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A New Leaf: Oakleaf Flower and Garden
Written By: Luke Osteen | Issue: 2021/04 – April
Oakleaf Flower and Garden, which has become a must-visit Highlands retail destination over the last 15 years, has transformed itself into an even more beguiling Main Street gallery.
Oakleaf Flower and Garden has new digs. From its former Fourth Street location, the 15-year-old retail store is now located on Main Street – in what was the iconic Stone Lantern, opened in 1960 by Ralph deVille – an Asian art and antique dealer.
(Sidenote: in my home is a Stone Lantern piece passed to me by my grandmother.)
Digression aside, Oakleaf Flower and Garden opened in the prominent spot in February and Owner Kirk Moore said his grand plans for the space will honor deVille.
“This gives us almost four times the square feet,” said Moore. “The reason we acquired this property is that the outside is as wonderful as the inside. Ralph was a dear friend and we are honored to be carrying on a legacy and be such a part of the community.”
Oakleaf Flower and Garden is more than a retail store – it’s an experience. Moore’s knowledge and life permeates.
“I’ve been a landscape architect since the 1970s, but I also have a master’s in historic preservation. That flavor is conveyed in the store, with books on antiques and historic gardening.”
Moore’s store supports the “slow flower” movement by purchasing at least 65 percent of plants and flowers grown on the Plateau. Oakleaf also sells ornamentals, pots, orchids, decorative items, herbs, and much more.
Moore’s plans for Oakleaf’s extensive new space include using a backyard lane to display perennials and locate a greenhouse. “And there is a building in the back that we are converting into a classroom. From April through October every Sunday afternoon we will have a workshop or class. Subjects lined up are things like flower arranging, permaculture, and cooking. We have a horticulturist/permaculturist on staff and will educate about how to appreciate and maintain native mountain plants.”
Oakleaf’s award-winning website is oakleafstyle.com.
