Nairobi is famous for Valentine’s Day blooms, but lately, some people are sending cash bouquets instead of flowers. These bouquets are made by folding or rolling banknotes into floral shapes. The trend is spreading across Africa, alarming central banks in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Botswana, and Namibia. They have warned the public not to damage or deface the currency. The Central Bank of Kenya said notes are often glued, taped, or stapled, making them unusable in ATMs and sorting machines. "Banknotes damaged in this way can be rejected and withdrawn from circulation at a cost to taxpayers," the CBK said. The bank is not against giving cash gifts but highlights that damaging money is a crime that can lead to jail time up to seven years. Celebrities and influencers have popularized cash bouquets, making them a hit not just on Valentine’s but for birthdays and other events. Nairobi florist Angela Muthoni says she gets up to 20 orders daily before Valentine’s. "Everyone loves money," she told the BBC, adding cash gifts reduce the stress of picking presents. However, some Kenyans, like 24-year-old Haskell Austin, call it materialistic and prefer flowers. Others, like student Benjamin Nambwaya, worry cash bouquets may raise pressure and harm relationships. Economic expert Odhiambo Ramogi links the trend to a capitalistic lifestyle, noting flowers are a Western tradition and many Africans prefer money as a practical gift. Despite the warnings, cash bouquets remain popular. Some florists are innovating with non-damaging holders and even using US dollars to avoid problems. The cash bouquet craze is unlikely to fade soon, blending tradition, money, and love in colorful new ways.