Cerinthe major ‘Pride of Gibraltar’
Cerinthe major ‘Pride of Gibraltar’ was included in Ball’s 2024 Foliage Flourish Collection. This is a super-cool foliage filler for bouquets for many reasons.
The blue-ish green foliage is quite different than other types of greens, almost rubbery to the feel. I find the arching tips of the stems remarkably interesting with their own bell-type flower, which are bracts facing downward with a touch of violet color even though it is mainly used for foliage.The color changes into a darker blue as nighttime temperatures cool. During the day they are a lighter, more of a purple color. Some would say this is a hard-to-find annual, which adds to its value for the flower farmer – it’s not widely seen, so it’s new to customers.
‘Pride of Gibraltar’ is native to Greece hence it does very well in Mediterranean climates. It can also do well in cooler climates. However, it did great in the full sun in our hot and humid summer here in West Chicago, Illinois.
Cerinthe attracts bees and hummingbirds but not deer, which adds to its advantage for flower farming. Be sure to harvest after the stems begin to fully arch but before seeds start to form. Cut stems in the morning before temperatures begin to rise to avoid wilting and to ensure the best vase life, which can be 7-10 days.
Other common names can be Shrimp Plant, Honeywort, or Wax Flower.
‘Pride of Gibraltar’ will be available in 2025 from Ball Seed as seed, plugs, and as part of the Foliage Flourish Collection.
Don’t miss your chance to add ‘Pride of Gibraltar’ into your mix for your spring bouquets! Order with Ball Seed or your Ball Colorlink Representative now to ensure best availability from your favorite supplier.