Study on Garden Tree Species Usable as Cut Flowers: Focusing on Woody Plants

Background and objective: This study analyzed woody plants among native garden tree species in South Korea that can be utilized as cut flowers, aiming to address the limited use of indigenous garden plants in the floral market. The research was motivated by the reliance of most cut flowers on naturalized plants introduced from foreign countries. Given the diverse climate and vegetation in South Korea, it is essential to evaluate the potential of native garden plants for floral applications,thereby enhancing the self-sufficiency and sustainability of the floral industry. Methods: The study investigated 367 garden tree species based on seven plant guides, and derived cut flower criteria through literature review, in-depth interviews with experts, and a survey. The usability of the four elements of garden tree species, including flowers, leaves, branches, and fruits, was analyzed. To this end, the data was analyzed using a Likert scale and descriptive statistics. Results: Of the 367 garden tree species studied, excluding the 297 species already utilized in the cut flower market, 60 of the remaining 70 species were assessed as having significant potential for use as cut flowers. Among these, 12 species were identified as highly suitable for three material categories: flowers, leaves, branches, and fruits—while 19 species exhibited potential in two categories, and 27 species were deemed suitable for one category. Notably, Malus sieboldii and Deutzia gracilis Siebold and Zucc., which demonstrated suitability across all four categories, exhibited exceptionally high potential as materials for cut flowers. Conclusion: This study identified 60 woody plants that can be used as cut flowers among garden tree species, thereby confirming the potential of garden plants in the floriculture industry. Future research will be able to provide more specific guidelines for the commercial use of garden plants and contribute to establishing practical distribution strategies.