Lisianthus

- Vietnamese name: cát tường, kiết tường, lan tường.

- English Name: Lisianthus.

- Scientific name: Eustoma grandiflorum (Raf) Shinn, nomenclature: Eustoma russellianum, of the Gentianaceae family.

Lisianthus is originated from western United States, with a good tolerance to cold. Lisianthus is herbaceous with smooth and succulent leaves. Depending on the variety, soil conditions, it can be a short-day plant or perennial plant (1-2 years). In Vietnam, Lisianthus is grown mainly in Dalat.

Photo: Viet Linh

The flower is symmetric, bell-shaped, bisexual, and self-pollinating. There are 2 types of flowers: single and double flowers with many colors: cream, purple, yellow, pink, red fade, dark purple, white with purple. The seed size is very small with oily endosperm and large embryo; ripe seed has a black color.

Lisianthus has 2 types: single and double flowers with many colors. Time of sowing until blooming lasts from 7-8 months. Flowers’ heights are from 15-120 cm, depending on the varieties. The flower has an oval or elliptical shape.

Lisianthus grows well and develops in the following conditions:

- Temperature: 15-20 degrees C.

- Natural lighting: 70-80 Klux, 16-18 hours of lighting/day.

- Soil humidity: 65-75%

- pH of soil: 6.0 to 6.8

- The soil should have high nutrient content with calcium, humus, and is well drained.

Lisianthus after being cut off from the main branch can keep fresh from 1-2 weeks if it is cared well.

Lisianthus has a meaning of "lucky" or “auspicious.” Thus, it is popular in both weekdays and holidays.