Eustoma

Source: TH

Context: Exotic Eustoma has bloomed for the first time in Odisha in a polyhouse at Sanatanpali, Sambalpur district, developed by CSIR–NBRI.

• Until NBRI’s breakthrough, Eustoma (Lisianthus) was mostly imported from countries like the Netherlands and Kenya for premium events, weddings, and luxury décor.

About Eustoma:

• What it is? Eustoma, also known as Lisianthus or Prairie Gentian, is a herbaceous annual flower from the gentian family. It is prized globally for its long vase life and vibrant colors, making it a premium ornamental flower.

• Eustoma, also known as Lisianthus or Prairie Gentian, is a herbaceous annual flower from the gentian family.

• It is prized globally for its long vase life and vibrant colors, making it a premium ornamental flower.

• Habitat & Native Region: Native to Mexico, southern USA, Caribbean, and northern South America. Typically grows in grasslands and disturbed areas, thriving in warm climates.

• Typically grows in grasslands and disturbed areas, thriving in warm climates.

• Key Features of Eustoma:

• Premium Ornamental Flower: Large, funnel-shaped blooms in multiple colors (pink, purple, white, blue) with long vase life, making it a florist favorite. Adaptability & Growth: Thrives in warm climates, grows 30–90 cm tall; Sambalpur success shows it can be cultivated even in hot Indian conditions. High Economic Potential: Can be harvested twice a year, with profit potential up to ₹2 lakh per acre per season — a boost for farmer incomes. Diversity & Appeal: Available in single and double-flowered varieties, including rare bicolored types, ideal for weddings, décor, and exports. Sustainability & Market Substitution: Reduces reliance on imported cut flowers, encourages local production, and supports CSIR-NBRI’s 400+ farmer clusters.

• Premium Ornamental Flower: Large, funnel-shaped blooms in multiple colors (pink, purple, white, blue) with long vase life, making it a florist favorite.

• Adaptability & Growth: Thrives in warm climates, grows 30–90 cm tall; Sambalpur success shows it can be cultivated even in hot Indian conditions.

• High Economic Potential: Can be harvested twice a year, with profit potential up to ₹2 lakh per acre per season — a boost for farmer incomes.

• Diversity & Appeal: Available in single and double-flowered varieties, including rare bicolored types, ideal for weddings, décor, and exports.

• Sustainability & Market Substitution: Reduces reliance on imported cut flowers, encourages local production, and supports CSIR-NBRI’s 400+ farmer clusters.

• Uses of Eustoma

• Cut Flower Industry – Popular in bouquets, décor; stays fresh for 2+ weeks.

• Export Floriculture – New export option; reduces reliance on rose exports.

• Retail & Hospitality – Ideal for hotels, events; lasts longer than roses/gerberas.

• Gardening & Landscaping – Dwarf varieties for pots, balconies, landscaping.