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Annual

Statice

Limonium sinuatum

Sea LavenderMarsh RosemaryWavyleaf Sea LavenderNotch Leaf

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.

Plant Family

Plumbaginaceae (Leadwort family)

Blooming

Summer to early fall (June-October)

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Statice flowers displaying colorful papery bracts in dense clusters
Statice flowers displaying colorful papery bracts in dense clusters

Symbolism & Meanings

Key Meanings

Remembrance
Success
Sympathy
Lasting beauty
Faithfulness
Never-ending love

Perfect For

Memorial servicesSympathy arrangementsGraduation celebrationsAchievementsDried flower crafts

Color Meanings

Purple:Success, achievement, and remembrance
Pink:Gratitude and appreciation
White:Sympathy and remembrance
Blue:Faithfulness and loyalty
Yellow:Joy and success

Similar flowers: scabiosas and petunias also share similar meanings.

Cultural Significance

Statice's ability to retain its color and form when dried has made it a symbol of lasting memories and enduring love. It's often used in memorial arrangements and sympathy bouquets to represent remembrance. The flower's resilience in harsh coastal conditions also symbolizes strength and persistence.

Botanical Information

Physical Characteristics

Flower Size: Small individual flowers in dense clusters 2-4 inches across (5-10 cm)
Plant Size: 12-24 inches tall (30-60 cm) and 8-12 inches wide (20-30 cm)
Flower Shape: Dense clusters of small tubular flowers surrounded by papery colorful bracts

Natural Habitat

Native to: Mediterranean region, North Africa, Middle East
Habitat: Coastal areas, salt marshes, cultivated in gardens worldwide
Climate: Mediterranean, Temperate, Arid

Growing Guide

Sunlight

Full sun (6-8 hours daily)

Water

Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established

Soil

Well-drained, Sandy, Poor soils tolerated, Salt-tolerant, Alkaline to neutral (pH 7.0-8.0)

Expert Growing Tips

1

Start seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before last frost

2

Transplant seedlings after soil warms in spring

3

Excellent salt tolerance makes it ideal for coastal gardens

4

Harvest flowers when fully colored but before they fade

5

Hang upside down in dark, dry place for drying

Uses & Benefits

Ornamental Uses

  • Cut flower arrangements (fresh and dried)
  • Dried flower crafts and potpourri
  • Coastal and seaside gardens
  • Border plantings and mass displays
  • Everlasting flower arrangements

Traditional Uses

  • Traditional use as astringent in folk medicine
  • Some species used historically for tanning leather

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

Frequently Asked Questions about the Statice

what does statice flower symbolize

Statice flowers symbolize remembrance, success, and lasting beauty — their ability to retain color when dried makes them perfect for memorial arrangements.

how do you dry statice flowers

Harvest statice when flowers are fully colored, remove leaves, and hang bundles upside down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated area for 2-3 weeks.

when should you plant statice seeds

Start statice seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last frost date, then transplant outdoors after soil warms in late spring.

is statice good for coastal gardens

Yes, statice is excellent for coastal gardens due to its exceptional salt tolerance and ability to thrive in sandy, well-drained soils.

Available Colors

Purple
Pink
White
Yellow
Blue
Lavender
Rose
Salmon

Quick Facts

Type:annual
Family:Plumbaginaceae (Leadwort family)
Native to:Mediterranean region
Blooms:Summer to early fall (June-October)

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