Wax Flower - Chamelaucium
Common Names: Wax Flower. Chamelaucium
Botanical names: Chamelaucium uncinatum, (cham-ee-LAW-si-um un-si-NAY-tum)
Availability: Year round
Vase life: 7 to 14 days
Storage temperatures: 32 - 34 degrees Fahrenheit
Ethylene Sensitive: Yes
Description: Star-shaped blossoms of five petals 1/2 inch across along woody branching stems with needle-like leaves.
Color: White, pink, lavender and bi-color
Botanical facts: Native to Australia. Related to eucalyptus. Foliage releases a delightful lemon-citrus fragrance when crushed. The flowers are not fragrant.
Design notes: Wonderful filler flower. Flexible branches give motion to larger vase arrangements.
Purchasing hints: Purchase when one quarter of the blossoms are open. Branches should be very pliable. Avoid branches showing needle or blossom drop.
Conditioning: Break 2 inches off of the woody stem. Hydrate in a solution of water and commercial floral food for two hours before storage or usage.
Additional notes: Often grown in Australia and shipped to the United States. Sensitive to Botrytis which can cause premature blossom fall.
Video Demonstration: