statice

Statice is the common name for plants in the genus Limonium, a group of flowering perennials and biennials in the family Plumbaginaceae. They are valued for their airy panicles of small papery flowers and are widely grown as garden ornamentals and as cut and dried flowers.

Most species are herbaceous perennials native to coastal and salt-tolerant habitats in the Mediterranean region, the Atlantic coasts of Europe and Africa, and parts of Asia. They typically form basal rosettes of green leaves and send up slender stems bearing panicles of tiny flowers in shades of blue, violet, purple, pink, white, and sometimes yellow. Flowers dry well and retain color, making statice popular for dried arrangements.

Culture: Limonium species prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They tolerate drought better than many ornamentals and dislike heavy, waterlogged soils. Propagation is by seed or cuttings; many garden forms are treated as annuals in temperate climates. They may require support for taller cultivars and benefit from deadheading or cutting back after flowering.

Uses: In horticulture, statice is grown for borders and mixed flower beds and, especially, for floristry and dried arrangements. The dried stems retain color for long periods, making them popular in arrangements and crafts.

Pests and diseases: common problems include root rot in wet soils and occasional aphids or thrips; powdery mildew can occur in humid conditions. In general, good drainage and air circulation help.

Notes: The term statice is often used specifically for Limonium sinuatum, a widely cultivated cut flower. Many other Limonium species are grown for similar uses.