The statice flower is a genus of around 120 species, and is sometimes referred to as Sea Lavender because of both its common light purple hue, and its habit of growing abundantly near salt marshes and coastlines. These herbaceous perennial plants are a member of the plumbaginaceae family, and have a wide distribution between Europe, North America, Asia and Africa, but have the largest diversity in the Canary Islands. Statice flowers have moderately-sized, wispy blooms that burst forth from firm stems. Their heads – which can come in the traditional lavender-like purple, as well as white, salmon, red, yellow and blue – are made up of a five-lobed calyx and corolla. After the flower has fallen away, the calyx will often remain intact.
The statice flower is considered everlasting, and it is one of the most well loved dried plants in use. When properly dried, these flowers retain their vibrant colors, and many florists and crafters like to incorporate them into a variety of projects. Florists often create sprays of the flower, or place them into fresh bouquets as a filler; while crafters like them for creating colored paper, scrapbook pages, greeting cards and wreaths – amongst other items. The statice flower is also said to have a large variety of medicinal and therapeutic uses. Many people like to use the extracted oils of this plant in aromatherapy. The scent – though unpleasant in some varieties – is said to be faint, and may create the feeling of ease and letting go of troubles. Medicinally, the flower is thought to be a powerful astringent when used in the form of an infusion. It is also frequently used as a home remedy for such things as intestinal upsets, to help ease irritation of mucous membranes and skin conditions. The flowers may also be useful when turned into a potent mouthwash, as they might aid in easing toothaches, and curing mouth ulcerations.
The statice flower is most often associated with sympathy and remembrance, and is commonly given – in both its fresh and long-lasting dried forms – to those who are mourning a loss. On the other hand, these flowers can represent everlasting beauty and success. They also express a feeling of longing for another person. When given as a gift, they are a simple way of telling someone how much you miss them.