If you were to come into the flower show where I work, looking for an arrangement, chances are very good that I would gently convince you to let me make a lush, dramatic, and sexy nearly-black bouquet. These deep dark burgundies are looking so good right now, and come Halloween, they'll be perfect for sophisticated (but still spooky) displays.

1. Having black orchids around the shop makes me feel like I'm surrounded by bats- they look like they could take flight at any moment. Orchids make a dramatic statement in any color, but the darkest ones are especially attention-getting.
2. Purple smokebush looks amazing in a garden, and provides excellent foliage for arrangements.
3. Ornamental millet creates vertical interest, and adds a touch of autumn-harvest style.
4. Black hellebores are nearly impossible to find cut, but they make magical additions to the garden.
5. Black pussywillow is easier to find in the spring, but if you can get it, it looks amazing on its own or in intricate arrangements.
6. The dahlias in the Bay Area are out of control right now, with 360-degrees of velvety petals in every color imaginable. The burgundy ones are especially velvety, of course.
7. Want to really make an impression? I suggest one perfect dark-as-night calla lily, presented with a smoldering gaze. Practice the gaze at home beforehand.
8. Chocolate cosmos are so darling! While most of the plants listed here tend towards the intimidating, chocolate cosmos are dainty, delicate, and full of woodland sweetness.
9. Last year, Garden Design Magazine featured their favorite (Almost) Black Plants, and I tore out the article to save in my gardening notebook. I want them all, but the blue-green-purple-black sweet potato vine in the first image is my favorite. It would look sensational trailing off the side of an arrangement.

Any other favorites?

Images: 1. allexperts.com 2. The Oregonian 3. Park Seed 4. A Way To Garden 5. Stony Point Flowers 6. Dahlia Barn 7. Lakeside Callas 8. Rural Modern Home 9. Andrew Bordwin for Garden Design Magazine