Te Manawa, the heart of floral art showcase in Palmerston North in May

Palmerston North Floral Art president Val de Latour (left) and member Anne Podd at the groups monthly meeting.

A floral art teapot made with foliage.

Floral art has all the elements of diversity and creativity, and there's no age limit to become an artist in floral design.

Palmerston North Floral Art member Anne Podd says members have been designing for 66 years, and with a membership of around 80, they're the biggest group in the country.

This week members in the three groups of novice, intermediate and senior designed with foliage only at their monthly meeting in the Leisure Centre in Ferguson St.

"Most people come because they want to arrange flowers," says Podd. "We try to keep up with worldwide trends and incorporate elements and ideas."

While it looks like this is a female domain, Podd said some of the leading designers in the world are men. She mentions Gregor Lersch, a German master floral artist.

Podd says PNFA president Val de Latour is an amazing teacher who holds workshops for the members.

"We learn so much from Val."

The public can see the diversity of floral art at Te Manawa The Heart Floral Art Exhibition on May 4-5 .

On display will be the National Designer of the Year along with six other competitive classes in a range of styles.

Podd says floral art incorporates a bit of carpentry, painting and sewing, and they use everything a garden produces.

"We look further than flowers - we use bark, foliage, leaves and branches."

Te Manawa - The Heart, May 4-5, Palmerston north Conference and Function Centre, 354 Main St, tickets $12, children 12 and under free, groups 10 minimum, $10 through TicketDirect.

Palmerston North Floral Art meets the second Monday of the month at the Leisure Centre, Ferguson St. Enquiries to Anne Podd, podds@inspire.net.nz