Bouvardia : Flower Facts

Meaning

Enthusiasm

Origins

A member of the Rubiaceae family, bouvardia is named for Dr. Charles Bouvard, a former superintendent of the Jardin du Roi in Paris and a physician to Louis XIII. Of the more than 30 bouvardia species known, most are shrubs and herbs native to Mexico and Central America. Bouvardia's more common relatives include gardenias, sweet woodruff, coffee and galium. Bouvardias are certainly not common flowers. If you study them closely, you find loose clusters of tubular star like flowers fringed with leaves and carried on tall stems. Each stem resembles a small bouquet in bright firework colours. They also have a faint delicate scent. Native to Mexico and Introduced to the UK in 1854,they are chiefly grown in sub-tropical zones and under glass in Holland.

Flower Availability and Vase Life

All year round.

7-10 days.

Care and Handling

Sensitive to cold temperatures, Do not store below 45 F. Cut the stems at a slant with a sharp knife and don't forget to use the flower food usually provided. They are particularly prone to water loss and should not be left out of water. If you do not havel flower food, re cut the stems frequently and remove excess foliage.

Florist Design Uses

Very versatile. The dainty, jasmine-like flowers are popular in wedding work.

Colours: Red, orange, peach, white and shades of pink.