Flower Library
Blue Lace Flower
Trachymene · Apiaceae
The blue lace flower, botanically Trachymene and formerly known as Didiscus, is a small rarity: hemispherical umbels of dozens of star-shaped florets in a rare, delicate sky blue. True blue is scarce in the flower kingdom, and exactly that makes this Australian so valuable for summer and wedding floristry. When it comes up at the Veiling Rhein-Maas in season, it is one of the lots you have to bid on early in the morning.
- Season
- June – July – August – September
- Vase life
- 7–10 days
- Latin name
- Trachymene
- Colors
- Sky blue, Lavender blue, Pale pink, White
The main cut species is Trachymene coerulea, usually as the variety Blue Lace with lavender-blue umbels on fine, slightly hairy stems. Alongside it are white and pale pink selections such as White Lace and Pink Lace, carrying the same lace character into other colour worlds.
Unlike the flat umbels of ammi, the trachymene umbel domes into a soft hemisphere that sits in a bouquet like a small blue cushion. The florets open from the outside inward, which makes ripeness easy to read: if the centre of the umbel is still in bud, the full vase life lies ahead.
In terms of colour, the dusty sky blue is a gift: it marries beautifully with pale pink, cream and apricot and gives pastel bridal bouquets the cool note that keeps them from turning saccharine. With scabiosa and sweet peas it creates an airy, summery meadow character.
In care the blue lace flower is more forgiving than its delicate looks suggest: seven to ten days of vase life are normal. The fine stems do kink easily though, so we transport them upright and tie them into bouquets without tension.
A typical mistake is a spot that is too warm: near a radiator or in harsh sun the blue fades visibly faster. Kept cool, the umbels hold their colour to the very end.
Is Blue Lace Flower toxic to children and pets?
- Children
- Mildly irritating
- Cats
- Mildly irritating
- Dogs
- Mildly irritating
No toxins documented, but little studied toxicologically. To be safe, keep out of reach of pets and small children.
Typical symptoms: If larger amounts are eaten, stomach upset cannot be ruled out.
In an emergency:call the German poison control centre in Bonn on +49 228 19240 (24/7) — for pets, contact an emergency vet directly. This information does not replace medical or veterinary advice.
Overview: toxic & non-toxic plants for cats, dogs and children
Care
- 01Cut the fine stems at an angle with a sharp knife; do not crush them.
- 02Remove the lower foliage so nothing sits in the water.
- 03Place in fresh water with flower food and check the level daily.
- 04Keep cool and avoid harsh sun, or the blue will fade.
- 05Change the water every two to three days.
- 06Transport the stems upright and tie loosely, as they kink easily.
Frequently asked
- How long does the blue lace flower last in the vase?
- Around seven to ten days if the centre of the umbel is still in bud at purchase. A cool spot out of direct sun preserves not only the freshness but also the blue colour.
- Is the blue lace flower toxic to cats or dogs?
- No toxins are documented for trachymene, but the species is little studied toxicologically. We therefore recommend keeping the bouquet out of reach of pets and small children, and seeking advice if larger amounts are eaten.
- Is the blue lace flower really blue?
- Yes, a dusty sky to lavender blue, not a near-blue rescued into violet. Truly blue cut flowers are rare; besides trachymene, mainly delphinium, cornflower and forget-me-not come to mind, which is why it is in such demand for blue colour schemes.
- When can you get the blue lace flower from the florist?
- The main season runs from June to September. Because the quantities at the auction are modest, it pays to order it from us a few days ahead for a specific date.