Abstract
In this study, the preferences with regard to floral design in a public space and the correlation between such preferences and the image features of the floral design types were identified. Based on the review of the related literature, the floral designs placed in a public space were classified into three types(the flower bed, container, and three-dimensional sculpture types) according to physical factors, and were classified into two types(the indoor and outdoor types) according to environmental factors. In the floral-design type classified by physical and environmental factors, the flower bed and outdoor types, respectively, were highly preferred. The factor that was found to have the greatest influence on the preference for the flower bed type was 'well-orderedness', which included the adjective categories 'harmonious', 'clean', and 'simple'; that which was found to have the greatest influence on the preference for the outdoor-type floral design was 'identity', which included the adjective categories 'symbolic', 'distinctive', 'harmonious', 'impressive', and 'clean'. It can thus be concluded that the plants that are effectively displayed in a public space can express the nature and identity of the city itself, can be a yardstick for giving value to the city and for evaluating it, and can be important components of the urban landscape. A design that is suitable for the purpose of each public space and that reflects the factors that exert an influence on the users' floral-design type preference should thus be developed.