Nice berries for Christmas floral decoration?

[BettyButterknife]

Was thinking of getting a big batch of snowberries from the flower market at the end of this month, hoping they'll last until Christmas.

Any green-fingered florist types out there who could recommend whether they will last? Or what alternatives would be nice?

I had some red berries a couple of years back that were lovely, but I can't remember what they were called: very stiff twigs with clusters of red berries on the ends. V architectural and lovely Does that ring a bell with anyone?

are the red ones possibly juniper berries?

I have City and Guilds in Floristry. I think it would be very optimistic to think snowberries will last 3 weeks before Christmas! Even if kept in a cold shed or something. White berries tend to be a bit tender and discolour. If you really want white get them closer to Christmas. There are a lot of very good artificial white berry stems available now, mixed with real flowers and foliage they are attractive.

I think the red berries you mention are a type of holly, twigs with just berries and no leaves? It is called Ilex verticillata. These should be reasonably long-lasting, provided they are not in a very hot room or near a radiator. To get the maximum life from any cut flowers, always use florists cut flower food in the water, you can often buy a sachet or two from a florist.

Be aware that berries will drop from stems however fresh they are, and could be poisonous if eaten by a child or pet.

Yes! That's it, thanks girlywhirly - these ones.

I'm buying them for an event at work at the end of next week, and it would be great if they'll stay the course in our shop until Christmas Eve. It's a draughty old place, so sounds like they might be alright? I'll take your advice about the cut flower food.

Thank you so much