Bouvardia

Common Names: Bouvardia

Botanical names: Bouvardia, (boo-VAR-dee-ah)

Availability: Year round

Vase life: 1-2 weeks

Storage temperatures: 45 - 50 degrees Fahrenheit

Ethylene Sensitive: Yes

Description: Small, tubular flowers with spreading star-like petals.

Color: White, pink, orange, and reds

Botanical facts: The species is named after Charles Bouvard (1572-1658), physician to Louis XIII and superintendent of the Royal Gardens in Paris. Bouvardia is native to Mexico.

Design notes: Will last longer in vase arrangements and makes a wonderful filler flower. Most Bouvardia is fragrant and it is often used in wedding and corsage work.

Purchasing hints: Purchase when just one or two flowers are opening on each stem.

Conditioning: Remove all foliage that will be below the water line. Cut under water with a sharp knife. Hydrate in a solution of warm water and commercial floral preservative / floral food for two hours before storage or usage.

Additional notes: Bouvardia is chill sensitive, so avoid cool temperatures. It is also susceptible to wilting and leaf yellowing. These problems can generally be avoided by proper conditioning, good sanitation and the use of a floral preservative / floral food.