Limonium

Limonium is a genus of flowering plants in the family Plumbaginaceae, commonly known as sea lavender or statice. It comprises about 120 species of herbaceous perennials native to coastal and salt-tolerant habitats in Europe, North Africa, western Asia, and the Mediterranean region. Plants usually form a basal rosette of leaves and send up slender stems bearing panicles of small, papery flowers that range in color from purple and pink to blue and white. The flowers are valued for their long-lasting color in fresh bouquets and, especially, in dried arrangements.

Limonium is grown as an ornamental plant for borders, containers, and cut flowers. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil and is tolerant of saline or alkaline conditions often found in coastal gardens. Most species require regular moisture during the growing season but dislike waterlogged soils. The best-known cultivated species is Limonium sinuatum, commonly called statice, prized for durable blooms that hold their color when dried.

Propagation is by seed or division, and many cultivars have compact growth and longer-lasting inflorescences. Flowering typically occurs in summer to autumn, depending on species and climate. In cultivation, attention to drainage and solar exposure helps minimize disease and improve vase life.

Pests and diseases include aphids, powdery mildew, botrytis, and root rot in poorly drained soils. Limonium species are generally grown for their decorative flower heads and drought-tolerant, coastal-adapted growth habit, making them a staple in ornamental gardens and floral design worldwide.