Dusty MillerJacobaea maritimaLacy Bird Encyclopedia
foliage · easy · mid
Dusty Miller
Jacobaea maritima · aka silver ragwort, cineraria
Dusty Miller is grown for its soft, deeply lobed leaves coated in fine silvery-white felt, a cool foil for almost any flower. Florists use it as a delicate silver foliage that brightens bouquets, boutonnieres and winter or wedding work. The felted surface gives a velvety, moonlit quality that pairs especially well with whites, blush and muted tones. Though its stems are shorter and softer than woody greenery, it lasts well when kept dry and cool.
At a glance
| Family | Asteraceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | Mediterranean region |
| Peak season | May, June, July |
| Availability | January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December |
| Stem length | 15–40 cm |
| Vase life | 7–10 days |
| Colors | green |
| Price tier | mid |
Conditioning
Cut the soft stem on an angle and place it in shallow, clean, cool water. Keep the felted leaves above the waterline and dry, as trapped moisture spots and rots them. Avoid misting the foliage, which marks the silver surface. Store cool and handle gently to protect the delicate felt.
Care in the vase
- •Cut stems on an angle
- •Keep felted leaves out of the water
- •Do not mist the foliage
- •Use shallow, clean, cool water
- •Store cool and away from humidity
- •Handle gently to protect the silver felt
Design role & symbolism
Symbolismcomfort, protection, serenity
Occasionswedding, bridal-bouquet, boutonniere, corsage, winter wedding, editorial
Substituteseucalyptus silver dollar, ozothamnus, pistacia
foliagetexturalsilverweddingdelicategarden-style
