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.
Plumbaginaceae (Leadwort family)
Summer to early fall (June-September)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Cultural Significance
Sea Lavender's papery flowers retain their color when dried, making them symbols of everlasting beauty and enduring memories. In the language of flowers, they represent remembrance and success. Their ability to thrive in harsh coastal environments symbolizes endurance and resilience. The flowers are often used in sympathy arrangements and memorial bouquets.Shop Our Floral Collection
Transform your space with our curated selection of designer floral throw pillows
Visit Full StoreBotanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun (at least 6 hours)
Water
Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established; avoid waterlogged soil
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Loam, Tolerates poor soil, Alkaline to neutral preferred
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in spring in well-drained soil; essential to prevent root rot
Space plants 12 inches apart for good air circulation
Drought-tolerant once established; avoid overwatering
Harvest flowers for drying when fully open but before fading
Hang upside down in a dark, dry place to preserve color
Divide mature plants in spring if needed, though roots are long and division is difficult
Tolerates salt spray and coastal conditions
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Cut flowers (excellent fresh and dried)
- Everlasting/dried flower arrangements
- Coastal and seaside gardens
- Rock gardens and gravel plantings
- Cottage garden borders
- Pollinator gardens (attracts bees and butterflies)
Traditional Uses
- Not commonly used in modern herbal medicine
- Some traditional uses for astringent properties in various cultures
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Sea Lavender
is sea lavender the same as lavender?
No, Sea Lavender (Limonium) is not related to true lavender (Lavandula). Despite the similar name, they belong to different plant families and have different characteristics.
how to dry sea lavender flowers?
Harvest Sea Lavender when flowers are fully open, bundle stems together, and hang upside down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated area for 1-2 weeks until completely dry.
is sea lavender a perennial?
Most Sea Lavender species are perennials, though some like Limonium sinuatum are short-lived perennials often grown as annuals in cooler climates.
what does sea lavender symbolize?
Sea Lavender symbolizes remembrance, everlasting beauty, success, and endurance. Its papery flowers that retain color when dried represent lasting memories and affection.
does sea lavender attract pollinators?
Yes, Sea Lavender is excellent for pollinators, attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects with its nectar-rich flowers throughout summer.
is sea lavender salt tolerant?
Yes, many Sea Lavender species are highly salt-tolerant and thrive in coastal conditions, making them ideal for seaside gardens and areas with salt spray.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
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.
Armeria
Armeria maritima
Armeria is a hardy coastal perennial forming neat cushions of grass-like foliage topped with globe-shaped flower heads. It symbolizes endurance, sympathy, and remembrance, thriving in harsh seaside conditions.
Tradescantia
Tradescantia species
Tradescantia are hardy perennials with three-petaled flowers that bloom for just one day. They symbolize transient beauty, resilience, and the preciousness of fleeting moments.