Turning over a new leaf: Botanical bliss in tableware

(l) to (r): Palms dinner plate, Zak Designs, Laprima Shops (866/983-7467); Creamware collection, Macy's.

No longer second runner up to the fanciful flower, the leaf is taking first place! This summer, the motif du jour is being scattered on everything from dinnerware and glassware to placemats and serveware.

(l) to (r): Leaf place mat, Horchow; tablesetting using leaf place mat.

As seen in July’s issue of Traditional Home magazine, beautiful botanical-themed designs are bustin' out all over fabrics, rugs, furniture, and all kinds of home products.

(l) to (r): "Louis Chair" from George Smith Sofas & Chairs (212/226-4747); Ikebana collection, Gump's San Franciso.

In a variety of shapes, designs and hues, the influx of the palm tree-inspired motif is coming on strong this summer. From botanical bedrooms to tabletop, the Tropics have taken over every look this summer.(l) to (r): Smith and Hawkins new teak ottoman/side table from the Del Mar Modular collection, $299, covered in "Calder" in multi-cream by Jane Churchill, available to the trade from Cowtan & Tout (212/647-6900); Emerald Forest colored-glass dessert plates, Rolf's Cut Crystal, (724/547-7500).

Pottery Barn’s new Palm duvet cover, Tropical Leaf dinnerware at Target, LuLu DK’s Paradisco bedding collection, “Mangold" glass dessert plates, the Tropics are here; so say “Hello” to paradise! I live in New York, the summers here are too short so anything that evokes a tropical feel is welcome.

(clockwise): Mangold collection dessert plates, Sagaform; Spode Floral Garden leaf platter, Linen and Things; Handpainted botanical plates, Gump's San Franciso.

(l) to (r): Serengeti dinnerware collection, Target; Palm leaf duvet cover, Pottery Barn.

(l) to (r): Tobacco Leaf, Mottahedeh, Neiman Marcus; Paradisco Blue, LuLu DK, Pioneer Linens.

Whether the main event is on dinnerware or the dominant motif on glassware and accessory pieces, I love the fresh, carefree and natural way the leaf design is being rendered. It’s a nice way to brighten things up.

(l) to (r): Fern wall prints, Pottery Barn; Stephanie collection, Godinger, Macy's.

(l) to (r): Earth Collection, Michael Aram; Leaf dinnerware, Horchow.

I have to admit, now that I look over everything, I want to book a trip to the Islands; but then again maybe I’ll just take the subway to the New York Botanical Gardens instead. Have a great weekend everyone!