The Essential Guide To The Ageratum
Botanical Name: Ageratum houstonianum
Common Name: Floss Flower
General Knowledge: The Ageratum, commonly known as Floss Flower, originates from Central America and Mexico, where its vibrant blooms contribute to the regions' biodiversity. In Australia, ageratum is often utilised in garden borders for its fluffy, long-lasting flowers and is also popular in floral arrangements due to its rich colour and texture. A fun fact about ageratum is that despite its delicate appearance, it contains coumarin, which is used as a mosquito repellent, making it not only beautiful but also a practical addition to gardens.
Colour Range: Predominantly shades of blue, but also available in white, pink, and purple.
Australian Seasonal Availability: Available during the warmer months from late spring to early autumn.
Australian Wedding and Event Season Availability: Perfect for spring and summer weddings or events due to their vibrant colour and seasonal presence.
Commercially Grown in Australia: Yes, ageratum is grown commercially in suitable Australian climates.
Imported into Australia: Some specialty varieties may be imported for unique floral requirements.
Buying Tips: Select bunches with bright, fresh blooms. Stems should be firm and the leaves vibrant green, without wilting or browning.
Design Tips and Advice: Their fluffy, textured blooms make ageratum an excellent addition to both formal and informal floral designs. They complement other cottage garden flowers beautifully.
Flower Maturity: Choose flowers that are just starting to open. These will have a longer display life and will continue to open in the vase.
Expected Vase Life: Approximately 5 to 7 days with proper care.
Typical Stem Length: Ranges from 15 to 30 centimetres.
Typical Bunch Size: Commonly sold in bunches of 10 or more stems.
Floral Preservatives: Use a commercial floral preservative to prolong vase life and reduce bacterial growth.
Ethylene Sensitivity: Ageratum is moderately sensitive to ethylene. Keep them away from ripening fruit and exhaust fumes to prevent premature wilting.
Temperature Requirements: Maintain at cool room temperature, avoiding direct sunlight and drafts for optimal longevity.
Avoiding Problems: Regularly change the vase water and remove any leaves that are submerged to prevent rot and bacterial growth.
Cooling and Cool Rooms: Pre-arrangement storage should be at a consistent 2 to 5 degrees Celsius to maintain freshness.
Hydration and Vase Solutions: Cut stems diagonally under water before placing them in a vase to ensure they can hydrate effectively.
Ethylene Sensitive Care: Employ ethylene blockers where flowers are stored to guard against ethylene-induced degradation.