Amelias Flowers

With its dark green, shapely stem coupled with the bold, bright green foliage, the Ruscus Greenery is both classical and traditional. Also known as Butcher’s Broom, the deep green elliptical leaves contrast a multitude of blooms, making the Ruscus Greenery the perfect ‘filler flower’ in any arrangement. Aside from being bold and bright, the Ruscus Greenery is very durable and can have a vase life up to a month or longer! With a year-round availability, I figured we should definitely get to know the Ruscus a little better.

ORIGIN

The Ruscus is native to Northwest Africa and is part of the Asparagaceae family. When researching, I had no idea what that ‘family’ was, so I continued to dig. When I saw the word “Asparagaceae” I immediately read “asparagus”, but thought that had to be too easy. Could this greenery really be in the same family? Well, surprise, surprise, it is! How fun!

Are you looking to add a new centerpiece to your table this month? Or maybe you need a little green pick-me-up for your desk at work. Either way, here are some tips to keeping this luscious, linear plant around for as long as possible:

In-Vase Ruscus Greenery

1. Vase
   Choose a vase that will hold at least 4 inches of fresh, cool water.
2. Remove Foliage
   Gently remove any foliage that will sit below the water. The leaves left under water will rot, causing bacteria to grow – this will shorten the vase life significantly.
3. Cut Stems
   With a sharp knife, cut the stems about an inch from the bottom. As soon as you cut the stems, place the Ruscus in the prepared water.
4. Avoid Overexposure
   Keep away from excessive heat and direct sunlight for the longest life possible.
5. Change Water
   If the water appears cloudy, change it every few days.  

Well known for its leathery-green leaves, the eucalyptus provides a remarkable visual appeal in any kind of arrangement. Each leaf is intricately lined with glands containing a fragrant oil; some eucalyptus species provide a more pleasant aroma than others. What I find most compelling, though, is that the leaves grow in pairs on opposite sides of the stem, in four directions – like a square!

I must admit that I went to a whole new ‘nerd’ level when researching the eucalyptus this week. I found so many fascinating facts – like hundreds! I felt like I was learning about a mythical creature with a cache of powers that we have only just begun to tap into. Ok, that’s maybe a tad extreme, BUT the reality is that the eucalyptus is a total boss and I am no longer surprised by its longstanding popularity. Here are some of my favorite facts;

1. There are more than 700 species of eucalyptus.

1. Eucalyptus Trees Can Prevent Malaria  

It’s no secret that eucalyptus trees are lovers of water, thriving in marshy areas. You know what else isn’t a secret? Pesky little mosquitos love water – they freaking love it. So, since Malaria relies on a specific kind of mosquito for survival, in some areas eucalyptus trees are planted as a double weapon of defense. They reduce the amount of stagnant water, while also producing cineole, which helps reduce the mosquitos.

1. Cineole: Secret Weapon

Eucalyptus essential oil has been around forever. Long before we had our plug-in diffusers or easy application “roll-on” oils. The ingredient, cineole, has been used in Indigenous Australian medicine as an antibacterial and anti-fungal agent for centuries, primarily as a treatment of respiratory issues.

1. Koala Bear

You know the eucalyptus is important when koala bears practically live on eucalyptus leaves and bark. Definitely why they are so cute.

1. Rainbow Eucalyptus

Lastly, since I recently added this to my bucket-list of things I need to see, I wanted to share it with you. The Eucalyptus deglupta, commonly known as the rainbow eucalyptus, is both tall and stunning.  The unique, multi-hued bark is distinctive and breathtaking. Since patches of the bark shed at different times, the inner bark displays different colors depending on what stage of maturity it’s in. Please look this tree up! You will see lively blues and purples, coupled with hues or orange and maroon – it’s the most tangible rainbow ever.

BAM - thank me later when you impress your friends with all these new facts! If you’re in the area, come by the truck and pick up some magical eucalyptus.

xx Mattie 

1. Vase
   Choose a vase that covers at least half the height of the stems. This will allow the tulips to stretch and grow to their full potential during their life in the vase. In turn, this allows you to enjoy them that much longer!

2. Cutting Stems
   Again, tulips will continue to grow in the vase, even after you have cut the stems. For the best results, try to cut the stems at a 45 degree angle. This will allow them to soak up the correct amount of water needed for growth.

3. Feed Me Water (and tell me I’m pretty)
   When you find the perfect vase, fill it about three-quarters of the way, as tulips LOVE drinking water (if you haven’t gathered that yet). Try to change the water every other day and add flower food to keep your tulips happy.

4. Avoid Overexposure
   Tulips grow and open based on sunlight, so avoid placing the vase in direct sunlight or heat, as they’ll wilt faster once the blooms open up.

5. LOVE
   Be amazed by their beauty and love them well.