If you're exploring floral arranging, you'll likely encounter kenzans – those spiky metal discs, also known as flower frogs – that securely hold flower stems in place. Pairing your kenzan with a proper vase is essential for achieving good results. Let’s dive into what works best.

70 mm kenzan in white ceramic bown

Why Bowls and Kenzans Are a Match Made in Floral Heaven

While any vessel that fits a flower frog can work, pairing it with a low bowl is ideal for achieving that "less is more" aesthetic. Let’s explore why bowls work so well with kenzans and how to choose the right one for your style:

  • Materials: Look for ceramic, porcelain, or metal with a sturdy base. Low glass cylinders are also great as long as they are heavy enough. Choose a vessel with a roughly 2 inches (5 cm) edge to hold enough water. Round or oval bowls create soft, romantic lines, while square or rectangular ones offer a modern edge.
  • Weight and Stability: Heavier bowls are better for kenzan arrangements, especially for tall or thick stems. Lightweight vessels can tip over easily.
  • Flat Interior: A flat bottom ensures your kenzan sits securely without tilting.

pink tulips arranged with a flower frog in a white porcelain bowl

Arranging Tips for Kenzans and Bowls

  • Anchor the Kenzan: Place it firmly at the center or slightly off-center, depending on your design. Use floral putty if needed to secure it.
  • Play with Angles: Bowls give you the freedom to angle stems dynamically, creating depth and movement. Crooked branches from your garden work beautifully for this.
  • Balance Your Design: Distribute weight evenly or create intentional asymmetry for a striking look.
  • Water Depth: Keep water just above the spikes to hydrate flowers without submerging stems. Top up water daily as flowers are thirsty!

Size Matters

The size of your vase should match both your kenzan and your arrangement style:

  • Small Kenzans: Pair with petite vases or shallow bowls for minimalist designs.
  • Large Kenzans: Use wider and deeper vases for bigger arrangements with more flowers or heavier stems.
  • Height Tip: For a balanced look, your arrangement should be 2–3 times the height of your vase. The higher the arrangement, the sturdier the base needs to be.

florist arranging pink and white fresh flowers in a large kenzan ring in a low cylindrical glass bowl

Tall, Narrow Vases

If you prefer a modern, vertical look for your flowers (like lilies), tall, narrow vases are perfect. They keep stems upright while providing side support. However, ensure your kenzan fits snugly inside to avoid positioning issues.

Tips for Pairing Your Kenzan and Vase

  • Size Matters: The kenzan should fit snugly inside the vase without being too big or small, ensuring stability.
  • Consider Height: Match the height of your flowers to the height of the vase. Tall flowers work well in taller vases, while shorter blooms shine in shallow bowls.
  • Don’t Forget Stability: If your vase is lightweight, opt for a heavier kenzan or a sturdier vessel to avoid tipping over.

Strength in Numbers

If you have only a few flower stems but want to create a big impact, try grouping. Use multiple small bowls with mini kenzans to create a cohesive yet striking display.

orange flowers secured in a mini kenzan
orange flower arrangement in three green porcelein vases

Alternatively, use several large kenzans in a wide vase for one sprawling arrangement, tied together with branches for a natural flow.

peony flowers in glass vase with flowers, arranged with three flower frogs from Hanatanba

In Conclusion

When choosing the best vase for your kenzan, focus on balance, stability, and style. Whether you opt for a low bowl or a tall vase, ensure the flower frog fits securely and complements your flowers. Experiment with shapes and sizes to express your unique vision through floral arrangements. Happy arranging!

Explore our Kenzan Flower Frogs and check out our popular small 34 mm Kenzan to get started!