King Charles is known for his passion for all things green, so we were expecting some serious flower power at the coronation and boy, he didn't disappoint! Here are five ways the King's love of flowers and his commitment to sustainability were incorporated into the historic event.
The Invitations
The invitations to the King’s coronation were the first clue that flowers would play a symbolic role in the ceremony. A British wildflower meadow bordered the design and showcased the best of British springtime; cornflowers, bluebells, dog roses and that firm royal favourite, lily of the valley. The Green Man, wearing a crown of natural foliage and symbolic of spring and rebirth, was also central to the design.
The flowers at Westminster Abbey
Royal fans were treated to a glimpse of Westminster Abbey the night before when footage of the ancient naves adorned with flowers was shared on The Royal Family instagram account. "The stage is set" read the caption. It showed the Abbey, which would play host to over two thousand guests, decorated with flowers including spectacular hellebores - a flower that the King wore on his wedding day to Camilla in 2005. Honeysuckle, tulips, jasmine, rananculus and aquilegia (an ancient symbol of the Holy Spirit) also featured in the spectacular designs, created by florist Shane Connolly and Co. The colour rich palette - golds, burgundies, purples and pinks - influenced by both the hues of the High Altar and ceremonial robes.
All flowers (an impressive 120 varieties!) were provided by Flowers from the Farm, a non-profit organisation that champions British growers, with foliage from for the High Altar being gifted by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and, in line with the King's commitment to sustainability all the arrangements were free of floral foam and single use plastics.
