Limonium sinuatum
Limonium sinuatum (L.) Mill.
Statice is a Mediterranean coastal plant beloved for its papery, everlasting flowers in vibrant colors. Perfect for both fresh and dried arrangements, it symbolizes remembrance and lasting beauty.
Plumbaginaceae (Leadwort family)
Summer to early fall (June-September)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: statices and blue sea lavenders also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Statice derives its name from the Greek "limonion," meaning meadow. The papery flowers that retain their color when dried have made statice a symbol of remembrance and lasting memories across cultures. In the Victorian language of flowers, statice represented success and sympathy. Its ability to thrive in harsh coastal conditions symbolizes resilience and dauntlessness. The everlasting quality of the dried flowers makes them perfect for memorial wreaths and remembrance bouquets. Statice has been cultivated for centuries around the Mediterranean and remains one of the most popular dried flowers worldwide, representing the enduring nature of cherished memories.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun (6+ hours direct sunlight)
Water
Low to moderate, excellent drought tolerance once established
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Sandy loam, Poor to average fertility, Tolerates alkaline soils (pH 6.5-8.0)
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in spring after last frost
Requires excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil
Thrives in light, sandy, well-drained soils
Do not over-fertilize; prefers lean soil
Often grown as annual in zones above 8, biennial or short-lived perennial in zones 8-9
Drought tolerant once established
May struggle in high heat and humidity
No deadheading needed; produces one long bloom period
Cut flowers when fully open for fresh use, younger for dried arrangements
Provide good air circulation to prevent crown rot
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Cut flower gardens (fresh and dried)
- Coastal and seaside gardens
- Rock gardens and gravel plantings
- Container plantings
- Border edging
- Xeriscaping and water-wise gardens
- Everlasting flower arrangements
Traditional Uses
- Traditionally used in some Mediterranean cultures for astringent properties
- Not commonly used medicinally compared to other Limonium species
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Limonium sinuatum
How do you dry statice flowers?
Cut statice when flowers are fully open and hang them upside down in a warm, dry, dark place. They dry quickly within 1-2 weeks and retain their vibrant colors excellently, making them perfect for everlasting arrangements.
Is Limonium sinuatum a perennial or annual?
Statice is technically a short-lived perennial or biennial, but it is commonly grown as an annual in most climates. In zones 8-9, it may behave as a biennial or tender perennial.
Is statice the same as lavender?
No, despite common names like sea lavender, statice (Limonium sinuatum) is not related to true lavender (Lavandula). It belongs to the leadwort family (Plumbaginaceae), while lavender is in the mint family.
Is statice salt tolerant?
Yes, statice is moderately salt tolerant and thrives in coastal gardens. Its natural habitat includes Mediterranean coastal areas and salt marshes, making it well-adapted to seaside conditions.
Why is statice called everlasting?
Statice is called everlasting because its papery flowers retain their color and form when dried, lasting for years in arrangements. This quality has made it one of the most popular dried flowers for centuries.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Statice
Limonium sinuatum
Statice is a hardy annual flower prized for its papery, colorful bracts that retain their color when dried. It symbolizes remembrance, success, and sympathy, making it popular for both fresh and dried arrangements.
Blue Sea Lavender
Limonium perezii
Blue Sea Lavender is a showy evergreen perennial with large clusters of papery purple-blue flowers held on tall stems above leathery foliage. This Canary Island native is prized for fresh and dried arrangements.
Sea Lavender
Limonium spp.
Sea Lavender is a versatile perennial known for its airy sprays of papery flowers. Despite its name, it's not related to true lavender. Valued for fresh and dried arrangements, it brings delicate texture to gardens.