Safflower - Carthamus

Common Names: Safflower - Carthamus

Botanical names: Carthamus, (CAR-tha-mus)

Availability: Spring through Summer

Vase life: 7 to 10 days

Storage temperatures: 36 - 40 degrees Fahrenheit

Ethylene Sensitive: No

Description: Orange and yellow thin petals emerging from a one inch thistle-like green globe.

Color: Orange, yellow

Botanical facts: Safflower is a member of the Sunflower family. Safflower is also grown for cooking oil. Related species include chrysanthemum, zinnia, artichoke. Safflower has long been used medicinally, and as a substitute for saffron dye.

Design notes: Generally used as a filler flower, Safflower blossoms can be used as an accent. Safflowers add texture to floral designs.

Purchasing hints: Purchase when half of the buds are open and half still closed.

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

Additional notes: Blossoms will last longer if most of the foliage is removed. Flowers are not fragrant.