Didiscus caerulea ‘Lacy Blue’ – Airy Umbels in Powder-Blue Tones

Didiscus caerulea ‘Lacy Blue’, often called the Blue Lace Flower, produces domed clusters of small, fragrant, sky-blue blooms held on elegant, branching stems. The lacy flower heads resemble delicate scabious or pincushion blooms, giving a light, ethereal feel to arrangements. It has become a favourite among British cut-flower growers for its fine texture, subtle scent, and ability to blend effortlessly with both bold and pastel palettes.

Growing Conditions

This half-hardy annual prefers full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Choose a warm, sheltered site with good airflow. It performs best in open ground or raised beds where stems can develop freely without overcrowding.

Planting Guide

Sowing Indoors: February to April. Sow 2 mm deep in trays or modules of seed compost at around 18–21 °C. Germination typically takes 14–21 days.
Transplanting: Move seedlings into pots once large enough to handle. Harden off and plant out after the last frost once nights remain above 10 °C.
Direct Sowing: Possible from May when soil has warmed. Thin seedlings to approximately 25–30 cm apart.
Spacing: 25–30 cm between plants allows graceful branching and easy cutting access.

Care & Maintenance

Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged.
Feeding: Apply a balanced liquid feed every two weeks from bud formation to peak flowering.
Supporting: Light staking may be useful in breezy sites to protect stems.
Deadheading: Remove spent blooms to extend flowering and encourage fresh umbels.

Flowering & Cut Flower Tips

Flowers generally appear from July to September. For cutting, harvest when most florets on each umbel have opened. Condition stems in cool water for several hours before arranging. Their fine, wiry stems and delicate form make them invaluable for softening mixed bouquets and floral displays.

Garden Impact

‘Lacy Blue’ introduces movement and lightness into planting schemes. Its soft, sky-blue colour works beautifully among whites, silvers, and pinks, or as contrast to richer summer tones. Beyond its ornamental use, the nectar-rich blooms attract bees, butterflies and hoverflies, supporting a healthy garden ecosystem.