Lisianthus ‘Rosita Red’, botanically known as Eustoma grandiflorum, is a highly valued flower for its elegant appearance and lasting beauty. This specific cultivar is popular with both florists and home gardeners. Its consistent performance and visual impact make it a favored choice for cut flower arrangements and garden displays.
Key Characteristics
The ‘Rosita Red’ series features a rich, deep red hue, often described as red-dark purple, creating a dramatic visual impact. Its unique double-petal structure forms a full, rose-like bloom, earning it the nickname “the rose without thorns”. These medium-sized flowers have thick petals, contributing to their durability and ease of transport.
‘Rosita Red’ Lisianthus also boasts strong, sturdy stems, beneficial for garden support and floral arrangements. Stems can reach heights of 30 to 48 inches. This combination of robust stems, thick petals, and abundant blooms contributes to its excellent vase life, making it a premium selection for long-lasting floral displays.
Growing Lisianthus Rosita Red
Lisianthus ‘Rosita Red’ thrives in full sun, ideally receiving six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. In regions with intense summer heat, afternoon shade can prevent flower scorch. Consistent light promotes optimal flowering.
Well-draining, fertile soil is necessary for healthy growth, as Lisianthus is sensitive to waterlogged conditions. An ideal soil pH for ‘Rosita Red’ ranges from 6.5 to 7.0, leaning neutral to slightly alkaline. Amending with organic matter like compost improves drainage and fertility. Raised beds are also an excellent option for proper drainage.
Consistent moisture is important for Lisianthus, especially during early development, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to fungal diseases. Allow the topsoil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root issues. Drip irrigation is recommended to deliver water directly to roots while keeping foliage dry, reducing disease risk.
During the active growing season, ‘Rosita Red’ benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer, or one with slightly higher phosphorus and potassium, supports robust growth and abundant blooms. Calcium nitrate-based fertilizers are recommended for building strong stems and preventing soft growth. Maintain soil nutrient levels as recommended by soil tests.
When planting from seeds, pelleted seeds are easier to handle. Seeds should be sown indoors 12 to 14 weeks before the last expected frost, as they take several months to reach transplant size. Seedlings are ready for transplanting when they have developed four true leaves, typically around 60 days post-emergence. Transplant young seedlings into beds, spacing them 4 to 6 inches apart, ensuring the stem is not planted too deep.
General care involves ensuring good air circulation to prevent fungal issues, especially since Lisianthus is native to low humidity areas. Supporting taller varieties with netting or stakes prevents stems from flopping under the weight of their blooms. While relatively drought-tolerant once established, consistent care maximizes flower production.
Harvesting and Using
For optimal vase life, harvest Lisianthus ‘Rosita Red’ stems when at least one or two flowers are fully open. Cutting stems in the cooler parts of the day is recommended. Use sharp, clean shears to make a fresh cut just above a set of leaves, which can encourage new growth.
Immediately after cutting, place stems into water to prevent wilting. To extend the freshness of cut flowers, remove any foliage that would fall below the waterline; this prevents bacterial growth. Re-cutting stems at a 45-degree angle every few days and changing water regularly helps with water uptake. Using a floral preservative or flower food can significantly increase vase life, often extending it to 10-14 days or even up to two to three weeks.
While primarily celebrated as a cut flower, ‘Rosita Red’ Lisianthus also makes a striking addition to garden beds and containers. Their upright habit and abundant, rose-like blooms create visual interest and elegance. The vibrant red color ensures a continuous display throughout the blooming season.