Blue Sea Lavender
Limonium perezii
Blue Sea Lavender is a showy evergreen perennial with large clusters of papery purple-blue flowers held on tall stems above leathery foliage. This Canary Island native is prized for fresh and dried arrangements.
Plumbaginaceae (Leadwort family)
Nearly year-round in frost-free coastal climates; peak early summer to early fall; intermittent blooming for months
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Cultural Significance
Sea Lavender has been valued for centuries as an "everlasting" flower due to its papery texture and long-lasting color when dried. The genus name "Limonium" comes from the Greek word for meadow, though many species grow in coastal salt marshes. "Perezii" honors a botanist named Perez. The common name "Statice" reflects its former genus name. These flowers symbolize remembrance and lasting memories because they retain their beauty indefinitely when dried. In the Victorian language of flowers, sea lavender meant "remembrance" and "sympathy." Widely cultivated for the cut flower industry, it's a staple in both fresh and dried floral arrangements. The plant's ability to thrive in harsh coastal conditions symbolizes resilience and adaptability.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun for best flowering and sturdy stems
Water
Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established; occasional deep watering during dry spells; dislikes standing water
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Rocky, Poor soils acceptable, Not particular about pH
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in full sun with excellent drainage
Tolerates salt spray, wind, drought, and heat
Space plants 18 inches apart for mass plantings
Water regularly first season to establish; then drought-tolerant
Remove old foliage in early spring before new growth
Deadhead old flower stems to encourage new blooms
Divide clumps every 2-3 years for vigor
Hardy zones 9-11; treat as annual or container plant in colder zones
Protect from crown rot by ensuring good drainage
Minimal fertilizer needed; thrives in poor soils
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Cut flowers (fresh, 7-14 days vase life)
- Dried flower arrangements (retains color for years)
- Coastal and seaside gardens (salt-tolerant)
- Mediterranean gardens and xeriscaping
- Rock gardens and gravelly areas
- Border plantings and mass displays
- Container gardens for patios
- Butterfly and pollinator gardens
Traditional Uses
- Historically used as astringent in traditional medicine
- No significant modern medicinal applications
- Primarily valued for ornamental and decorative purposes
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Blue Sea Lavender
how do you dry sea lavender flowers?
Cut Sea Lavender when flowers are fully colored, remove foliage, and hang stems upside down in a dark, dry location with good air circulation. Flowers retain their purple color beautifully for years when dried properly.
is sea lavender the same as lavender?
No, Sea Lavender (Limonium) is not related to true lavender (Lavandula). Despite similar names and both having purple flowers, they're in different plant families and have different growing requirements and uses.
does sea lavender spread?
Sea Lavender forms slowly expanding clumps from woody rhizomes but is not invasive. It spreads gradually and can be divided every 2-3 years. It may self-seed lightly in ideal conditions but is easily controlled.
can sea lavender tolerate salt?
Yes, Sea Lavender is highly salt-tolerant and thrives in coastal gardens. It handles salt spray, ocean winds, and even occasional saltwater inundation, making it ideal for beachfront and seaside landscaping.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Statice
Limonium sinuatum
Statice is a hardy annual flower prized for its papery, colorful bracts that retain their color when dried. It symbolizes remembrance, success, and sympathy, making it popular for both fresh and dried arrangements.
Armeria
Armeria maritima
Armeria is a hardy coastal perennial forming neat cushions of grass-like foliage topped with globe-shaped flower heads. It symbolizes endurance, sympathy, and remembrance, thriving in harsh seaside conditions.
Sea Lavender
Limonium spp.
Sea Lavender is a versatile perennial known for its airy sprays of papery flowers. Despite its name, it's not related to true lavender. Valued for fresh and dried arrangements, it brings delicate texture to gardens.