Rice Flower

Common Names: Rice Flower, White Dogwood.

Botanical names: Ozothamnus diosmifolius

Availability: Late winter to spring.

Vase life: 7 to 14 days.

Storage temperatures: 34 to 36 degrees Fahrenheit

Ethylene Sensitive: Yes.

Description: Tiny dense clusters of flowers at the tips of the branches. Each tiny flower is star-shaped with five petals. Each flower head consists of numerous tiny individual flowers arranged in a tight, spherical shape, resembling a puff of cotton. The flowers are beautiful both as closed buds and open flowers.

Color: Pink, White.

Botanical facts: Rice Flower is a native Australian shrub belonging to the Asteraceae family.

Design notes: The fluffy texture of the rice flower contrasts beautifully with smoother foliage or other flowers in the arrangement. Rice flowers can be used as filler flowers.

Purchasing hints: Select unblemished stems with full heads of buds showing color, and with a few open blossoms.

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

Additional notes: Rice Flowers are often prized for their sweet, honey-like fragrance, which adds to their allure and makes them a favorite choice for floral arrangements and bouquets.