Green Italian ruscus

Green · Asparagaceae

Italian ruscus

Ruscus hypoglossum

Also known as Ruscus

Long, glossy sprays prized for their graceful lines and a vase life that can reach weeks.

Colour: Green

Associated with steadfastness in modern florist use.

Use in a bouquet All flowers
Peak season
Year-round
Vase life
14–21 days
Birth month
—
Colours
2

What the Italian ruscus means

Italian ruscus is a Mediterranean evergreen and a close relative of butcher's broom, whose stiff, spiny stems were reportedly bundled to scrub butchers' blocks. It has no meaning in the Victorian flower dictionaries, and florists value it more for its arching lines and long vase life than for symbolism. Where modern guides give it a meaning, it is usually steadfastness or endurance, a reading of its staying power. It is a staple of wedding garlands and table runners because it holds up so well out of water.

Flower meanings come mostly from Victorian floriography, and they vary between books, eras, and cultures.

Often sent for

  • Anniversary
  • Sympathy
  • Thank you
  • Just because

By colour

  • Green Associated with steadfastness in modern florist use.
  • Deep green Often read as endurance.

Keeping it fresh

Available year-round from growers.

  1. 1 Recut stems and remove any leaves below the waterline.
  2. 2 Change the water every few days; ruscus is among the longest-lasting greens.
  3. 3 Mist garlands and table runners to keep them fresh out of water.

Pet safety

  • cats Not listed
  • dogs Not listed
  • horses Not listed

Not listed in the ASPCA plant database. If a pet eats any, call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.

“Not listed” means the ASPCA has no entry for this plant — not that it is safe. Keep it out of reach.

Source: ASPCA toxic and non-toxic plants. If a pet eats any plant, call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.

Did you know

Ruscus leaves are really flattened stems called cladodes, which is why its tiny flowers, and later its berries, grow from the middle of each one.

Pairs well with

Make your own Italian ruscus bouquet

Pick a vase, add a card, and share the link — no delivery van, no wilting.

Open Flower Studio