The Essential Guide To The Stephanotis
Botanical Name: Stephanotis floribunda
Common Name: Stephanotis, Madagascar jasmine, Bridal Veil
General Knowledge: The Stephanotis, also known as Madagascar jasmine, hails from Madagascar and is treasured for its highly fragrant, waxy, star-shaped flowers. In Australia, stephanotis is commonly used in bridal bouquets and wedding decorations for its delicate beauty and sweet scent, symbolising marital happiness. A fun fact about Stephanotis is that in the language of flowers, it is associated with good luck and, as such, is a favoured choice in floral arrangements for new beginnings and celebrations.
Colour Range: The flowers are typically white, although there are some cultivars with a slight pink or yellow hue.
Australian Seasonal Availability: Summer
Australian Wedding and Event Season Availability: Summer, with its pristine white blossoms, Stephanotis is a popular choice for summer weddings and events, adding a touch of elegance and fragrance.
Commercially Grown in Australia: Not commonly, mostly imported.
Imported into Australia: Yes, Stephanotis is often imported, particularly for use in summer weddings and events.
Buying Tips: Choose clusters where one or two flowers are already open to ensure freshness and immediate visual appeal. Avoid any signs of bruising or damage.
Design Tips and Advice: Stephanotis works well as a transitional flower in floral arrangements. Its delicate, fragrant blossoms add a touch of romance and are particularly popular in bridal bouquets. The flowers can be wired for more intricate designs.
Flower Maturity: Purchase when one or two flowers per cluster are open for best results.
Expected Vase Life: 4–5 days.
Typical Stem Length: Often sold stemless or picked in clusters.
Typical Bunch Size: Sold in clusters.
Floral Preservatives: Use floral preservatives to extend the vase life of Stephanotis.
Ethylene Sensitivity: Highly sensitive. Ensure Stephanotis is kept away from fruits and other ethylene-producing sources.
Temperature Requirements: Keep at a temperature above 6 °C, as Stephanotis is cold-sensitive.
Avoiding Potential Problems: Do not refrigerate below 6 °C and avoid misting with water, as this can cause brown spots on the petals. Handle the flowers gently to prevent bruising.
Cooling and Cool Rooms: Avoid cool storage but keep in a cool place away from draughts.
Hydration and Vase Solutions: Use clean water with floral preservative added. For stemless blooms, suspend the short stems through a frame over water.
Care of Ethylene Sensitive Products: Ensure Stephanotis is treated to protect against ethylene and kept away from ethylene-producing sources.