Eustoma is a genus of only three species in the Gentianaceae family, native to southern United States, Mexico, Caribbean and South America.
Eustoma, also known as Lisianthus or Prairie Gentian, can be annual or perennial, depending on where the plant is grown. The plant has large, beautiful and showy bell-shaped flowers in single or double-petal varieties.
The genus name comes from the Greek words “eu”, meaning beautiful, and “stoma”, which means mouth, referring to its coloring and shape.
Common name “Lisianthus” is derived from the Greek words “lysis” (“dissolution”) and “anthos” (“flower”).
The flower means happiness, joy and positive energy.
Aside from that, Eustoma can symbolize gratitude, longevity, peace, charm and love.
Single forms of Eustoma resemble Tulips or Papavers (Poppies), while double forms look like Roses or Peonies.
Double-flowered varieties are often mistaken for garden Roses.
The American, Asian and European markets prefer the single varieties, while Australian consumers demand the double-flowered varieties.
