Flower Library
Ruscus
Ruscus aculeatus · Spargelgewächse (Asparagaceae)
Ruscus, also known as butcher's broom, is the most reliable cut greenery we know. Its rich, glossy green stems give every bouquet structure and depth, and they often outlast the flowers they accompany. We source our ruscus in A1 quality directly via the Veiling Rhein-Maas, which shows in its exceptional staying power.
- Season
- Year-round
- Vase life
- 14–30 days
- Latin name
- Ruscus aculeatus
- Colors
- deep green, dark green, glossy green
Two types dominate the trade: so-called Israeli ruscus (botanically usually Ruscus hypophyllum) has broader, lance-shaped and slightly overlapping leaves on firm, upright stems. Italian ruscus carries finer, narrower and more elongated leaves, giving it a more delicate, playful look. Both belong to the same genus within the asparagus family.
In floristry, ruscus is our workhorse for filler greenery and base structure. It forms the framework in bouquets, table arrangements, sympathy work and large event decorations. A botanical curiosity: what looks like leaves are in fact flattened short-shoot structures called phylloclades. It is exactly this firm structure that makes ruscus so stable in shape.
Quality shows in plump, deep dark-green phylloclades with no yellow tips, in firm rather than limp stems, and in an even sheen. Freshly cut, A1-selected stems easily last two to four weeks as cut greenery, many considerably longer. Ruscus therefore comfortably outlasts the industry's classic seven days.
Stylistically, ruscus is an all-rounder. Israeli ruscus gives classic, dense bouquets body, while the delicate Italian ruscus is ideal for loose, natural and romantic bridal bouquets and hanging garlands. It harmonises with almost everything, from roses through peonies to tulips, while staying discreetly in the background.
Care
- 01Cut the stems fresh at an angle and place them in a clean vase with fresh, cool water.
- 02Remove the lower phylloclades that would otherwise sit in the water, so the water does not turn foul.
- 03Change the water every three to four days and briefly rinse the vase while doing so.
- 04Ruscus is undemanding, but rewards occasional misting of the phylloclades with renewed sheen.
- 05Avoid direct heat from radiators and full sun, then the green stays firm and rich for weeks.
- 06Leftover stems dry well and keep their shape for a long time as dried greenery.
Frequently asked
- How long does ruscus last in the vase?
- Very long. As cut greenery, ruscus lasts two to four weeks with clean water and a cool spot, often even longer. Our A1 stems from the Veiling Rhein-Maas are among the most durable greenery there is.
- Is ruscus toxic to cats, dogs and children?
- Yes, ruscus is considered toxic to pets and should be kept out of reach of cats, dogs and small children. The plant contains steroidal saponins, chiefly ruscogenin, which can cause gastrointestinal upset. The red berries that butcher's broom may form are especially toxic. Simply handling the cut stems carries little risk, but swallowing plant parts should be avoided.
- When is ruscus in season?
- As evergreen cut greenery, ruscus is available all year round. We receive it in fresh quality via the Veiling throughout the year, with berry-bearing stems for winter and Christmas decoration mainly from late summer into winter.
- What is the difference between Italian and Israeli ruscus?
- Israeli ruscus has broader, more densely set leaves and firm stems, giving classic bouquets plenty of body. Italian ruscus carries finer, narrower and longer leaves and looks more delicate and romantic, ideal for loose bridal bouquets and garlands.