Trachelium caeruleum 'Lake Michigan White' – Beautiful white umbel flower with an elegant appearance

Trachelium caeruleum 'Lake Michigan White' is a strikingly graceful plant known for its pure white, compact umbels and sturdy, straight stems. This cultivar, part of the high-quality Lake Michigan series, is beloved by both professional cut flower growers and garden enthusiasts. Thanks to its refined, bright color, airy texture, and excellent vase life, this Trachelium makes a valuable addition to gardens, borders, and flower arrangements.

With its modern look and versatility, 'Lake Michigan White' is a perfect choice for anyone looking for an elegant, reliable, and productive bloomer.

Characteristics of Trachelium 'Lake Michigan White'

Trachelium caeruleum is originally a Mediterranean plant, native to regions with warm, sunny summers and well-drained soil. The 'Lake Michigan White' variety was developed to meet the demands of the professional market: uniform growth, strong stems, and compact, abundant clusters of small flowers.

Key Features:

• Botanical name: Trachelium caeruleum

• Cultivar: 'Lake Michigan White'

• Color: Pure white

• Height: 70–90 cm

• Flowering: Summer to early autumn

• Use: Cut flower, border plant, container plant, bee plant

The umbels consist of thousands of tiny tubular flowers that together form an airy, woolly structure. The bright white color adds lightness and freshness to both the garden and floral arrangements.

Location and care

Trachelium caeruleum 'Lake Michigan White' thrives in a sunny location with well-drained, fertile soil. It prefers warmth and grows best in sheltered spots. Although it can tolerate some drought, it benefits from regular watering—without allowing the soil to become soggy.

Care tips for healthy growth and abundant flowering:

• Plant in a sunny to lightly shaded location.

• Provide airy, humus-rich soil.

• Water regularly, especially during warm periods.

• Fertilize lightly for better flower production.

• Remove spent blooms to encourage repeat flowering.

In cooler climates, Trachelium is usually grown as an annual, but in milder winters the plant can sometimes overwinter if well protected from frost.

Application in the garden

In the ornamental garden, 'Lake Michigan White' brings a fresh, modern look. The pure white umbels contrast beautifully with dark foliage and combine beautifully with pastel shades or purple and blue flowers. Its airy structure adds lightness and movement to borders.

Beautiful combinations include:

• Salvia nemorosa

• Verbena bonariensis

• Gaura lindheimeri

• Echinacea

• Ornamental grasses such as Pennisetum and Stipa

In addition, Trachelium attracts many pollinators, including bees and butterflies. The small, disc-shaped flowers contain nectar that attracts these insects, making the plant a healthy and vibrant garden.

Ideal for cut flower arrangements

'Lake Michigan White' is an absolute favorite for florists and floral designers. Its sturdy stems, compact umbels, and pure white color make it exceptionally versatile. It's often used as a filler, but thanks to its unique texture, it can also serve as a subtle focal point in modern bouquets, bridal arrangements, and stylish floral creations.

Benefits for cut flower cultivation:

• Long vase life (up to two weeks)

• Uniform, compact screens

• Sturdy stems that require little support

• Neutral color that goes with everything

• Ideal for bridal work due to its elegant, white appearance

Why choose Trachelium 'Lake Michigan White'?

Anyone looking for a stylish, durable, and versatile plant will find a perfect match in 'Lake Michigan White'. This cultivar brings tranquility and refinement to the garden, attracts beneficial insects, and produces beautiful, professional-quality cut flowers. It's easy to grow, reliable, and exceptionally decorative—both in borders and bouquets.