Preparing for the Exam
Study Materials:
- Download the CCF ID 100 List with 100 flower names for the Flower Identification Test
- Download the CCF ID Exam Master List with 200+ flower names
- The Art of Floral Design by Norah T. Hunter, Delmar Cengage Learning
- AIFD Guide to Floral Design: Terms, Techniques and Traditions by AIFD
- Principles of Floral Design by Pat Diehl Scace and James DelPrince
- Cut Flowers and Cut Foliage (2 books) By Su Whale
- Buying & Arranging Cut Flowers By Judith Blacklock
- Flower Arranging 2020 Edition By Teresa P Lanker
- CCF Study outline for Applicants
CCF Exam Prep Classes: Coming Soon
Written Exam
Flower Identification
From slide images, participants must write the common name of each and select the correct botanical name from a list. A list of 100 flower and plant names, of which 50 will be used in the test, will be provided upon registration.
Flower and Plant Care and Handling
This section will be comprised of a combination of short answers, matching and multiple-choice questions.
Floral Design
This section will be comprised of a combination of short answers, matching and multiple-choice questions on:
- Design elements and principles
- Color and light in floral design
- Floral design concepts and styles
- Considering the container
- Techniques and mechanics
Hands-On Design
- Flowers to wear (Corsage with demonstration of wiring technique)
- Sympathy Arrangement (Standing Easel)
- Hand-tied Bouquet (Wedding Design)
- Designer’s Choice
- Duplication Design
Judging
The completed arrangements will be judged according to:
- Design elements and principles
- Color and light in floral design
- Floral design concepts and styles
- Considering the container
- Techniques and mechanics
Download the Judging Worksheet.
The Day of the Exam – What to Bring
All flowers, greens, containers and supplies needed to complete the required designs will be provided by CCF. Each candidate will receive identical materials.
Please bring your own tools to the exam. A recommended list will be included in the information packet. No dictionaries and/or other written and/or electronic aids are allowed during testing, unless specifically required by a disability.
Results
The results of your exams will be sent to you by mail just as soon as possible, often 3-5 weeks after the exam. If you have passed the exam, your California Certified Florist Certificate of Distinction will be included.