Lisianthus is a unique and versatile flower that comes in various shades of red, blue, purple, pink, orange, yellow, and even lime green. Unlike roses, it can naturally be lime green in color. This ornamental flower belongs to the Gentianaceae family, known for its elegant flowers, bitter taste, smooth leaves, and difficulty growing from seed.
In recent years, significant breeding efforts for this native wildflower have taken the floristry and cut flower farming world by storm, resulting in lisianthus being available in every color of the rainbow. It is a prolific flower, producing multiple blooms per stem and thriving in the heat of summer. As a cut flower, it can last up to three weeks in a vase.
If you have a cut flower garden or experience drought-like conditions in your garden, then lisianthus is a plant that you shouldn’t miss out on. It’s an enigmatic flower that has gained popularity due to its uniqueness and versatility.
Lisianthus, also known as Eustoma grandiflorum syn. Russelathium, is a beautiful and fragile plant that produces stunning rose-like blooms.
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One botanical name is Eustoma grandiflorum also known as Sympetalous russellianum.
“Geпυs” and “EÏ…stoma” are two terms that may be unfamiliar to some readers.
Type of Plant
Biennial or Hardy Annual
Flower hues can vary, with shades including blue, purple, white, pink, green, yellow, and mixed.
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The water requirements are minimal.
The measurement of an object’s vertical extent from top to bottom is referred to as its height, and it typically ranges from 24 to 30 inches.
Spacing between 4 to 9 inches.
Bravery zones
USDA Zones 8 through 10
The ground requires a specific type of composition to thrive. A mixture of sand and clay is known as sandy loam, which is ideal for growing plants and crops.
Harmful to Pets
Absolutely Not
Background and Growth
Lisianthus is a flowering shrub that thrives in zones 8-10, particularly in dry winters and sandy soils. Its native range spans from western Nebraska to Texas and northern Mexico, where it grows as a biennial and typically blooms in shades of purple. Though relatively unknown in the U.S. horticulture industry until the 1980s, Lisianthus has since become a popular plant with a variety of colors and petal arrangements, including bicolor “picotee” varieties. While most Lisianthus plants are grown as annuals, those in USDA zones 8-10 may be grown as biennials or perennials.
Looking for a cost-effective and low-maintenance alternative to rose plants? Look no further than the lisianthus flower. Often mistaken for roses, lisianthus flowers come in a variety of colors that attract a diverse range of pollinators to your garden. Compared to rose bushes, lisianthus plants are affordable, require less water, pruning, fertility, and pest management, and are drought-tolerant once established. Additionally, they are great for attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to your garden. While growing from seed can be difficult, seeds are very affordable, and the plants can also be propagated by cuttings. Enjoy multiple stems and an extended vase life with this gorgeous plant.
To ensure successful germination of lisianthus seeds, it is recommended to begin the process indoors around 10 to 14 weeks prior to the last frost. It’s important to provide the seeds with a warm and moist environment for optimal results. Keep in mind that lisianthus seeds are tiny, which is why some seed companies sell pelleted seeds. This process involves coating the seeds with inert materials to make them a more uniform size and shape or a larger size that’s easier to handle.
To prevent seedlings from becoming dormant, it’s important to keep them at a cool temperature. Begin by starting seeds indoors about 10 to 14 weeks before the last frost, typically in January for many climates. Due to their slow growth, provide ample time for germination. Sow seeds on the surface of moist germination mix and maintain a temperature of around 70° to 75°F until germination occurs. Use a heat mat or place the seeds in a warm area like the top of your refrigerator, and cover your seedling tray or pot with a humidity dome or plastic wrap to retain moisture. You may need a magnifying glass initially to see the tiny seedlings. After germination, it’s crucial to remove any bottom heat as lisianthus are prone to a phenomenon called rosetting, which causes dormancy if temperatures remain too high. Keep the seedlings between 50° and 65°F to prevent rosetting. To emulate nature, mimic the cool, moist early spring in which lisianthus typically germinates in the wild.
Plants that come in the form of plugs can be a great option since they are already prepared for planting, but they come with an expensive price tag. Due to the difficulty of starting them from seeds and the risk of root rot, many commercial growers opt to purchase plug seedlings instead. These seedlings can be transplanted once they arrive. Unfortunately, the minimum order quantity and shipping costs associated with plugs may make them unaffordable for home gardeners. If you’re located in the southern United States, you may have luck finding a local nursery that sells plant starts. One important tip to keep in mind is that it’s not advisable to directly sow lisianthus seeds into your garden – starting them indoors is the preferred method.
In regions with warm climates like zones 8 and above, you’ll notice these heat-loving plants self-seeding. You can let nature do its job in filling your flower beds, but be careful not to disturb their roots as they don’t like it. However, if you want to move a plant from one location to another, you can gently dig up seedlings and transfer them. You can also save lisianthus seeds once the flowers have wilted and spread them over the soil. Remember that they need sunlight to germinate, so press them lightly into the soil and avoid planting them in exposed areas where the wind can blow away the superficial seed. Even greenhouse growers can benefit from this method when growing lisianthus.
To increase the number of lisianthus plants you have or to share them with fellow gardeners, you can propagate them through stem cuttings in the spring. Simply take a stem cutting with at least 4 to 6 sets of leaves, remove the lowest set of leaves, dip the end in rooting hormone, and place it in a moist medium made of peat moss or coconut coir mixed with perlite. Cover the spot where the leaves were removed and firm the mix around the cutting. Keep the cutting moist but not waterlogged and use a humidity dome or plastic bottle top to maintain high humidity. After about 4 to 6 weeks, roots and new growth should appear. Once the cutting has rooted sufficiently, you can transplant it into the garden or a larger pot. Propagating plants through stem cuttings is a common method used by gardeners.
When transplanting lisianthus seedlings, make sure they have four sets of true leaves and provide support to prevent flopping. True leaves are the ones that emerge after the initial set of cotyledons. Cotyledons are the first set of seedling leaves that are shed when the true leaves start doing photosynthesis. It takes about 60 to 90 days from germination to transplantation, so patience is key. Lisianthus can withstand cool spring temperatures and can be transplanted a month before the expected last frost in an unheated greenhouse or cold frame. If planting outside, transplant two weeks before the expected last frost and harden them off to their new environment beforehand. Lisianthus grows upright but can flop over if not supported by staking or petting. To avoid this, plant them with tight spacing, as close as 4 inches apart. Dwarf varieties are also available that won’t flop and will only grow 6-10 inches tall. While lisianthus has a reputation for being difficult to grow, it’s easy to care for once you know how. Keep in mind that they take a long time to show signs of life, up to 3 weeks to germinate and up to 6 months to produce the first flower.
In order to promote optimal growth and blooming, the lisianthus plant requires a significant amount of direct sunlight – ideally at least 6 to 8 hours per day. If you live in a warmer region, it’s best to choose a planting site that receives full morning sun followed by partial shade in the afternoon when the sun is strongest. Conversely, in cooler regions like the Pacific Northwest, lisianthus can usually tolerate full sun or bright light conditions without as much shade in the afternoon. When starting lisianthus seeds indoors, it’s important to use a grow light to simulate the brightness of the sun since windows may not provide enough light. Keep in mind that lisianthus is native to open plains in the southern United States and northern Mexico, so creating a similar environment in your garden can help these beautiful flowers thrive.
The drought-tolerant plant called lisianthus prefers cool and moist conditions during its early stages but can adapt to dryer conditions once it is fully established. These plants require less water as they have low water requirements, making them perfect for rock gardens and xeriscape plantings. However, they do not tolerate being waterlogged. When watering lisianthus, make sure the water only touches the base and not the leaves. Overwatering can lead to plant diseases, so it’s best to water early in the morning and allow the soil to dry out before nighttime. In their natural habitat, lisianthus enjoys hot summers with occasional rainfall, so they may require less water in damp climates. As the summer months come to an end, gradually decrease watering needs.
To ensure that lisianthus grows healthily, it requires soil that is well-drained and preferably loam or sandy. It cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions, so it’s important to prevent water from accumulating around the roots. The plant thrives in well-draining loam or sandy loam soils, with a pH level of 6.5 to 7.0. Acidic soil is not suitable for lisianthus growth, as it can lead to zinc toxicity, which inhibits plant growth. Lisianthus is also salt-sensitive. If your planting site has more clay, you can enhance drainage by adding organic matter such as well-rotted manure or compost to the soil. Another great option is to grow lisianthus in a raised bed. Raised beds naturally have better drainage, and you can control the soil type by filling it yourself. Birdies Raised Metal Garden Beds are an ideal sustainable, rot-resistant, and DIY solution for incorporating raised beds into your garden.
This flower thrives in colder weather and can tolerate freezing temperatures during the winter season. On the other hand, these stunning plants prefer warmer temperatures and are considered winter-hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10. Although some gardeners suggest that they can withstand zone 7. Personally, I have successfully overwintered lisianthus in an unheated greenhouse in zone 6a. The bottom line is that lisianthus can tolerate some cold temperatures.
For optimal growth, the ideal soil temperature for lisianthus ranges from 59-73°F (15-23°C). Additionally, the lowest air temperature that a mature plant can survive outdoors is 10°F (-12°C).
If you reside in regions that are colder than zone 8, you will need to bring your plants indoors until temperatures warm up again. In colder climates, growing lisianthus in pots is highly recommended. However, in zone 7, you may be able to save your plants by covering them with a thick layer of mulch and row covers until the following spring. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to ensure that your plants receive plenty of light.
Even though we typically associate the lisianthus plant with thriving in hot weather, it actually prefers cooler temperatures in order to establish its root system in the soil. In its natural habitat, the lisianthus growth pattern is more like a biennial, where it forms a mound of leaves in the first year and then produces long shoots with flowers in the second year. However, most ornamental varieties are grown as annuals, which can take a long time to mature and bloom. While they can withstand freezing temperatures with some protection in cooler climates, temperature control is crucial to prevent rosetting when grown as an annual. According to experts like AllaÌ„n Armitage and Judy Lauschman, authors of the guide Specialty Cut Flowers, temperatures above 70°F should be avoided “like the plague,” especially at night. Although seeds can be started with heat mats, once they germinate, they should be grown in cool temperatures (45° to 65°F) during the seedling stage to prevent rosetting.
For optimal growth of your lisianthus plants, it is recommended to use slow-release fertilizers containing balanced levels of nitrogen and potassium. During transplanting, use slow-release fertilizers that contain just as much potassium (K) as nitrogen (N) to boost the plant. Additionally, using fertilizers with high levels of potassium throughout the growing season will increase the number of beautiful flowers on your lisianthus plants. Conversely, using fertilizers with high levels of nitrogen will promote foliage growth instead of flowers.
Potash, kelp meal, and alfalfa are some fertilizers that are high in potassium. Alfalfa meal or pellets are also a good source of nitrogen. Fish emulsion contains both nitrogen and potassium, but is typically higher in nitrogen. Another important nutrient for lisianthus development is calcium (Ca). Calcium deficiency may manifest as a tip burn on the leaves. While many calcium fertilizers are applied as a spray on the leaves, plants absorb calcium better through the soil. Fortunately, most soil already has ample calcium to support your plant’s needs.
To maintain your lisianthus plants, follow the above fertilizing tips and ensure they receive adequate sunlight, water, and drainage. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooms and prune any diseased or damaged foliage. With proper care, your lisianthus plants will thrive and add a touch of beauty to your garden.
To avoid stem flopping in your garden, it’s important to focus on deadheading and providing support. While some gardeners may opt to pinch their lisianthus plants when they reach six inches in height, research from Cornell University suggests that this could delay flowering and not increase the overall number of blooms. Instead, deadhead and harvest the flowers to keep your plants looking tidy and prevent seed set. If you allow the flowers to stay on the plant, remove spent flowers to encourage new growth. To provide support for your lisianthus, consider using flower netting or stakes to prevent tall stems from flopping over in strong winds.
The Lisianthus plant has been categorized into four distinct groups according to its bloom time. This classification is based on the plant’s response to heat and light. Group 1 is known to bloom during moderate light and heat, while Group 2 blooms in the summer when there is high light and heat. Group 3 blooms later in the summer when the light and heat are moderate. Group 4 is a less common variety, usually grown mostly for winter production in warm climates.
One popular series that belongs to Group 1 is the ‘Echo’ series, which blooms in late June when sown in late January. Another variety is the ‘Doubliini’ series, which features miniature blooms that closely resemble spray roses and comes in a range of colors. ‘Roseanne Black Pearl’ is a stunning shade of faded purple with an eggplant color that’s breathtakingly beautiful in person.
Group 2 and 3 varieties generally bloom about a month later than Group 1. Some of the most popular varieties in these groups include the ‘Arena,’ ‘Voyage,’ ‘Mariachi,’ and ‘ABC’ series. The ‘Voyage’ varieties have lots of ruffling and waving to their blooms, while ‘ABC’ has more layers of petals than many other varieties. ‘Arena’ is a very dependable variety and comes in a wide range of colors.
If you’re looking to grow Lisianthus as cut flowers, some of my favorite varieties include…
The flower is truly one-of-a-kind due to its distinct combination of white and dark blue colors.
The colors of the bloom are a combination of white and a deep shade of blue on the edges.
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The Arepa series offers a variety of colors and cultivars ranging from Group 2 to Group 4, with heights between 21-30 inches. Personally, I prefer planting the Group 3 Arepas because they have fully-double flowers that grow on strong, tall stems. One of the standout cultivars is the Blue Picotee, which has white petals with a dark blue edge, making it truly unique.
The gentle hue of pink that this particular blossom displays can imbue any garden with a subtle and delicate touch.
Shades of soft pink are associated with blooming flowers. They symbolize delicate beauty and tenderness.
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The height of the Corelliâ„¢ series ranges from 28-38 inches, and it is famous for its stunning large flowers that have fringed or wavy petal edges. This series has a few growing groups, but my personal favorite is ‘Corelli III Light Pink’, which grows in a beautiful and soothing shade of pink.
If you have limited space or prefer to grow plants in containers, consider opting for dwarf varieties like the Sapphire. They can be a great option.
The shades of blooming hues vary from one flower to another, and some of the most captivating ones are the dark blue-purple blossoms.
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If you’re searching for a small-sized plant to enhance your landscape or pots, you can opt for the Sapphire series. These plants grow up to a height of merely 6-10 inches and are available in different colors. They are perfect for borders, edges, and even for planting in containers. Additionally, you can also cultivate them as houseplants near windows that receive ample sunshine.
Lisianthus plants do not attract many pests or diseases. Most problems arise due to unintentional overwatering or letting the leaves get wet.
To prevent damage to seedlings, you can use sticky traps to catch adult fungus gnat and ensure proper airflow. Fungus gnat larvae can harm the roots of your seedlings, and you may notice them flying around your trays or pots. Hang sticky cards to trap the adults and prevent them from laying eggs that could lead to an infestation. Good air circulation is important, but don’t let your seedlings dry out; water as needed. You can also use an organic larvicide called Mosquito Bits made from a naturally occurring soil bacteria to kill any fungus gnat larvae in your seed starting area. This treatment is highly effective against larvae but may not kill off adults.
These tiny insects can cause significant harm if left unattended. Thrips are cigar-shaped pests that measure 1/16th of an inch long and can be either brown or white in color. They tend to feed on blooms, particularly those with lighter colors, leaving unsightly streaks on dark petals. Additionally, they can transmit viruses as they feed on the plant.
Thrips can rapidly become a significant problem. When growing plants outside, they may not be affected by thrips as much. However, periodically soaking the plant with a hose can help. When growing in a structure like a greenhouse, it may be advantageous to release beneficial predator insects that feed on the thrips.
Lacewings and ladybugs are two such beneficial insects that can be ordered from various companies through a subscription service. You can periodically release them to manage infestations. Nonetheless, make sure that the greenhouse conditions are conducive to the continued health of your beneficial insects!
One way to manage aphids in your garden is by introducing predatory insects like ladybugs to feed on the aphid population. Although this plant is not very appealing to many other pests, other insects may still target it for its sap. Aphids, whiteflies, and thrips can cause damage to the plant’s blooms and foliage, detracting from its beauty. These bugs may be more attracted to plants that are overfertilized with nitrogen. Biological control and companion planting are effective methods for controlling these insects. While heavy sprays of water can knock off some aphids, repeated applications of neem oil or insecticidal soap are typically necessary for heavier infestations.
To avoid damping off, it is important to manage moisture carefully when taking care of seedlings. Mature lisianthus plants are usually free from diseases, but they can be vulnerable to some fungal diseases on their flowers and leaves. A lot of gardeners find it challenging to grow lisianthus from seeds as too much moisture can lead to damping off or root attacks by pathogens while insufficient moisture can cause the roots to wither away. As a result, many farmers and gardeners choose to order plugs instead of starting from seed. Fungal diseases like Fusarium can attack lisianthus and cause root rot, but using fungicide root dips or drenches can help prevent this problem after transplanting. If any plants start turning brown or dying, they should be removed immediately to prevent infections from spreading to neighboring plants. Cut flower farmers often grow lisianthus in unheated greenhouses to prevent bloom damage and infections. When growing lisianthus in landscapes or gardens, it is advisable to choose colored varieties as white-flowered ones seem to be more affected by rainfall and moisture. Single-petaled varieties are also less likely to hold water in the flower than doubles. To prevent diseases, it is crucial to plant healthy plants, discard diseased plants promptly, and give sufficient space between plants to allow good air circulation throughout the garden.
Lisianthus is a popular cut flower that can last up to 2-3 weeks in a vase. They are commonly grown for this purpose and have a long vase life. To harvest them for arrangements, cut just above a set of leaves when at least one flower is fully colored. It’s not necessary for the flower to be fully open, but they look better when harvested with one fully open.
It’s also possible to grow Lisianthus in landscaping or in patio pots. Since this plant is drought-tolerant, it’s great for xeriscapes or rock gardens in some climates. Xeriscapes are plantings of drought-tolerant plants or plants that naturally occur in desert areas.
While these flowers can be finicky to start from seed, once established, they are low maintenance and beautiful, making the challenge worthwhile. Lisianthus is naturally a biennial or short-lived perennial. In USDA zones 8 and 9, it grows as a biennial and lasts for two years. In zone 10, it grows as a perennial and comes back each year. In colder areas, it can be grown as an annual.
If you want to overwinter them in northern climates, you will need protection like a cold frame, heavy frost cloth, or a greenhouse. The jury is still out on whether flowers produced during the second year are worth the effort of winter protection rather than starting new seeds in late January for the next season’s blooms.
The Lisianthus varieties we see today were primarily developed for cutting. Because Lisianthus is so long and lanky, it can be a difficult landscape plant. The ‘Arena 3’ series and the ‘Corelli 3’ series are both dependable and have either layered or wavy petals. Avoid dwarf varieties like ‘Sapphire,’ as they only grow about 6 to 8 inches tall and won’t be suitable for cutting.
Lisianthus are native to the open prairies and prefer full sun (6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day). In some cases, you may plant them in partial shade if the shade is mostly in the afternoon. Too much shade will reduce the number of blooms per plant over the season.
If you live in USDA zones 8 to 10, you can overwinter Lisianthus. Most growers plant their Lisianthus in the fall in those warmer regions. You can also try mulching the Lisianthus with about 10 to 12 inches of straw. Success will vary and may not be worth it.
The prettiest flowers can often be the most finicky to grow. Lisianthus is one of those flowers. Yet, if you’re brave enough to nurture the seedlings for 60 to 90 days, you’re ready to grow this beautiful rose-like flower. The benefits far outweigh the challenges that come with growing this plant! A wide range of colors, long-lasting vase life, drought tolerance, and a steady supply of blooms will make all the rigors of the seedling stage worth it.