Pollen Nation

Cast your imagination back 3000 years... kinda tricky, isnt it? Looking at some white lilies may help, though - theyve inspired storytellers, poets and artists since 1580 BC. But that by no means makes them behind the times.

As symbols of purity and sweetness, the spectacular ivory trumpets have been the floral guests of honour at occasions hosted by the cognoscenti of cool. Divas also demand them in their dressing room, so you can rest assured youll impress any princess with a gift of these spectacular, long-lasting flowers.

Tags: white lilies, fresh flowers

Yesterday we pooh-poohed people who tried to outdo Mother Nature; today were wondering if we werent a little hasty. KPUA.net reports that the whitecoats at Hawaii University have been pottering about with their pot plants in an attempt to create sturdier varieties of anthuriums and orchids.

But hold on, those are pretty sturdy varieties as it is. At first thought, flower lovers could hardly seem to object to longer-lasting flora, but what exactly does it entail?

Is it ethical to support genetically modified plants? Wed be interested to hear your thoughts. (For some interesting views, have a look at this article on biotechnology from The Flower Council and this one about some GM cress that can detect landmines.)

Tags: orchids, anthuriums, Hawaii, GM, ethics

You know its roses youre after, but you cant decide between white, pink or red. Come to think about it, lilies could actually be just the thing. Anyway, you know how much it is youd like to spend - although you could be tempted to pay a little more (or a little less) if you find the perfect bunch. The trouble is, pogoing between colour, price and variety pages is causing your frustrate-o-metre to go from white to pink to red.

Fear no more, flower sender, fear no more. Serenata has found the answer to your woes. At the top of each category page weve included a fancy product wizard that lets you filter the collection according to your whim. Just click on the appropriate boxes or select from the dropdown menu and the page will instantly update with the flowers that match your criteria.

Magic? Nah, its just Ajax. But the web-savvy among you will know that its just as cool.

Tags: send flowers, roses, Ajax