Photo: Poyt448 Peter Woodard · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Smokebush
Smokebush, or Conospermum, is a Western Australian native whose masses of tiny, woolly flowers create a soft grey-white haze, like drifting smoke. It is a delicate, airy filler that lends a romantic, misty texture to bouquets and loose, natural designs. The fine stems are long-lasting fresh and dry exceptionally well, keeping their smoky cloud for months. It pairs beautifully with proteas, textural foliage and pastel blooms.
| Family | Proteaceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | Australia (Western Australia) |
| Peak season | March, April, May |
| Availability | February, March, April, May, June |
| Stem length | 40–70 cm |
| Vase life | 7–14 days |
| Colors | white, green |
| Price tier | mid |
Recut the slender stems on an angle and condition in clean water with flower food. Remove any lower foliage before arranging. Handle the delicate flower heads gently, as the fine haze can shed if roughly handled. To dry, hang or stand the stems upright in a warm, airy place.
- •Recut stems at an angle
- •Remove lower foliage
- •Handle the flower heads gently
- •Keep in clean, fresh water
- •Air-dry upright to preserve the haze
- •Store away from drafts that scatter the flowers
Bouquet Builder — by Lacy BirdDesign the bouquet. See it as a photo.
Botanical reference
- Common name
- smokebushes
- Also known as
- smoke bush, conospermum
- Distribution
- New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, Western Australia
Open-data sources: GBIF, Wikidata (CC0/CC BY)
Frequently asked questions
When is Smokebush in season?
Smokebush peaks in March, April, May, and florists can usually source it February, March, April, May, June. Availability shifts by region and greenhouse supply.
How long does Smokebush last in a vase?
Expect 7–14 days with proper conditioning — a clean vase, fresh water every couple of days, flower food, and a cool spot away from ripening fruit and direct heat.
What can I use instead of Smokebush?
Good substitutes for Smokebush include Ozothamnus (rice flower), Statice, Waxflower. Match on look, colour and season — our substitute finder ranks the closest alternatives.
What does Smokebush symbolise?
Smokebush is associated with softness, mystery, dreams.
How do you care for cut Smokebush?
Recut stems at an angle
Related flowers
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Lacy Bird Flower Encyclopedia — “Smokebush”. https://lacybird.com/flowers/smokebush/<a href="https://lacybird.com/flowers/smokebush/">Lacy Bird Flower Encyclopedia — Smokebush</a>