Galax Foliage
Common Names: Galax, Coltsfoot, Beetleweed, Wandplant
Botanical names: Galax urceolata
Availability: Year Round
Vase life: 7 to 14 days. Galax will last for several weeks stored in a closed plastic bag and refrigerated .
Storage temperatures: 36 - 41 degrees Fahrenheit
Ethylene Sensitive: No
Description: Rounded, heart-shaped, leathery leaves 2 to 3 inches in diameter on short woody stems 3 to five inches long. The leaves are a rich, glossy green with a slightly serrated edge.
Color: Glossy green in spring and summer changing to reddish green, deep burgundy or bronze in fall and winter.
Botanical facts: Galax is native to the southeastern United States, primarily found in the Appalachian Mountains, ranging from Pennsylvania down to Alabama and Georgia.
Design notes: Galax leaves are often used as a base layer in floral designs due to their flat, rounded shape. The leaves can be used to add texture and interest along the edges of a floral design. Galax leave are easy to manipulate into rosettes adding a focal area and interest to a design.
Purchasing hints: Purchase undamaged stems with turgid glossy foliage.
Conditioning: Cut the stem ends with as sharp knife. Hydrate in water mixed with a commercial floral food for two hours before storage or usage.
Additional notes: Galax gets it name from its small, white, star-shaped flowers, (Greek “gala” (milk)), that are arranged in a spike-like inflorescence, typically appearing in late spring to early summer. The flower spike can reach up to 12 to 18 inches tall.