Polux Fleuriste   (Photo: Robert K. Chin)

Bloom Flowers
541 Lexington Ave., nr. 50th St; 212-832-8094
A cooler in the basement houses flowers imported from all over the globe, with Dutch blossoms most prevalent. Ample orchids are on hand, too, for a generous gift that will outlast cut stems.

Castle & Pierpont
353 W. 39th St., Ste 301, nr. Ninth Ave.; 212-244-8668
This flower studio between the fashion and theater districts marries elements of both: It’s got style, and it’s got drama. Tulips, roses, gardenias, and orchids arrive from Europe and Asia weekly.

Polux Fleuriste
248 Mott St., nr. Prince St.; 212-219-9646
This quaint blue-and-white-tiled shop could be straight out of Paris. Anouchka Levy's arrangements are monochromatic, with textural flourishes like twigs of rosemary and eucalyptus.

Root Stock & Quade
297 Seventh Ave., nr. 7th St., Park Slope, Brooklyn; 718-832-1888
The shop specializes in on-a-whim floral arrangements and plants from farms in Long Island and New Jersey and international suppliers like Holland. Be sure to check out the Valentine's Day specials.

Zezé Flowers
938 First Ave., nr. 52nd St.; 212-753-7767
A favorite of Bette Midler, Sting, and Sutton Place high society for nearly 30 years, Zezé uses a variety of brilliant-colored flowers to create arrangements.