Baguio City, often referred to as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines,” is a place of enchanting beauty and cool, mild temperatures that create the perfect environment for a dazzling array of flowers. Its famous Flower Festival, an annual extravaganza, has achieved nationwide recognition, and it’s not just a visual treat but also a blooming economic boon for the city. As the city’s flowers come into full bloom in February, it’s no wonder that the festival was wisely established during this month. However, amid the exuberant parades and festivities that grace the well-trodden roads of Baguio, have you ever wondered about the flowers that flourish in this unique climate?
Let’s embark on an in-depth journey to explore the captivating Flowers of Baguio City. These are not just the beauties commonly on display during the Baguio Flower Festival, but they are also chosen for their ability to withstand the test of time, ensuring that they continue to charm and adorn the festivities.
The Flowers of Baguio City
Here are some of the flowers often seen in Baguio city.
Zinnia:
With its vibrant and assorted colors, Zinnia is a festival favorite, adding a burst of energy to the proceedings. These hardy flowers are a symbol of endurance and are often seen in festive bouquets.
Marigolds:
The cheerful and robust Marigolds are a staple at Baguio’s Flower Festival. Their sun-kissed shades of orange and yellow bring warmth to the cool February air.
Bougainvillea:
Known for its vividly hued bracts, Bougainvillea vines cascade gracefully, creating a visually stunning display that’s impossible to miss during the festivities.
African Tulips:
The African Tulip’s striking, trumpet-shaped blooms add an exotic touch to the festival. Their fiery red or orange hues create a visual spectacle that’s sure to capture your attention.
Snapdragons:
These charming flowers, named for their resemblance to dragon heads, flourish in the temperate climate of Baguio. They are often found swaying gently along the parade route.
Peas:
Sweet Peas bring a delightful fragrance and soft, pastel colors to the floral tapestry of the festival. Their dainty appearance masks their resilience in the face of Baguio’s climate.
Sunflowers:
Tall and cheerful, sunflowers stand as an emblem of optimism and adoration. Their golden faces add a ray of sunshine to the festival.
Poinsettia:
While often associated with the Christmas season, Poinsettias also make their presence felt during the Baguio Flower Festival, offering a touch of festive red and green.
Roses:
These timeless symbols of love and beauty are a familiar sight during the festival, gracing bouquets and floats with their velvety petals and exquisite fragrances.
Lavender:
Lavender’s aromatic presence adds an extra layer of sensory delight to the festivities. Their soothing scent and delicate purple blooms provide a calming contrast to the vibrant colors around.
Daisies:
These cheerful, white and yellow blooms are not only lovely but also hardy, thriving in Baguio’s mild climate and embodying the spirit of the festival’s celebration.
Cockscomb:
The distinctive appearance of Cockscomb flowers, with their velvety, crested heads, stands out prominently during the festival, adding a touch of uniqueness to the floral palette.
Cosmos:
The dainty and delicate Cosmos blooms are known for their simplicity and ethereal charm. Their presence adds an aura of serenity and grace to the festivities.
Gomphrena:
The cheerful, globe-shaped blooms of Gomphrena bring a playful and lively element to the floral showcase, often seen in cheerful arrangements.
Ageratum:
Ageratum’s fuzzy, powder-puff-like blooms are a visual treat, offering a burst of soft, cool colors that seamlessly complement the Baguio climate.
Strawflower:
Strawflowers, with their papery, everlasting blooms, symbolize endurance and longevity. They add a touch of rustic charm to the floral displays.
Calendula:
Calendulas, often referred to as “marigolds,” are distinct from their counterparts and lend a sunny disposition to the festival with their vibrant, orange and yellow petals.
Celosia:
Standard Celosia varieties, with their vibrant plumes and rich colors, hold their own amidst the floral grandeur, creating a vivid and captivating presence.
Cleome:
The whimsical Cleome, also known as “Spider Flower,” stands out with its spidery blooms, making it a fascinating addition to the festival’s bouquet of botanical wonders.
These are some of the many flowers of Baguio city, ranging from the exquisitely unique to the elegantly simple, join the previously mentioned floral stars in making the Baguio Flower Festival a visual and olfactory delight like no other. As the upcoming festival approaches, prepare to be immersed in the abundance of colors, fragrances, and natural beauty that make up the vibrant Flowers of Baguio City. Whether they are flaunting their vibrant plumes or their delicate petals, these blooms are set to enchant and mesmerize with their enduring charm.