Lisianthus Care and Handling

There’s a bit of mystery surrounding the origins of the lovely Lisianthus. Where did it come from? To which genus does it truly belong? We’ll leave floral forensics to the experts; what’s NOT up for debate is the delicate, long-lasting beauty Lisianthus brings to floral arrangements everywhere. That’s the topic of the latest Floralife® article for LivRio entitled “Lisianthus: A Piece of the Prairie Indoors!”  

lisianthus

“Known by most as Lisianthus, this delicate prairie flower is also known as the Prairie Gentian, Texas bluebell, Poor man’s rose and Lira de San Pedro, or by its new Latin name of Eustoma. Native to North America, Lisianthus stems have glaucus, succulent-like leaves, and delicate purple, pink, green, or white vase shaped blooms atop slender single or branching stems.”

Lisianthus: A Tough Little Beauty!

Though frilly on the outside, Lisianthus grows in the Prairie, where conditions can be harsh. It thrives on the elements it has on hand, which can be sparse at times. But that doesn’t mean that it can get by without skilled Care and Handling! So Floralife® has assembled some useful Lisianthus Dos and Don’ts for floral pros and enthusiasts. Here are the highlights:

PURCHASING: Pay attention to stage of opening and avoid yellowed leaves.

HYDRATION AFTER HARVEST: Advice on using clean tools and buckets (hello, Floralife® D.C.D.® cleaner!), stem cutting, proper holding and storage temperatures, and using flower foods such as Floralife® Express 300.

SHIPPING AND STORAGE: Wet shipping and storage is best, as well as maintain proper temperatures.  

RE-HYDRATION AT STORE LEVEL AND STORAGE: Once again, clean tools and buckets.  Floralife® Quick Dip for stems shipped dry. Nourish with a quality flower food. Proper storage temps and hydration time. And a special note about using water treated with water softener!

VASE CARE: Stem cutting and leaf removal tips, as well as using Floralife Crystal Clear® for a more visually-appealing vase experience.  

COMMON DEFECTS: Among other issues, stem bending can be a problem, so always ship Lisianthus upright!  

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: Ethylene sensitivity, Color fade, poor opening, and wet storage are discussed.

Again, these are just the bullet points. Much more detail at the original piece. And of course, you can learn more about best practices from the experts in flower care at www.floralife.com!

lisianthus