Quick read / the essentials on our Eremurus bulbs
The Steppe Lily, or Eremurus , seduces with its spectacular silhouette and architectural shape, which make it an essential plant for high-end cut flowers as well as for structural landscaping. At Floriverse , we put our know-how at the service of professionals with a rigorous selection of bulbs cultivated according to three technical segments: certified organic bulbs , untreated bulbs and premium conventional bulbs . Each of these options makes it possible to adapt the offer to the expectations of the market, whether it is specialized in organic flowers, oriented towards naturalness without regulatory constraints, or anchored in proven conventional models.
As a specialist wholesale supplier of flower bulbs , we support floriculturists in the integration of this high added-value species, thanks to homogeneous batches, controlled logistics and targeted agronomic advice. The morphological characteristics of Eremurus – flower stems up to 3 meters, star-shaped inflorescences, blue-green deciduous foliage – make it a highly sought-after niche product. Its cultivation requires technicality and anticipation, two dimensions at the heart of Floriverse expertise.
As a specialist wholesale supplier of flower bulbs , we offer a wide range of Eremurus selected for their floral quality and hardiness. Our approach aims to make this demanding plant accessible, with packaging adapted to each size of farm. Buying Eremurus bulbs from us means opting for professional service, competitive prices and dedicated support from sowing to harvest.
Whether you're an organic, conventional, or converting producer, Floriverse is your specialist wholesale supplier of flower bulbs for successful Eremurus cultivation in France. Buying Eremurus bulbs from an expert guarantees a successful flower growing season.
Wide range of Eremurus (Steppe Lily) flower bulbs
We offer a wide range of Eremurus flower bulbs , also known as Steppe Lily , for professional floriculturists. Our products cover the most demanding needs with certified organic bulbs for environmentally friendly cultivation, untreated bulbs without post-harvest preservatives, and conventional bulbs from specialist nurseries renowned for their agronomic rigor.
Eremurus cultivation in France: market context
The Eremurus cut flower market in France
The French cut flower market is undergoing a transformation. After a decline in 2022 (-7% in volume), certain segments, such as flowers sold individually, are returning to positive momentum. This context is favoring the integration of Eremurus, a high-end flower, into professional channels.
Eremurus is distinguished by its spectacular flower stems (up to 3 m), its exceptional vase life, and its wide range of colors. These qualities make it a niche flower with high added value , sought after both in high-end bouquets and for sale by the stem .
Organic, untreated or conventional: a strategic segmentation
The organic market is stabilizing, with a loyal but demanding customer base. Organic Eremurus remains a targeted opportunity for certified producers. Conversely, conventional production remains the majority, meeting demand from traditional floral markets. Finally, the untreated category is growing in response to the search for more responsible solutions without certification constraints.
Technical recommendations
To maximize cut flower quality, harvesting should occur when approximately 25% of the flowers are open . This method ensures optimal longevity in the vase and harmonious flowering for the end customer.
Eremurus Bulbs for Sale: Sales Arguments
We offer online and wholesale sales of Eremurus bulbs , grown by specialist growers . Our bulbs are of professional quality , with a decreasing price according to volume and an unbeatable quality-price ratio . The supply is fluid , without complications, and we ensure rapid delivery throughout France , generally within 15 days in season.
Our customers benefit from personalized quotes , responsive service within 48 hours , and dedicated technical support for each crop. Each florist can count on a complete technical itinerary and advice adapted to their situation. Thanks to our specialization in floriculture, we guarantee reliable support to secure your season.
All our Eremurus flower bulbs are available at producer prices , with the option to pre-order to guarantee your varieties. Orders are carefully prepared, ensuring careful delivery that meets professional expectations.
Botanical classification and plant morphology
Eremurus is a genus of plants with the generic scientific name "Eremurus". Several species are recognized, including Eremurus stenophyllus , Eremurus robustus (or robust), Eremurus himalaicus , Eremurus spectabilis (type species of the genus), and Eremurus thiodanthus (endemic to Crimea). Although some older classifications placed it in the Liliaceae family, Eremurus now belongs to the Asphodelaceae family, more precisely to the Asphodeloideae subfamily and the Asphodeleae tribe. It is part of the Asparagales order and the Monocotyledonous class, ranking in the phylum Vascular Plants.
Root structure and reserve organs
This plant is a perennial with a unique root system. Far from being a classic bulb, it has a fleshy, fibrous rootstock , characterized by a central bud from which radiating fleshy roots emerge. This reserve organ, very brittle and shaped like a starfish or an octopus, requires careful handling. The foliage, deciduous and appearing early in spring, is composed of basally arranged, long, thin, strap-shaped leaves. These leaves form a clump at ground level, with a smooth, relatively firm, and slightly curved texture, displaying a blue-green color, a slightly glaucous tint that helps reduce water loss. This foliage remains present until mid-summer, photosynthesizing to feed the rootstock, before turning yellow and drying out completely, marking the entry into dormancy. The plant can reach 1 meter in height at the foliage level.
Floral characteristics and vegetative habit
The flowering of Eremurus is its major asset. It generally occurs from May to July depending on the species and variety. The flowers are small star-shaped florets (1 to 2 cm in diameter), densely grouped on an imposing vertical floral stem called a spike or panicle. Each inflorescence is a unique but spectacular stem, covered with hundreds of small flowers that gradually bloom from the base to the top, thus extending the decorative interest over 4 to 6 weeks depending on climatic conditions and species.
The height of the flower stalks varies greatly depending on the species and cultivars. For Eremurus robustus , the spikes can exceed 1.5 meters, and the main stalk can reach between 1.50 m and 2 m in height in common species, or even up to 2.50 m for some robust varieties. The variety 'Romance' can even reach 3 meters in height at maturity. More compact varieties such as Eremurus stenophyllus measure between 70 cm and 1.30 meters. The general habit of the plant is typically erect or upright. The flower stalks, long and robust, rise vertically, giving the plant a majestic appearance. The basal foliage is erect to slightly arched, but the flower stem remains upright. Flower colors vary, including white, pink, yellow, orange or red-orange. Yellow and white are frequently encountered in professional cultivation. The scent of flowers is generally not very strong, discreet, or even absent.
Natural range and habitat conditions
Native to Eastern Europe (Russia, Ukraine) and temperate Asia, from Turkey to China, Eremurus is particularly present in Central Asia. It is found naturally in a vast arc extending from Turkey to China, including Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, the Caucasus, the cold plains of Central Asia, ancient Persia, the Altai, and some species in Crimea and Asia Minor. Its natural habitat corresponds mainly to areas with a temperate continental to semi-arid climate , characterized by cold and dry winters, hot and relatively dry summers, a high annual temperature amplitude, and low to moderate annual rainfall, typical of steppes and open mountainous areas. Eremurus is often found in low and medium altitude plains or valleys (from 300 m), but can colonize slopes or foothills up to 2,500 meters depending on the species and location. The preferred biotope includes steppes and open meadows with sparse vegetation, rocky slopes, scree, and the edges of open forests.
Pedoclimatic production parameters
Soil requirements and soil preparation
Eremurus is well adapted to regions with high temperature amplitude and poor soils. However, for successful professional cultivation, the type of soil is a determining criterion. The plant prefers light to medium-heavy, well-drained soils , with a proportion of silt, sand or gravel. Stony or calcareous soils are tolerated, but compact or heavy clay soils should be avoided because they retain water, which is fatal for the strain. A filtering soil is imperative . The optimal pH is between 6.5 and 8 , or neutral to slightly alkaline. To ensure optimal drainage, it is strongly recommended to install a 5 cm drainage layer (pozzolan, gravel, small pebbles) at the bottom of the planting hole.
Exposure conditions and protection
Light exposure is also crucial. Eremurus requires full sun exposure for vigorous growth and abundant flowering. A location receiving 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day is optimal, ideally facing south or southwest. Light partial shade is tolerated, but will negatively impact the quality and quantity of the flower stalks. The plant must also be sheltered from strong winds that could damage its tall flower stalks.
Planting calendar and techniques
The ideal planting time in France is in autumn, preferably in October . This allows the fleshy roots to establish themselves before winter. Planting is possible from September to November, or even as late as December or January in regions with mild winters. The recommended planting depth varies, but it is generally advisable to place the stump about 10 to 15 cm below the soil surface to ensure good anchoring. Some sources suggest a shallower depth, 5 to 7 cm above the central bud. For professional cultivation, aiming for 10 to 15 cm of depth with a drainage layer is good practice. The spacing between each plant should be adapted to the mature size of the plant. For larger varieties, allow 60 cm to 1 meter between plants. For group plantings or smaller varieties, a minimum of 30 cm is necessary, but 60 cm is preferable for optimal development.
Crop management and water management
Irrigation control
Despite its steppe origin, Eremurus has moderate but precise water needs during its active growth phase in spring. Weekly watering (about 10 to 15 L/m²) is recommended if the spring is dry, always allowing the soil to dry between waterings to avoid excess moisture, which is fatal to the fleshy roots. During and after flowering, watering should be gradually reduced, then stopped completely in summer and winter , periods during which the plant goes dormant and fears humidity. The soil must remain well-drained all year round.
Fertilization program
In terms of fertilization, Eremurus appreciates enriched but not excessive soil, especially at the start of the cycle. An addition of mature compost (about 3 to 5 kg/m²) is beneficial at planting in autumn. At the beginning of the vegetation (late winter - early spring), a light addition of complete organic fertilizer (about 50 to 70 g/m² of a balanced NPK type such as 4-8-12 or 5-7-10) can be made. A supplementary application of compost on the surface in March-April is often sufficient thereafter. It is crucial to avoid excess nitrogen, which would promote foliage at the expense of flowering and increase the risk of rot. No application is necessary during summer dormancy.
Cold resistance and winter protection
Eremurus is a very hardy plant, able to withstand temperatures down to -20°C . This corresponds to a USDA hardiness zone 6 (-23.3°C to -17.8°C), making it suitable for most French regions. To ensure this hardiness, particularly in the case of late planting (December-January) or harsh winters without snow, it is essential to apply a 5 to 7 cm autumn mulch (dry straw, dead leaves, compost) to protect the roots from the cold and, above all, from stagnant moisture.
Wind protection is also important for tall flower stems. Staking the tallest varieties (minimum 1.8 meters) as soon as the stems appear or installing temporary windbreaks (50-60% porosity nets) in exposed areas are recommended technical measures for professional crops.
Production and multiplication cycle
Vegetative development and longevity
Eremurus is a perennial plant with fleshy roots. Once well established, it can remain in place for many years and form dense clumps after 2 to 3 years . The first flowering occurs after 2 to 3 years of cultivation for plants grown from stump division, and can take 5 to 6 years for plants grown from seed. Longevity in place is important, hence the importance of choosing the location carefully.
Vegetative propagation techniques
Propagation is preferably carried out by division of the stock rather than by sowing for a rapid recovery faithful to the mother plant. Division is carried out after flowering, during the summer or autumn dormancy period, ideally every 3 to 5 years . This involves cutting the tuberous stock, taking care to keep a bud ("eye") and a piece of tuber on each fragment. This technique ensures potential flowering from the second year following division. Sowing is a slower method, requiring 3 to 5 years before obtaining a plant capable of flowering. The seeds are harvested at the end of summer and sown in a cold frame in autumn. The production of bulbils is not a classic method of propagation for this genus.
Varietal selection and cultivar characteristics
Several Eremurus cultivars and selections are used in commercial cultivation, with notable differences in color, height, and flowering time. Among them, Eremurus 'Bungei' (or Stenophyllus) is known for its bright yellow flowers, reaching about 1.5 m in height, with flowering from late May to early June. Eremurus 'White Romance' offers pure white flowers, measuring between 1 m and 1.2 m, flowering from late May to early June. 'Romance' has salmon-pink flowers in tall spikes, with flower stalks reaching up to 3 m. Eremurus himalaicus (and its cultivar 'White Beauty Favourite') is valued for its early white flowering (May–June), reaching a height of about 1.5–2.5 m. The choice of cultivar allows for a variety of color palettes and staggered flowering.
Plant protection and crop maintenance
Main bio-aggressors and preventive measures
Eremurus is relatively unaffected by major diseases and pests under good growing conditions. Its main enemy is excess moisture , which can lead to root and crown rot ( Fusarium, Botrytis, Sclerotinia ), particularly in winter or in poorly drained soil. Impeccable drainage is therefore the most effective preventative measure. In the event of rot, it is essential to remove and destroy affected plants.
Regarding pests, slugs and snails can attack young shoots in spring. Rodents (field mice, voles) may be attracted to the fleshy roots. Slug traps or baits and root protection with netting may be necessary when planting.
Maintenance operations
Routine maintenance is fairly simple. It mainly consists of removing dead or damaged leaves in spring and wilted flower stalks after flowering. Regular weeding around the plants is recommended, especially during growth, maintaining a clean area of about 30 cm around each plant to avoid root competition. Eremurus does not require annual lifting of its stumps; it prefers to remain in place. If moving or dividing is necessary, this should be done in autumn, gently handling brittle roots.
Commercial applications and opportunities
Use in landscaping
Eremurus fits remarkably well into professional landscaping. Its imposing height (1 to 2 meters on average) makes it an ideal structuring element in the center or at the back of flowerbeds, along hedges, or in rockeries. For optimal visual impact, it is recommended to plant in groups of at least 3 to 4 specimens . It should not be put in competition with plants that are too greedy or invasive. Successful associations can be made with ornamental grasses (Stipa tenuissima, Festuca glauca), perennial geraniums (Geranium x cantabrigiense), Nepeta (Nepeta faassenii), Alchemilla (Alchemilla mollis), lavender, or Yarrow, which appreciate similar conditions (sun, drained soil) and hide the base of the Eremurus once its foliage dries in summer. Avoid plants with very dense root systems (daylilies, peonies). Eremurus has a good naturalization capacity under optimal conditions (drained soil, full sun), forming extensive clumps over time. Its growth cycle, where the foliage disappears in summer, is a characteristic to integrate into the design of clumps to ensure visual continuity.
Relevance to public spaces
For communities and large public spaces, Eremurus is particularly relevant. It requires little maintenance once established, tolerating poor soils and summer drought, which reduces watering and labor requirements. Its spectacular and long-lasting flowering (3 to 6 weeks) offers a significant visual impact. In addition, its flowering attracts pollinating insects such as bees and butterflies, thus contributing to biodiversity.
Production of cut flowers
Eremurus is also very popular as a cut flower. The length of its flower stems ( 90 cm to more than 2 m depending on the species/cultivar) allows for imposing compositions. The stems are strong and straight, ensuring good vase life for 7 to 10 days if cut at the right stage (beginning of the basal florets). Its discreet or absent fragrance is an asset in floristry. The main limitation is the fragility of the base of the stem which requires careful handling.
Yields and economic parameters
Productivity per unit area
In professional cultivation, the average yield is about a single flower stem per mature bulb in the first year. On well-established clumps (after 2-3 years), up to 1 to 3 stems can be obtained per mature planting. In terms of density, a planting of 5 to 8 bulbs per m² allows you to expect 5 to 8 flower stems in the first year, and up to 8 to 10 stems per m² on older, well-maintained plants. Yield depends heavily on the quality of the soil (light, rich, drained) and exposure (full sun, sheltered from the wind).
Specialized cultural adaptations
Pot cultivation is possible but requires a large, deep container ( 40-50 cm ) with a well-draining substrate (60% potting soil, 30% sand/perlite, 10% gravel) and very controlled watering, avoiding any water stagnation. Cultivation under unheated cover is possible, with essential ventilation and protection against the cold if temperatures drop significantly. Eremurus does not seem particularly suited to forcing for off-season flowering, as there is no extensive literature on this practice. Its vernalization requirements (a period of cold, humid conditions between 1°C and 5°C for about 3 months) are natural and essential to induce flowering the following year.
Quality indicators and cultural diagnosis
To assess plant health, monitor foliage vigor (bright green), flower stalk straightness, and spike development. Premature yellowing or wilting may indicate water stress or a drainage problem. Slowed growth or poor flowering may signal a nutrient deficiency.
Crop rotation is important. It is recommended to avoid planting Eremurus after crops that maintain persistent moisture (root vegetables, wet meadows) or that are very covering/competitive. Rotations with other bulbs susceptible to the same root pathogens should also be avoided. An interval of 4 to 5 years is recommended before replanting Eremurus on the same plot. Preceding with a short fallow or cereal crops is preferable.
In case of prolonged drought, adapting irrigation (deep but spaced out, 15-20L/m² every 15 days) and using a thick mineral mulch or water-retaining polymers can help. In case of very harsh winters, reinforce the mulch (10-15 cm), use wintering fleeces or create raised planting mounds to ensure drainage against frost.
Finally, Eremurus does not present any notable toxicity for humans or livestock according to available sources and is not classified as a protected species in France.
Harvesting techniques and post-harvest conservation
Harvesting of propagation organs
The bulbs (rhizomes) are harvested in late summer to early autumn ( August-September ), when the foliage has completely yellowed and disappeared, marking the entry into dormancy. The roots are delicate and brittle, requiring careful handling when digging them up. For marketing, the rhizomes should generally be at least 15 to 20 cm wide. After cleaning and drying in the open air for 1 to 2 days, the bulbs are stored in a dry, airy and well-ventilated place, ideally between 15 and 18 °C , with an ambient humidity of 70-75% to prevent drying out. Storage is possible until autumn planting.
Seed conservation
The seeds are harvested at the end of summer as soon as the capsules turn brown. They must be dried and then stored in a paper bag, ideally at 4-5°C , with low humidity. Their optimal storage life is 1 to 2 years for good germination.
To summarize: Our Eremurus Bulbs
Eremurus, a majestic perennial plant with deciduous foliage and spectacular flower stems, is a sure bet for floriculturists wishing to distinguish themselves with an exceptional flower. Thanks to a well-managed culture – planting in autumn, full sun exposure, perfect drainage – Eremurus deploys all its vigor and longevity. Its extended flowering cycle and its excellent vase life make it a star of the professional circuits. At Floriverse , we offer you privileged access to this species thanks to our role as a specialist wholesale supplier of flower bulbs , with an optimized stock for each market segment.
Buying Eremurus bulbs from Floriverse means benefiting from a carefully selected production network, attractive wholesale prices, and personalized advice tailored to your soil and climate situation. Each bulb is carefully handled and shipped to ensure optimal quality upon receipt. Our customers appreciate the clarity of our quotes, the responsiveness of our customer service, and above all, our technical expertise on this specific species.
Whether you're growing in the ground, in flowerbeds, or as cut flowers under cover, Floriverse is your trusted wholesaler and specialist in flower bulbs . Our Eremurus bulbs are available in calibrated sizes, with fast delivery throughout France. Buying Eremurus bulbs from us means choosing performance, consistency, and peace of mind for your entire growing season.
Trust Floriverse , your specialist wholesale supplier of flower bulbs , to secure your Eremurus supplies. Whether you want to enhance an existing plot or diversify your offering, buying Eremurus bulbs is a winning strategy.
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