Lisianthus (lat. Eustoma) has silky petals that at first glance resemble roses, only lighter and more delicate. Each stem carries several open flowers and a few more buds, so a lisianthus bouquet keeps renewing itself in the vase and lasts a long time. In Lithuania it is known as eustoma – and is often searched for under the misspelling “austoma”.
Wild lisianthus comes from the southern United States and Mexico. Cut flowers are grown in greenhouses, so they are available all year round. In this guide: how to care for lisianthus so it lasts up to two weeks, which colours there are and what it symbolises.
How long does lisianthus last in a vase
Lisianthus is one of the longest-lasting cut flowers: well cared for, it lasts 10–14 days in a vase. As the first flowers fade, the buds open, so the bouquet looks fresh for a long time. When choosing lisianthus, pick stems with both open flowers and buds that already show colour.
How to care for lisianthus in a vase
- Cut the stems at an angle, 2–3 cm, with a sharp knife or secateurs – an angled cut takes up water better.
- Remove the lower leaves so they do not sit in the water: leaves rotting in water encourage bacteria.
- Place in a clean vase with cool water and the flower food that comes with your bouquet.
- Keep it somewhere cool – away from direct sun, radiators and fruit: ripening fruit releases ethylene, which makes flowers wilt faster.
- Change the water every 2–3 days and trim the stems by about 1 cm each time.
- Remove faded flowers – the stem will keep feeding the buds and the bouquet will look neat.
Why lisianthus buds don’t open
Small, completely green buds often never open – that is normal, they add lightness to the bouquet. Buds that already show colour open within a few days. Flower food in the water and a warmer (but not hot) room help them.
What to do if lisianthus wilts
If the flowers droop, trim the stems by 2–3 cm while holding them under water and put them in cool, fresh water. If they do not recover within a few hours, remove the wilted flowers and move the remaining stems to a smaller vase. More general tips in our flower care guide.
Lisianthus colours and shapes
Wild lisianthus is purple, but breeders have created many shades:
- white and cream – a classic for weddings and minimalist bouquets;
- pink – from barely blush to bright pink;
- purple and lilac – rich, evening colours;
- green and champagne – soft, neutral tones that florists love to pair with eucalyptus;
- bicolour – white flowers with purple or pink edges.
By shape, lisianthus can be single, bell-shaped, or double with several rows of petals. Double varieties look the most like roses, so they often replace them in bouquets.
What lisianthus symbolises
In the language of flowers lisianthus stands for gratitude, charm and a lasting bond. In Lithuania it is most often associated with tenderness and femininity, so lisianthus bouquets are often given to mothers, partners and colleagues. Colour adds further nuance:
- white – purity and new beginnings, which is why brides love it;
- pink – tenderness and romance;
- purple – charm and respect.
Because lisianthus lasts so long, it also makes a good thank-you gift – for a teacher, a doctor or a colleague.
What to combine lisianthus with
Lisianthus goes with almost any flower. With roses it makes a classic romantic bouquet, with carnations and chrysanthemums a long-lasting everyday one, and with gypsophila and eucalyptus a light, airy one. White lisianthus is often used in bridal bouquets because it is light and stays beautiful for a long time.
Tired of the bouquet? Take it apart and put single lisianthus stems into small vases – you will get a lovely table or windowsill decoration.
Bouquets with lisianthus
We use lisianthus in many of our bouquets – from romantic pink ones to autumnal ones with berries and anthuriums. You will find them all under bouquets with lisianthus; we deliver in Vilnius and across Lithuania.
First FrostPink lisianthus with a pink anthurium and red hypericum berries – our soft autumn bouquet.From €35View the bouquet →
Frequently asked questions about lisianthus
How long does lisianthus last in a vase?
Well cared for – 10–14 days. Change the water every 2–3 days and trim the stems each time.
Is it eustoma or lisianthus?
Both: the Latin genus is Eustoma, while florists in English usually call it lisianthus. “Austoma” is a common misspelling.
What is the Latin name of lisianthus?
Eustoma grandiflorum.
Why don’t lisianthus buds open?
Completely green, small buds often stay closed – that is normal. Buds that show colour are helped by flower food in the water and a warmer room.
Does lisianthus have a scent?
Hardly any. That makes it suitable for people who dislike strong floral scents and for table decorations near food.
Can lisianthus be grown in a pot?
Yes, but lisianthus is a warmth-loving plant, usually grown as an annual, and indoors it needs a lot of light. It is easier to enjoy it as a cut flower.
