October 10, 2005

Petal Pusher

Stem

In your book, “plan” is a four-letter word.

So no wonder you find yourself in the flower section of Safeway on [insert gift-giving occasion here], choosing between a sad clump of droopy daisies and a dozen garishly packaged roses.

Which is why Stem, a new so-much-more-than flower shop, is a breath of fresh (and fragrant) air. Owner Maxine Siu (of Potrero Hill’s Bell & Trunk) puts the thought in thoughtful so you don’t have to.

Choose a sophisticated arrangement from her gorgeous selection — no carnations or baby’s breath here. Her large, vibrant roses and delicate lilies are as standard as this stock gets. Add cockscomb or scabious for an exotic flair or maybe one of the journals by Cavallini, bath products by Belle de Provence, Bullie’s men’s line, or Dani soy candles. There’s also a section of baby products, including knit jumpers by Tea Collection. Top it off with a letterpress card by Elum designs or Egg Press.

It all makes last-minute gifting totally painless.

And you couldn’t have planned it better yourself.

Stem, 3690 18th Street, between Dolores and Guerrero Streets (415-861-STEM).