Flowers & Their Meanings: Lisianthus

There is nothing more beautiful than a field of glorious lisianthus, also known as Texas Bluebells, Prairie Gentian, or Lira de San Pedro.

Descended from a North American wildflower and native to Texas and Mexico, the single flower resembles poppies or tulips, while the double variety has the appearance of peonies or roses. In fact, another colloquial name for the lisianthus is the ‘poor man’s rose’, due to its striking similarity to the queen of flowers. Standing up to 60cm, these herbaceous annuals are sometimes grown as a stunning dwarf variety.    

Considered a relatively new genus, the lisianthus dates to as far back as the Victorian era, where it was thought to symbolise a flashy or showy person. Sometimes referred to by its scientific name, eustoma, the beautiful lisianthus ranges in colour from purple and blue-violet, to white and pink, with the colour of each lisianthus flower holding its own unique meaning.

Eustoma stems from the Greek words 'eu', which denotes something beautiful, and 'stoma', meaning mouth. Lisianthus on the other hand comes from the Greek words 'lysis', which translates as 'dissolution', and 'anthos', meaning flower.

With delicate petals and oval shaped leaves, it has been said to symbolise appreciation, making the lisianthus an absolutely ideal gift for giving to loved ones whom you think the world of. Associated with those born under the star sign of Sagittarius, lisianthus blooms are a perfect gift for those born between November 22 and December 21.

They are also perfect as a thank you gift, and are often given as a romantic gesture or to one for whom there is a deeply felt romantic attachment. Lisianthus are an ideal gift of appreciation, and represent admiration for a sociable friend. Also symbolising gratefulness and charisma, this beautiful long stemmed flower in cymes makes a perfect bouquet when wanting to show respect, love, acceptance, and acknowledgement.

As the lisianthus has its roots as a prairie flower, it is also suggested that it represents old-fashioned values and receptivity, calming thoughts and congeniality.    

Lisianthus’ are the ideal wedding flower (along with other beauties such as peonies, ranunculus and roses) and are often featured in centrepieces in wedding arrangements, as well as in bridal bouquets, corsages and boutonnieres.

This versatile bloom looks stunning when paired with flowers of similar size – such as roses, miniature gerberas and hyacinth – but they also hold the floor on their own. This gorgeous and stunning little blossom is an overall winner in the flower world and is always an appreciated gift.