Firmly Rooted An introduction to Lisianthus

by Victoria “Tori” Carver – Flower Farmer

Iwish I could take a poll of Laurel readers to find out how many of you have heard of Lisianthus (pronounced lis-see-an-thuhs).

I’m sure if you are a florist or have a florist’s background you’ve heard of this popular rose-like flower. If you have never heard of a Lisianthus (or Lisi for short), let this serve as an introduction to a flower that many claim is far superior to a rose. As a consumer, I don’t have enough good things to say about lisianthus. As a grower however, the waters are a little muddier. Let’s start with the negatives so we can finish on a positive note. I think lisianthus are absolutely beautiful, but I don’t particularly love them as a crop because they are very needy and take a lot of extra work. More work than dahlias if truth be known. I liken them to a Kardashian. Very beautiful, but very, very high maintenance.

Lisianthus are native to the United States and originated as a prairie wildflower. They like it dry and hot for the best quality of blooms. In fact, too much rain during the early growing stages will cause them to rot and rain damages the petals once blooming has begun. They are also very slow growers which adds to their flower drama. They take roughly six months from seed to bloom and I’d almost swear they don’t grow more than a few inches tall the first three or four months. Since they are such slow growers they are easily taken over by weeds. Repeatedly. If you plan to grow them, I recommend instituting a very regimented weed management program. I have failed miserably in this area which is most likely why I don’t love growing lisianthus. The hours spent weeding this single crop have made me question my decision to grow her again.

Victoria (Tori) Carver is a flower farmer. From the thousand bulbs and plants that she puts in the ground each year she creates lovely bouquets. Many enjoy her flowers in their home each week. She has established a subscription program for her customers or a honor-system bouquet sales for random purchases. Tori and her husband and children make their home in Clayton, where they are a treasured part of the community. If you are interested in Firmly Rooted Flower Farm please reach out by email to firmlyrootedflowerfarm@gmail.com or phone 706-490-0041. You will also enjoy their website at www.firmlyrootedflowerfarm.com

Now that I’ve gotten all the negative stuff out of the way, let’s talk about her flower gorgeousness. And make no mistake, she IS gorgeous. Lisi comes in a dazzling array of color choices from bold purples, reds, pinks and yellows to every pastel shade you can think of including peach and lavender. This unique flower even comes in green (yes, green flowers) and brown (which is actually a coppery, plum color). The shape and quantity of petals is also another lisianthus bonus. You can choose from ruffles, single petals, double petals, or even picotee. The choices are endless, really.

Lisianthus also have long, tall stems and easily last seven to ten days in the vase. Many report two weeks or better. She is stunning in bouquets and the best news of all for this rose-like stem? No thorns. None. Not even one which is all the more reason she has been a florist’s favorite for wedding work for decades now.

Flower farmers have long debated the merits and shortcomings of growing lisianthus so I’m not alone in my quandary. But, the saga continues. Do the growing difficulties outweigh her positive attributes? Should I grow her again or not? Only time will tell…

Victoria (Tori) Carver is a flower farmer. From the thousand bulbs and plants that she puts in the ground each year she creates lovely bouquets. Many enjoy her flowers in their home each week. She has established a subscription program for her customers or a honor-system bouquet sales for random purchases. Tori and her husband and children make their home in Clayton, where they are a treasured part of the community. If you are interested in Firmly Rooted Flower Farm please reach out by email to firmlyrootedflowerfarm@gmail.com or phone 706-490-0041. You will also enjoy their website at www.firmlyrootedflowerfarm.com