Tuberose

August 1996

Tuberose

(Polianthes tuberosa)

DESCRIPTION:

Numerous funnel shaped, waxy, white, 2-1/2" flowers form a terminal spike on top of a leafy, wiry stem. The flowers are very fragrant.

COLORS:

White

AVAILABILITY:

February to October

FRAGRANT?

Yes

USES IN ARRANGEMENT:

Main lines, secondary

SELECTION GUIDE:

Look for spike with most florets open.

RECOMMENDED FOR HOME CULTURE?

No

CARE:

Before arranging, recut stems, remove foliage that will be under water & put in mix of warm water & floral preservative for a few hours or overnight. Place arrangement away from direct sunlight, heat vents, air conditioners and drafts. Water and remove dying blooms and foliage daily. To prolong vase life, every 4 - 5 days, recut stems & clean container thoroughly. Rearrange remaining flowers, adding mixture of warm water & floral preservative to your "new" arrangement. Floral preservative is recommended and is available commercially.

NOTES:

Grown in Southern France as source of perfume. In Floragraphy this flower symbolizes "injury", "Love's flame has singed my wings." Used often in corsages and for weddings. Potted bulbs take 4 - 5 months to bloom.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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