Galax
1 entry found.
Galax
Common Name: Galax
Botanical Name: Galax urceolata (G. aphylla) (GAY-lax ur-see-o-LAY-ta (G. a-FY-la))
Decorative Life: 7-14 days.
Post Harvest Care:
- Recut stems under water and place into water plus regular household bleach at 20 drops (1/4 teaspoon) per quart or just soak the entire stem.
- Leaves damaged easily in shipping.
Family Roots:
- Member of the Diapensiaceae (diapensia family).
- Native to the Southeastern US.
- Two not so common relatives are Pyxidanthera and Shortia.
Personality:
- Single, round or heart-shaped leaves, 4 inches in diameter, occur on short stems.
- Plant is a herbaceous perennial.
- Flowers are not fragrant. Plant is mostly used for cut foliage.
Availability: Year-round.
Flower Color: Not applicable.
Storage Specifics: 36-41F, in water.
Tidbits:
- From the Greek "gala" (milk), referring to the white flowers.
- Leaves are reddish green in autumn and winter.
- The old specific epithet name "aphylla" means without leaves, a seemingly misnomer since the leaves are of commercial value.
- Often used as background in wreaths, accent in oriental designs.