The best flower shops in Austin

The original, family-run Mercedes Flowers opened its doors in Chihuahua, Mexico. Now in business for over 50 years—and owned by the family's third generation—you can expect the quality that comes with that kind of long-term success. The shop offers custom-made creations, from single bouquets to architecturally-inspired centerpieces, and works with consumers (yep, they do weddings) and corporate clients. Mercedes even offers jewelry and same-day delivery in the Austin area, so they’re perfect for any last-minute apology gifts.

One of the few flower shops in Austin where you can get the full flower-to-table experience, Petals, ink. is taking the term 'locally sourced' to a whole new level. In 2015, the flower shop bought seven acres of prairie land northeast of downtown. It's here that they grow small fruit trees, fields of wildflowers, and native grasses in addition to staples like ranunculus, sweet peas, anemones, zinnias, and nigella. Guests can pick up a bouquet at the shop, or sign up for flower farm workshops, like locally grown floral design classes or one-on-one instructional classes. Petals also caters to weddings and delivers.

Like plenty of trendy businesses these days, Freytag’s was started in a garage. An Austin original since 1974, they’re consistently considered one of the best floral shops in the city. As befitting a long-standing business, you can set up an account here to be reminded of special occasions and receive reward points for each dollar you spend. Freytag’s delivers in Austin and beyond, including Cedar Park and Lakeway. Make sure to check out their local specials.

Found in Hyde Park’s The Triangle, Texas Blooms offers everything you need, from wedding arrangements to single deliveries. Here, you can cover all bases with flowers, corporate gifts, and gourmet baskets, with tropical and high-end florals. Treat yourself with a flower subscription—frequencies are weekly to quarterly. This spot also hosts workshops for budding florists and runs a very handy blog with expert tips on looking after your flowers, the meanings of different species, what to look for in a corsage, and much more.

A go-to on South Congress for more than 40 years, this family-run business is perfect for Mother’s Day, birthdays, celebrations, and more. Stop here for gorgeous arrangements, but also peruse one of the largest offerings of plants and succulents in town. They offer same-day delivery, but if you can come in-store, make the most of the carry-out specials on things like large bouquets of tulips. Fur parents needn’t skip spoiling the pooch too—Ben White partners with ZilkerBark! to make adorable flower crowns for dogs.

Providing arrangements for both small and large occasions, Ali Bleu Flowers has in-house designers on hand to create the perfect bouquet. The team also makes a real spectacle of vases too, and they’re almost as exciting at the flowers themselves, such as the unicorn vases for baby bouquets and ceramic Ford pick-ups for birthday dads. Baskets and glass options are also available, and for romance, nothing says ‘happy anniversary’ better than roses and a bottle of bubbly, right? Note that for those big occasions, Ali Bleu suggests putting orders in at least two days in advance.

The Enchanted Florist is a family-owned business that has been operating in Austin for well over 25 years, serving as a staple for those needing a well-crafted bouquet. Whether you're looking for an elegant wedding arrangement or a cute succulent to give to a friend, the shop is happy to help you craft something special. They also sell gifts and balloons so you can put together a multi-tiered gift. For something lavish, check out their premium heart-shaped arrangements or the massive rainbow arrangement perfect for that ‘extra’ important someone in your life.

Austin Flower Co. is your best bet for something a little more exotic. The daily list of flora available includes over 250 different flowers, plants, and various greenery available, so you’re really spoiled for choice. They often buy directly from farms around the area and are a wholesaler for many local flower shops, weddings, and special event artists. They may not design or do deliveries, but their range of pre-made bouquets is really quite impressive. And you can walk straight into their cooler to pick the best bunch for you. Oh, and you’re doing good by shopping there as they support a lengthy list of non-profits.

Fashioning itself as a European-style flower market, Westbank Flower Markets offers custom floral designs for events, home decor, and daily deliveries south of downtown. Blooms come sourced from local regions such as the Texas Hill Country, as well as more exotic cuts from Hawaii, New Zealand, and Holland. You’ll also find dried flower arrangements here, potted blooming plants, bromeliads and wreaths.

If you’re wandering downtown, pop into Walton’s on Sixth, a neighborly cafe owned by none other than Sandra Bullock. At the back of the shop, there’s a fridge filled with seasonal blooms, from tulips to roses and sunflowers. The selection varies depending on when you come, so this is more of a spontaneous purchase after having a cup of coffee and a sweet treat from the counter. Thankfully the prices are affordable. The cafe also sells potted plants and other gifts. Crafted bouquets can also be made, but it's best to call ahead.