with Impact | Low | Moderate watering; prolific perennial supply; low cost | Soft, airy filler; 7–10 day individual blooms; abundant supply | Fillers for romantic bouquets, volume installations, subscriptions | Affordable prolific blooms; pairs well with many flowers |
| Gladiolus - Tall August Statement Flowers | Medium (mechanics for height, staking) | Sturdy mechanics/stakes; sequential bloom timing; moderate cost | Vertical drama with sequential opening; spike lasts 10–14 days | Formal ceremonies, tall installations, dramatic event focal points | Strong height and color range; long-lasting visual interest |
| Scabiosa (Pincushion) - Unique August Texture | Medium | Well-draining soil; moderate conditioning; moderate availability | Delicate, textured focal or secondary flower; 10–14 day vase life | Contemporary bouquets, textural accents in wedding designs | Distinctive pincushion texture; affordable luxury alternative |
| Marigolds - Vibrant August Warmth | Low | Low water needs; extremely abundant and low cost | Warm, dense blooms; 10–14 day vase life; antimicrobial water benefit | Casual/bohemian weddings, community events, volume arrangements | Very affordable, prolific in August, natural antimicrobial properties |
Bringing August's Beauty to Your LA Wedding or Event with Fiore
The late summer season in Los Angeles presents a stunning floral tapestry, rich with vibrant colors and diverse textures that can elevate any wedding, event, or personal space. As we've explored, August is not a time of scarcity but one of abundance, offering some of the year's most spectacular blooms. From the bold, sun-facing presence of Sunflowers to the intricate, geometric beauty of Dahlias, the options for creating memorable floral designs are truly exceptional.
Understanding which flowers in bloom in August allows you to make informed, sustainable, and impactful choices. By selecting seasonal stems like the prolific Zinnia, the elegant Lisianthus, or the unique Scabiosa, you ensure your arrangements are at their absolute peak of freshness and vitality. This approach not only guarantees visual splendor but also aligns with a more eco-conscious mindset, reducing the carbon footprint associated with sourcing out-of-season flowers from distant locations.
Key Takeaways for Your August Floral Designs
To maximize the beauty of this late-summer bounty, remember these core principles:
- Embrace Textural Diversity: Don't just focus on color. Combine the velvety feel of Celosia with the delicate, airy petals of Asters or the smooth, structured form of a Gladiolus spire to create arrangements with depth and interest.
- Leverage Color with Confidence: August’s palette is warm and inviting. Lean into the golden yellows of Black-Eyed Susans and Marigolds, the fiery reds of Dahlias, and the rich jewel tones of Zinnias to capture the essence of the season.
- Prioritize Proper Conditioning: The August heat can be challenging for cut flowers. Recutting stems, providing fresh water daily, and keeping arrangements out of direct sunlight are non-negotiable steps to extend their vase life and preserve their beauty.
Mastering the art of seasonal selection transforms a simple bouquet into a narrative piece, a reflection of a specific moment in time. For event planners and engaged couples, this knowledge is invaluable for creating an authentic and cohesive aesthetic that feels both luxurious and grounded. For those planning a truly seamless and elegant occasion, exploring luxury concierge services in Los Angeles can provide invaluable support for coordinating all event details, including floral design. Choosing the right flowers is the first step; bringing them together into a breathtaking final product is where expertise and artistry truly shine.
Ultimately, the flowers of August offer a powerful medium for expression. They provide the tools to craft a romantic wedding atmosphere, a vibrant corporate event, or simply a joyful arrangement to brighten your home. By embracing the season's best, you connect with the natural rhythm of the year, bringing a piece of its dynamic, sun-drenched energy indoors.
Ready to bring the vibrant beauty of August blooms to your next event or home? The expert designers at Fiore specialize in crafting bespoke arrangements using the freshest seasonal flowers available in Los Angeles. Explore our portfolio or contact us today to create something unforgettable at Fiore.
