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Biennial

Eustoma Grandiflorum

Eustoma grandiflorum

LisianthusPrairie GentianTexas BluebellBluebell Gentian

Lisianthus is an elegant flowering plant prized for its rose-like blooms and exceptional vase life. With ruffled petals and sophisticated beauty, it symbolizes appreciation, gratitude, and lifelong bonds.

Plant Family

Gentianaceae (Gentian family)

Blooming

Summer through fall (June-October), continuous flowering until frost

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Lisianthus flowers with elegant ruffled petals
Lisianthus flowers with elegant ruffled petals

Symbolism & Meanings

Key Meanings

Appreciation
Gratitude
Lifelong Bonds
Charisma
Outgoing Nature
Romantic Desire

Perfect For

Weddings and anniversariesThank you arrangementsRomantic gesturesFormal celebrationsSympathy flowersAppreciation gifts

Color Meanings

Purple:Admiration and first love
Pink:Femininity and romance
White:Purity and innocence
Lavender:Enchantment and grace
Blue:Calmness and serenity

Similar flowers: eustomas and roses also share similar meanings.

Cultural Significance

Lisianthus has gained prominence in modern floral design, particularly popular in Japanese flower arranging and Western wedding floristry. The name "lisianthus" comes from Greek words meaning "dissolving flower." Its rose-like appearance combined with exceptional vase life (10-14 days) has made it a favorite among florists. The flower represents appreciation and gratitude, making it ideal for expressing thanks and celebrating lasting relationships.
Related cultural flowers:Sunflower, Rose

Botanical Information

Physical Characteristics

Flower Size: 2-3 inches diameter (5-8 cm)
Plant Size: 18-30 inches tall (45-75 cm), dwarf varieties 6-8 inches (15-20 cm)
Flower Shape: Bell-shaped with flaring petals, single or double forms resembling roses

Natural Habitat

Native to: Great Plains of North America, Northern Mexico, Southern United States
Habitat: Cultivated in gardens and greenhouses; native to prairies and grasslands
Climate: Temperate, Warm temperate

Growing Guide

Sunlight

Full sun to partial shade; prefers morning sun and afternoon shade in hot climates

Water

Consistent moisture during growth; avoid waterlogging and drought stress

Soil

Well-drained, Fertile, Loamy, Sandy loam, Neutral to alkaline pH

Expert Growing Tips

1

Start seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before last frost; seeds are dust-fine

2

Requires excellent drainage; avoid heavy wet soils

3

Provide support with stakes or netting for tall stems

4

Pinch young plants to encourage branching

5

Maintain consistent moisture but never waterlogged conditions

6

Fertilize regularly during active growth

7

Optimal temperatures: 70-75°F day, 60-65°F night

8

Not frost-tolerant; grow as annual in most zones

Uses & Benefits

Ornamental Uses

  • Premium cut flower arrangements
  • Wedding bouquets and centerpieces
  • Container and patio plantings
  • Formal garden borders
  • Greenhouse cultivation
  • Exhibition flowers

Traditional Uses

  • Limited medicinal use in modern herbalism
  • Related to gentian family which has traditional medicinal applications
  • Primarily valued for ornamental rather than medicinal purposes

Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Eustoma Grandiflorum

Are lisianthus hard to grow?

Lisianthus can be challenging to grow from seed due to their tiny seeds and slow germination. Most gardeners find success by purchasing transplants or starting seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last frost.

Is lisianthus an annual or perennial?

Lisianthus is technically a biennial or short-lived perennial in zones 8-10, but it's most commonly grown as an annual. It blooms from summer through fall in its first year.

What does lisianthus symbolize?

Lisianthus symbolizes appreciation, gratitude, and lifelong bonds. It also represents charisma, outgoing nature, and romantic desire, making it popular for weddings and thank-you arrangements.

How long do lisianthus flowers last?

Lisianthus flowers have exceptional vase life, lasting 10-14 days in arrangements when properly cared for. This makes them highly valued as premium cut flowers.

Available Colors

Purple
Pink
White
Lavender
Blue
Cream
Bicolor

Quick Facts

Type:biennial
Family:Gentianaceae (Gentian family)
Native to:Great Plains of North America
Blooms:Summer through fall (June-October), continuous flowering until frost

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