Helichrysum monstrosum
Strawflower
Helichrysum can be annuals or perennials, growing to a height of 60–90 cm. They are grown as ornamental plants, and for dried flowers. When cut young and dried, the open flowers and stalks preserve their colour and shape for long periods. Helichrysum monstrosum grows on tall, straight stems about 3 feet high, are perfect for drying. Butterflies love them! Very easy to grow, and a good introduction to gardening for children.
Contributed by @gracehong
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Full sun
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Very little water
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Frost Hardy: 23F (-5°C)
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Light and free draining
Common name
Strawflower
Latin name
Helichrysum monstrosum
type
Perennial
family
Asteraceae
ph
7.0 - 8.5 Acid - Neutral
Plant & bloom calendar
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Best time to plant
full grown dimensions
Helichrysum monstrosum
Helichrysum can be annuals or perennials, growing to a height of 60–90 cm. They are grown as ornamental plants, and for dried flowers. When cut young and dried, the open flowers and stalks preserve their colour and shape for long periods. Helichrysum monstrosum grows on tall, straight stems about 3 feet high, are perfect for drying. Butterflies love them! Very easy to grow, and a good introduction to gardening for children.
Planting
From Early Spring TO Early Spring
Plant in well-drained, poor to moderately fertile, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun. It grows well if planted in mixed baskets and tubs to provide a light colour, and also some volume and texture. Protect from winter wet and cold dry winds
Propagation
From Early Spring TO Early Spring
Propagate by rooting semi-hardwood cuttings of shrubby species in summer and overwinter in frost-free conditions. Helichrysum can also be grown from seed. Plant seedlings indoors in early spring, or sow seeds on the surface of soil after the last frost of spring. Seed germination occurs from one to three weeks after planting. Seeds germinate best at a temperature of 18 to 23 degrees Centigrade.