Trachelium caeruleum 'Lake Michigan Violet' – Elegant lacecap flowers in deep violet

Trachelium caeruleum 'Lake Michigan Violet' is a refined and modern ornamental plant that has quickly become a staple in the world of garden and cut flowers. This cultivar is known for its rich, deep violet blooms, uniform growth habit, and excellent longevity as a cut flower. With its elegant umbels of thousands of tiny flowers, this Trachelium creates a soft, airy structure that complements any garden or flower arrangement. Amateur gardeners, professional growers, and florists alike value the plant for its vibrant color, reliability, and versatility.

Origin and characteristics

Trachelium caeruleum, also known as throat flower or throat flower, originates from the sunny Mediterranean region. The 'Lake Michigan' line was developed specifically for professional cut flower cultivation, where uniformity, sturdy stems, and intense colors are key. The 'Lake Michigan Violet' variety is distinguished by its deep violet-purple hue, which can vary from dark violet to almost royal purple under varying light conditions.

Characteristic features:

• Botanical name: Trachelium caeruleum

• Cultivar: 'Lake Michigan Violet'

• Color: Intense violet

• Height: approximately 70–90 cm

• Flowering: Summer to early autumn

• Application: Cut flower, border plant, container plant

The plant forms compact, semi-circular umbels consisting of numerous small tubular flowers, which gives it a unique texture and voluminous appearance.

Cultivation and location

Trachelium caeruleum 'Lake Michigan Violet' grows best in a warm, sunny location with well-drained soil. A light, humus-rich soil encourages abundant flowering and healthy growth. Although Trachelium can tolerate some drought, it performs best when the soil remains evenly moist.

Care tips for optimal growth:

• Choose a sunny spot or light partial shade.

• Use an airy, well-drained soil.

• Water regularly, but avoid waterlogging.

• Fertilize lightly for better flower production.

• Remove spent blooms to prolong flowering.

Because the plant is native to warm regions, it is primarily grown as an annual in cooler climates. In milder climates, it can sometimes overwinter, but frost protection is essential.

An elegant addition to the ornamental garden

In the garden, Trachelium 'Lake Michigan Violet' creates a modern and refined look. It combines beautifully with silver-leaved plants, ornamental grasses, and purple- or white-flowering varieties such as Salvia, Gaura, Verbena, and Echinacea. Thanks to its airy umbels, Trachelium forms a perfect transition plant between coarse-textured perennials and delicate border plants.

In addition, Trachelium is an excellent bee and butterfly plant. Its numerous small flowers are rich in nectar and attract pollinators, promoting biodiversity in the garden.

Favorite in bouquets and flower arrangements

One of the greatest advantages of 'Lake Michigan Violet' is its value as a cut flower. The sturdy stems, full umbels, and intense color make this cultivar a favorite with florists worldwide. In bouquets, Trachelium is often used as a filler, but thanks to its striking structure and color, it can also be a subtle eye-catcher on its own.

Benefits for cut flower cultivation:

• Long vase life

• Strong stems that require little support

• Compact, uniform screens

• Deep, stable color

• Combines excellently with roses, chrysanthemums, lisianthus and seasonal flowers

Why choose Trachelium caeruleum 'Lake Michigan Violet'?

This elegant and reliable plant offers a unique combination of color, form, and ease of care. Whether you're a garden enthusiast looking for a modern border plant or a professional grower wanting to produce high-quality cut flowers, 'Lake Michigan Violet' offers an excellent balance of aesthetics and quality. It adds depth to the garden, attracts pollinators, and produces high-quality flowers perfect for bouquets and arrangements.