The beloved story of Wicked has leaped from the stage to the big screen, becoming a popular visual feast filled with wonder, symbolism, and one unexpected star: flowers. While Wicked tells the tale of Elphaba and Glinda—two witches whose paths intertwine in friendship and rivalry—it also uses the natural beauty of flowers to weave a subtle yet powerful layer of storytelling. We promise there will be no major spoilers for the movie if you have not seen it yet!
One of the most ambitious elements of Wicked’s production was planting 9 million tulips to create the enchanting world of Munchkinland. This breathtaking floral landscape, teeming with vibrant colors and life, perfectly embodies the whimsy and joy of the Munchkins. Director Jon M. Chu insisted on practical sets to immerse audiences fully in the magical world of Oz, evoking the same wonder as the 1939 classic, The Wizard of Oz. The tulips, symbolizing the Munchkins’ deep connection to the land, cheerful nature, and resourcefulness, were planted across over 20 acres in Norfolk, England. Each flowerbed was meticulously designed with specific hues to reflect the individuality of the Munchkins and their place in Oz’s fantastical world.
The tulip colors were not chosen at random; they symbolize the distinct regions of Oz described in L. Frank Baum’s original books and Gregory Maguire’s Wicked adaptation. This thoughtful attention to detail enhances the film's authenticity, making Munchkinland feel like a living, breathing part of Oz—a character in its own right.
After filming, the tulip heads were carefully harvested and repurposed as vibrant living roofs for the Munchkins’ houses. The bulbs were planted by Norfolk Tulips, which plans to open the fields to the public next spring. This will allow visitors to experience the magic of Munchkinland in full bloom, just in time to build excitement for the release of Wicked: Part 2.
As the story unfolds, the relationship between Elphaba and Glinda blossoms both literally and metaphorically. Flowers are used throughout the film to subtly represent their evolving bond—from the budding rivalry at Shiz University to a fully bloomed yet complex friendship. Scenes featuring the two witches are often framed by flowers, with shifting colors and varieties reflecting the changing dynamics between them. Green and pink, their signature colors, are brought to life through arrangements of roses, ranunculus, snapdragons, and bougainvillea, which adorn the enchanted forest and the grounds of Shiz University, particularly during dialogue-heavy scenes.
One standout moment, which also appears in the stage version of Wicked, is during the musical number Popular. In this scene, Glinda places a pink ranunculus in Elphaba's hair as part of a makeover. The choice of a pink ranunculus is deeply symbolic—representing sympathy, admiration, and even love. This gesture marks a turning point in their relationship, as Glinda moves beyond her earlier malicious actions to genuinely connect with Elphaba. The pink bloom becomes a visual metaphor for the friendship and mutual understanding beginning to flourish between the two women.
The flowers in Wicked are more than just a decorative element—they serve as a storytelling device, weaving themes of growth, identity, and transformation into the fabric of the film. By blending the fantastical with the natural beauty of millions of tulips and countless other blooms, the movie creates an immersive experience that underscores the timeless magic of Oz. It reminds us that even in the most extraordinary tales, the beauty of nature plays an essential and unforgettable role.
At Details Flowers Software, we’ve been so inspired by the world of Wicked that we created a special collection of products designed to capture its magic. This collection features items in deep emerald greens, glimmering golds, and soft pinks and pastel hues reminiscent of Glinda’s airy presence, making it perfect for creating spellbinding arrangements.
Whether you're crafting a Wicked-themed event or simply seeking inspiration for bold and magical designs, our Wicked-inspired collection offers a touch of Broadway flair to your floral creations.
Check out our Wicked collection in your Details Account today (if you're not a Details member, start your free 7-day trial to explore this collection!) and infuse your floral work with a little Oz magic!