The Best Flowers for Making Potpourri

Potpourri is a fragrant blend of dried flowers, herbs, spices, and essential oils used to freshen the air and decorate a space. The ideal flowers for potpourri retain their scent and shape when dried and contribute vibrant colors.

1. Rose (Rosa spp.)

Scent: Sweet, classic floral
Color: Red, pink, white, yellow
Why it’s great: Roses dry well, hold their shape, and are highly fragrant.
Tip: Use petals, not whole heads, and pair with rose essential oil to boost aroma.

2. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)

Scent: Clean, calming, herbaceous
Color: Purple to bluish-gray when dried
Why it’s great: Retains fragrance for months; ideal base for calming blends.
Tip: Hang upside down to dry or gently strip buds once dry.

3. Marigold (Calendula officinalis)

Scent: Mild, earthy
Color: Bright yellow to deep orange
Why it’s great: Holds vibrant color and adds cheerfulness.
Tip: Use petals or whole flower heads.

4. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla or Chamaemelum nobile)

Scent: Apple-like, sweet, slightly herbal
Color: White petals, yellow centers
Why it’s great: Soothing scent and charming rustic look.
Tip: Let dry completely or the heads may go moldy.

5. Violet (Viola odorata)

Scent: Light, powdery, floral
Color: Purple, blue, white
Why it’s great: Delicate scent and rich color
Tip: Combine with stronger-scented flowers for balance.

6. Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa)

Scent: Tart, fruity (when used dried)
Color: Deep red or burgundy
Why it’s great: Adds bold color and a slightly exotic note.
Tip: Best used with citrus or spice blends.

7. Peony (Paeonia spp.)

Scent: Fresh, floral, slightly citrusy
Color: Pink, red, white
Why it’s great: A luxurious floral that dries beautifully in petals.
Tip: Use petals rather than whole blooms for better drying.

8. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Scent: Earthy, herbal
Color: Yellow, pink, white
Why it’s great: Excellent at retaining shape and color.
Tip: Add to woodsy or rustic-style potpourri.

Supporting Elements to Enhance Your Potpourri

Fixatives (hold scent longer): Orris root powder, dried citrus peel, benzoin resin
Spices: Cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves
Herbs: Rosemary, mint, thyme
Essential oils: Add a few drops of matching oil (e.g., lavender oil for dried lavender) for extra fragrance

How to Make Potpourri

Dry the flowers: Hang upside down in a dry, dark place or use a dehydrator.
Mix your ingredients: Combine dried petals with herbs, spices, and a fixative.
Add essential oil: Sprinkle a few drops of oil and mix.
Cure for 1–2 weeks: Store in an airtight jar, shaking daily to let the scent meld.
Display: Once cured, display in bowls, sachets, or jars.

Recommended Potpourri Blends

Romantic Blend: Rose, lavender, peony, cinnamon stick, orris root, rose oil
Citrus & Spice: Marigold, hibiscus, orange peel, cloves, star anise, orange oil
Herbal Calm: Lavender, chamomile, yarrow, rosemary, orris root, lavender oil
Woodland Mix: Yarrow, violet, pinecones, cedar shavings, thyme, frankincense oil