Cluster flowers bloom in closely-bunched groups of little flowers and create large splashes of colour in the garden. Many of the plants that produce blooms in clusters are tropical plants that require warmer climates to thrive, but a few will tolerate cooler temperatures under the right conditions. Clusters of blooms make great cut flowers for arrangements or an easy centerpiece.
Hydrangea
The hydrangea is a perennial flowering tree that sports large clusters of small flowers. When there are 23 species of hydrangea, there are just five species that are typically grown in the USA. The most common being the Hydrangea macrophylla species. This hydrangea grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zone 6 or heavier. The bloom time for hydrangea is dependent on whether a specific cultivar blooms on new-growth timber or wood. If the plant blooms on new growth, the blooms will arrive at summer, while blooms from old growth won’t show until late summer.
Peacock Flower
The peacock flower (Abyssinian gladiolus) is a tropical blossom which performs best in USDA zones 9 or even 10, but will survive in zones 8 and 7, if mulched. It originates from Ethiopia and grows to a height of between 2 and 3 feet tall. It prefers full sunlight exposure and a well-draining dirt. Waterings ought to be routine at the growth phase, but decreased when the plant starts to flower. The peacock flower blooms in clusters of three to six flowers. Each white blossom is three inches in diameter using a burgundy-colored center.
Plumeria
Plumeria is native to warmer, tropical areas like Mexico, the Pacific Islands and the Caribbean. Plumeria flowers are best referred to as the waxy, showy blooms where Hawaiian leis are created. The plant grows as a large shrub or small tree, reaching heights of 30 to 40 feet. Plumeria blossoms from early summer to early autumn in fragrant clusters of pink, white, yellow, red or pastel mixes. The plant grows best in USDA zone 10, but can be grown in cooler climates if planted in containers and brought indoors once the temperature falls below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Plumeria makes excellent cut flowers, lasting for many days in water with no wilting.
Ixora
The Ixora, also referred to as the jungle geranium, is an evergreen tree in Asia. It thrives best in USDA zones 9 through 11, but will tolerate temperatures between 40 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit, if the land is kept dry. The Ixora starts blooming as a young plant, producing clusters of star-shaped flowers. They’ll continue to bloom all season if expired blossoms are deadheaded regularly. The Ixora performs best as a container plant and also prefers a minimum of five hours of indirect sunlight each day.