Stems of delphinium and larkspur in blue-violet tones form an arrangement that's at once subtle and opulent.

A single stem can be just as dramatic as a full bouquet. Here, a narrow-necked vessel holds a delphinium stem, and the violet-tinged glass echoes the petals' color.

Actually an assemblage of several smaller and more manageable arrangements, the setup offers an easy way to tame a fresh-from-the-garden mix of roses, hydrangeas, delphiniums, lady's mantle, scented geraniums, and potato vine. A pitcher in the center gives height, while kitchen crocks (sugar bowls, eggcups) allow the inclusion of short-stemmed beauties.

The stems of these cool-blue delphiniums were cut at various lengths to complement the container's curvy shape; the shortest stalks, inserted last, extend only a few inches into the water.

A painted galvanized watering can from the 1930s doubles as a rustic vase for delphiniums, hydrangeas, and scabiosa.