Limonium
Limonium is a popular, hardy filler flower that is used in both fresh and dried bouquets. The flowers are in loose panicles and branching spikes. Stems are winged and branched, and 24-36 inches long (61-91 cm). Limonium has tiny flowers with colored papery bracts and one-sided ranked clusters at stem ends. The most popular colors are blue, purple and lavender but also come in white, pink and yellow. Flowers have a particular smell that can be unpleasant.
Family: Plumbaginaceae
Species: Limonium spp.
Origin: Depending on the variety, native to Europe, Eastern Asia, the Mediterranean region, the Canary Islands and the Caucasus Mountains.
Symbolizes: Limonium symbolizes success, beauty, sympathy, and remembrance. It can also mean "I miss you" when given to someone you care for deeply.
Also Known As: Statice, Annual Statice, Sea Lavender, Caspia, Limo, Marsh Rosemary, The Everlasting Flower.
Care, Handling & Design
Temperature: 34-38 F (1-3C)
Humidity: 75-85%
Water: Medium water quality. Avoid softened water.
Vase Life: Varies by cultivar: 4-16 days.
What to Look for When Purchasing
Harvest when 50-70% of the flowers are showing color (open). When purchasing Limonium, the following are the red flags: leaf and stem yellowing, botrytis infection, mechanical damage, signs of dehydration, unpleasant smell, senescence, tight/open cut, broken or weak stems, shattering, underweight, and condensation.
Foam Info
Performs well.
Design Tips
Used as a filler flower, Limonium adds a delicate texture to design. The light and delicate appearance of this flower makes it an excellent filler in bouquets and design work. Limonium is suitable for drying. It can be dried by cutting the stems and hanging them upside down in a cool, airy place. It has a natural musky odor which some people compare to cat urine and should therefore not be used in arrangements planned for confined areas with limited air circulation.
Ethylene Sensitivity
Low sensitivity to Ethylene although it varies depending on the variety. The use of ethylene action inhibitors have been shown to extend vase life.
Pest & Disease Information
Botrytis on flowers and stems.
Troubleshooting
Leaf and stem yellowing. Limonium is prone to having botrytis. Avoid extremely high relative humidity and treat with an anti-botrytis product such as transport sheets during shipping. Upon receipt, the plastic sleeve should be pulled down to avoid condensation from building up that can cause flower and stem disease. Allow room in storage buckets for air to circulate. Change water solution frequently.
Product Usage
For optimal care of Limonium, please reference the chart of products below. Make sure to select your region to see which products are available.