Lisianthus
The Lisianthus resembles a rose with its tightly closed buds on long stems. As the flower opens, the ruffled petals give the flower the grace and charm of a wild rose. The multi-branched stems have several buds that open successively. Colors include white, lavender, purple, pink or bi-colors. Flowers are cupped, about 2 inches (5 cm) in diamter and up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) long.
Family: Gentianaceae
Species: Eustoma Grandiflorum
Origin: Native to the Great Plains of North America, most notably Texas.
Symbolizes: Lisianthus represents gratefulness, charisma, respect, love, acceptance and acknowledgement.
Also Known As: Prairie Gentian
Care, Handling & Design
Temperature: 34-38 F (1-3 C)
Humidity: 75-85%
Water: Medium water quality. Avoid softened water.
Vase Life: 14-21 days
What to Look for When Purchasing
Stems are generally 16-24 inches long (41-61 cm) with leaves and many branchlets with flowers at many stages. Choose stems with 1 - 3 flowers open and avoid any stems with leaf yellowing. Leaf miners and damage to the flower are obvious quality defects. Lisianthus is sensitive to gravity, and stems will bend upwards if the flowers are held horizontal at ambient temperatures.
Foam Info
Prone to wilting. Make sure flowers are well hydrated before using in foam design. Make sure foam is kept well hydrated.
Design Tips
Well hydrated Lisianthus offer a unique design element, elegant yet wild they can be used mixed with other flowers or in large bunches for a magnificent display with incredible vase life. A main feature of the Lisianthus is its versatility as it works well in many different types of arrangements: contemporary, country, as well as romantic. While arranging, be aware that the blooms are very heavy on slender stems, and design so that the heads will remain upright. Lisianthus last long and are excellent for corsage work. They are sensitive to gravity. Their stems will bend upwards if the flowers are held horizontal at ambient temperatures. With its ruffled, delicate petals and subtle colors, Lisianthus is ideal for romantic occasions.
Ethylene Sensitivity
Slightly sensitive to ethylene, which leads to earlier deterioration of flowers that were mature at the time of exposure.
Pest & Disease Information
Botrytis can develop on leaves if stems are packed together too tightly. Always allow enough space for air to flow around the stems.
Troubleshooting
At times, flower buds do not develop and do not show good color. High sugar flower food helps eliminate those issues. Other causes for poor opening can be product age (stored too long) or storing dry for long periods. Color fade on blooms can be due to improper use of flower food or exposure to intense light sources. Studies show the benefits of storage in solutions containing higher sugar levels. Studies report that wet storage improves vase life and bud development. Lisianthus are phototropic, which means it will grow towards the source of light. If set in an arrangement at a 45-degree angle, the tip will grow upright toward the light source. Being stored horizontally can therefore cause upward bending of stems. Flowers should be shipped and stored upright in bucket solutions. Foliage yellowing can be an issue as well. High growing pH can lead to reduced flower color. Some varieties can be ethylene sensitive, leading to poor opening, premature wilting, and leaf yellowing. Treat with an ethylene action inhibitor or source from a supplier that has treated.
Product Usage
For optimal care of Lisianthus, please reference the chart of products below. Make sure to select your region to see which products are available.