Pompon flowers, commonly known as Poms, are a popular and distinctive feature in modern floral arrangements. They are characterized by their unique, tightly formed, globe-like bloom structure that instantly adds texture and density to any bouquet. The name is derived from the French word pompon, which historically referred to a small, ornamental tuft or decorative ball. This descriptive name perfectly captures the flower’s appearance and widespread appeal as a versatile cut flower.
Identifying Pompon Flowers
The defining characteristic of a pompon flower is its specific morphology: a tight, densely packed, globe-like or perfectly spherical structure. The petals, which are technically florets, are involute, meaning they curve inwards along their entire length. This inward curling creates a compact, seamless appearance that entirely covers the center of the bloom.
“Pompon” describes the form of the flower head, not a separate genus or species of plant. The flowers most commonly recognized as poms are specific cultivars within the Chrysanthemum and Dahlia genera. Pompom Dahlias are known for being relatively small, often measuring no more than 2 inches (5 cm) across, showcasing an incredibly intricate, orderly arrangement of petals.
Pompon Chrysanthemums, frequently called ‘mums’ or ‘spray mums’ in the trade, typically grow slightly larger, ranging from one to four inches across. The pompon designation signifies this highly symmetrical, globular shape. This precise structure distinguishes them from other flower types, such as the looser daisy or decorative forms found within the same plant families.
Common Varieties and Uses in Floral Design
Within the commercial floral market, pompon flowers are generally grouped into several sub-types based on size and structure, which are almost exclusively cultivars of the Chrysanthemum genus.
Button Poms
The smallest sub-type, Button Poms, feature compact, round heads that are sometimes small enough to appear like tiny buttons. While they maintain a globular form, some Button Poms may display a slightly more open center, resembling a miniature daisy.
Cushion Poms
Cushion Poms have a slightly different shape where the flower head appears flatter or more disk-shaped than the perfect sphere of a traditional pompon. The petals completely cover the central disk, creating a soft, textured appearance that is valued for its hardiness and versatility.
Both Button and Cushion forms are often sold as Spray Poms, which refers to their growth habit of having multiple smaller blooms, typically between four and seven, growing from a single stem.
Florists consider poms a workhorse due to their sturdiness and impressive vase life. They are utilized in design to add volume, texture, and bulk, filling space around larger focal flowers like roses.
Their wide availability in nearly every color, including white, yellow, green, pink, and bronze, makes them suitable for use in arrangements across all seasons and occasions.
Essential Care for Longevity
To maximize the vase life of cut pompon flowers, proper preparation upon receiving them is necessary. Immediately re-cut the bottom of each stem at a 45-degree angle using sharp, clean shears. This angled cut increases the surface area for water absorption and helps prevent the stem’s vascular tissues from becoming clogged with air pockets.
After cutting, place the flowers into a clean vase filled with fresh water and a commercial flower food packet. The flower food provides necessary nutrients and contains a biocide to inhibit bacterial growth.
It is also necessary to remove any foliage that would fall below the waterline in the vase. Submerged leaves decay rapidly, introducing bacteria that can clog the stems and inhibit the uptake of water.
For the longest display, position the vase in a cool location away from direct sunlight, heating or cooling vents, and drafts. Direct heat and light rapidly dehydrate the blooms, causing them to wilt prematurely.
Additionally, keep the arrangement away from ripening fruit, which releases ethylene gas that accelerates the aging process in cut flowers. Refresh the water and re-trim the stems every two to three days to maintain continuous hydration, which helps poms easily achieve a vase life of eight to twelve days or more.