While no fresh flower lasts forever, some varieties are naturally better at going the distance and can keep your vase looking lovely for 2 weeks or more. 

Of course, the exact vase life of fresh flowers depends on their condition, environment and care. But if longevity is high on your flower wishlist, these are 5 of the longest-lasting cut flowers worth knowing.

Approximate vase life: 2–3 weeks

Chrysanthemums are the reliable overachievers of the flower world. Known for their impressive vase life, these fluffy, full-petalled blooms can stay fresh for up to three weeks with the right care. 

They come in everything from soft pastel shades to rich, vibrant colours, with plenty of shapes and textures in between. Even better, their blooms continue to open and change over time, so your arrangement keeps revealing a little more each day.

[Shop our chrysanthemums here.]

Approximate vase life: 2–3 weeks

Carnations may be a classic, but they deserve far more credit than they sometimes receive. Their layers of delicately ruffled petals bring softness and texture to a bouquet, while their strong stems help them stay beautiful for weeks.

Available in an almost endless range of colours, Carnations can feel romantic, playful or modern depending on how they’re arranged. They’re low-fuss, long-lasting and proof that a hardworking flower can still be very pretty.

Our You Beauty bouquet features carnations alongside a vibrant mix of seasonal blooms. [Shop You Beauty here.]

Approximate vase life: 2–3 weeks

Orchids look delicate, but don’t let their elegant appearance fool you. They’re surprisingly resilient cut flowers, with Cymbidium and Phalaenopsis Orchids being particularly well known for their impressive vase life. 

Their sculptural shape and intricate detail mean you don’t need many stems to make an impression. A few Orchids can instantly elevate an arrangement, bringing height, movement and a touch of something special. 

[Shop potted Orchids here.]

Approximate vase life: up to 2 weeks

Also known as Peruvian lilies, Alstroemeria are generous little bloomers. Each stem holds multiple flowers and buds, which gradually open over time and give your arrangement a fresh look as the days go by.

Their petals are often decorated with delicate markings and contrasting colours, adding plenty of detail to a bouquet. If your Alstroemeria arrives looking a little shy, give it time; the best may still be waiting to open.

Meet our Floss arrangement, filled with Alstroemeria and plenty of seasonal blooms. [Shop Floss here.]

Approximate vase life: 2–3 weeks

Leucadendron is a long-lasting native favourite, loved for its sturdy stems, rich colour and distinctive texture. Its bracts hold their shape beautifully, making it an excellent choice for arrangements that need a little structure and plenty of staying power.

As Leucadendron ages, it dries naturally while holding its shape, allowing you to enjoy it beyond its fresh vase life.

See Leucadendron in all its long-lasting glory in our vibrant You Beauty bouquet. [Shop You Beauty here.]

When you want to enjoy your flowers for longer, choosing varieties with a naturally longer vase life is the best place to start. Chrysanthemums, Carnations, Orchids, Alstroemeria and Leucadendron are all known for their staying power, helping your arrangement look beautiful well beyond the first few days.

Of course, even the longest-lasting cut flowers benefit from a little care. For more florist-approved advice, read our guide, How to Make Flowers Last Longer: 5 Florist Tips.