The Essential Guide To The Boronia
Botanical Name: Boronia spp.
Common Name: Boronia
General Knowledge: The boronia, renowned for its aromatic and colourful flowers, is predominantly native to Australia, with a high concentration of species found in the southwest of Western Australia. These fragrant blooms are commonly used in the country for their essential oils in perfumery and are also appreciated in native gardens for their beauty and scent. A fun fact about boronias is that despite their delicate appearance, some species are adapted to survive in Australia's harsh and nutrient-poor soils, showcasing the remarkable resilience of native flora.
Colour Range: White, lemon, yellow, pale to hot pink, blackish purple; specifically for B. megastigma, brown/yellow and yellow
Australian Seasonal Availability: Late winter to spring, though this can vary depending on the specific species or cultivar of Boronia.
Australian Wedding and Event Season Availability: Primarily available during the late winter to spring seasons, making Boronia a great choice for weddings and events held in these months.
Commercially Grown in Australia: Yes, Boronia is a native Australian flower and is commercially grown in the country.
Buying Tips: Look for bunches where the majority of the florets are open, and avoid any that show signs of wilting, dried petals or leaves, or dropping leaves and petals. Boronia is highly sensitive to drying out.
Design Tips and Advice: Boronia is a versatile flower suitable for a variety of arrangements, including wildflower posies, vases, and mixed bunches. Its transitional nature and sweet fragrance make it a delightful choice for many different settings.
Flower Maturity: Ensure that the flowers are at the correct stage of maturity, with the majority of florets open, for the best customer satisfaction.
Expected Vase Life: 5–6 days. The short vase life means these flowers should be used or sold quickly.
Typical Stem Length: Usually ranging from 40–80 cm.
Typical Bunch Size: This can vary depending on stem length and volume of blooms but is typically around 10 stems per bunch.
Australian Native Protections: As a native Australian species, Boronia is subject to protections and regulations regarding its cultivation and trade to ensure the preservation of its natural habitats.
Ethylene Sensitivity: Boronia’s sensitivity to ethylene varies by species and cultivar, and it is not determined for all. Be mindful of this when storing and displaying these flowers.
Temperature Requirements: Keep Boronia in cool storage at 2–4 °C.
Avoiding Potential Problems: Handle the flowers minimally to prevent dropping of the florets and mist them frequently to prevent drying out. If necessary for rehydration, immerse the entire stem in water for up to 2 hours.
Cooling and Cool Rooms: Utilise cool storage between 2–4 °C but be aware that Boronia has a short vase life and holding in cool storage for extended periods is not recommended.
Hydration and Vase Solutions: Ensure proper hydration and use floral preservatives in the vase water.
Care of Ethylene Sensitive Products: Be mindful of Boronia’s sensitivity to ethylene and store and handle accordingly to prevent premature wilting or dropping of florets.