Bupleurum

Common Names: Bupleurum, Thoroughwax

Botanical names: Bupleurum, (boo-PLUR-rum)

Availability: Year round

Vase life: 7 to 10 days

Storage temperatures: 36 - 38 degrees Fahrenheit

Ethylene Sensitive: Yes

Description: Multi-branched green filler flower and foliage with tiny yellow flowers at the ends.

Color: Yellow-green

Botanical facts: The name is from the Greek word boupleuros, meaning oxen rib. Bupleurum is a large genus of annual or perennial herbs or woody shrubs, with about 190 species, belonging to the family Apiaceae.

Design notes: Remove the small side laterals and use as a filler for small vase arrangements and bridal bouquets.

Purchasing hints: Purchase when half of the blossoms are open, the leaves are bright green and the stems turgid. Avoid wilting foliage.

Conditioning: Remove all foliage that will be below the waterline. Cut two inches off of the stem with a sharp knife. Hydrate in a solution of water and commercial floral food for two hours before storage or usage.

Additional notes: Blupleurum root is used as a herbal remedy with applications in Chinese medicine. It has been used for centuries to treat liver problems and other ailments.