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helichrysum orientale

Helichrysum orientale, sometimes known as the Oriental Everlasting, is a truly striking plant with silvery foliage and papery, long-lasting yellow flowers. Known for its resilience and ornamental value, Helichrysum orientale has become a favourite option for gardeners across New Zealand seeking drought-tolerant, low-maintenance plants that provide year-round interest. Whether you’re keen to brighten up a border or searching for hardy options for coastal gardens, this unique species is versatile, easy to grow, and offers aesthetic appeal for every outdoor space.

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Helichrysum petiolare (Licorice Plant)

Helichrysum petiolare, commonly known as the Licorice plant, is a popular, evergreen shrub that is often used as a groundcover. It produces long stems that host small and rounded, grey-silver leaves. The leaves are complemented with cream-coloured flowers in summer as it grows to 50 cm tall and 1.5 m wide. Helichrysum petiolare is commonly included in rock and cottage gardens, used in border plantings, maintained in a container, planted around outdoor living areas such as pools and the like, or mass planted as a groundcover on a bank.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Groundcover Plants
Height: 50 cm
Spread: 1.50 m
Flowering time: Summer
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Ground covering, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Pool areas
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Rock
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Helichrysum argyrophyllum

Helichrysum argyrophyllum is a shrub grown for its attractive foliage and pretty flowers. The grey leaves have a velvet coating which give them a very soft appearance. They are held densely on spreading stems, and are complemented with small, yellow flowers through summer as it grows to about 50 cm tall and 1 m wide. Helichrysum argyrophyllum is commonly used as a groundcover, included in a mixed planting, or grown anywhere the unusualness of this plant can be appreciated. It is well suited to planting around outdoor living areas such as pools and can be mass planted on a bank or the like.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Groundcover Plants
Height: 50 cm
Spread: 1.00 m
Flowering time: Summer
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Ground covering, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Pool areas
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Rock
Helichrysum petiolare (Licorice Plant)

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Key Features of Helichrysum orientale

This perennial subshrub typically reaches around 40 centimetres in height and forms neat, bushy mounds. The silver-grey leaves are covered with fine hairs, giving Helichrysum orientale both its distinctive look and excellent drought resistance. In early summer, clusters of illuminating yellow flowers appear, retaining their colour and structure as they dry, meaning you can enjoy their beauty for months.

The tidy shape and striking contrast provided by Helichrysum orientale make it popular for Mediterranean-inspired gardens, gravel gardens, and exposed spots where water conservation is a priority. It’s also a fantastic feature in mixed borders, pot displays, or as an accent in xeriscaping projects.

Growing Helichrysum orientale in New Zealand Gardens

Helichrysum orientale flourishes in full sun and well-draining soils, tolerating coastal winds and hot, dry sites with ease. Like many drought-tolerant plants, it dislikes heavy, soggy soils—consider raising your planting area with extra grit or sand for improved drainage. Once established, this hardy plant requires very little water and is low-fuss in terms of fertilizer and maintenance. Simply trim back faded flower stems in autumn to maintain its compact shape.

This helichrysum species’ robust nature means it’s ideal for challenging New Zealand spots, including rockeries, retaining walls, and exposed coastal gardens. Its silvery foliage pairs beautifully with darker greens and purples, and acts as a stunning foil for other summer perennials.

Companion Plants and Related Varieties

Looking to expand your everlasting or drought-tolerant plant palette? Consider combining Helichrysum orientale with other silvery-foliaged species such as Helichrysum Silver for a cool tone, or create contrast with the vibrant blooms of Helichrysum Red Jewel. For groundcover solutions, Helichrysum retortum and Helichrysum Graeme Patterson both deliver outstanding garden coverage and similar drought-hardy traits.

For those drawn to aromatic plants, Helichrysum italicum (Curry Plant) offers scent as well as visual interest and can be a delightful companion in herb gardens or sensory spaces.

Uses of Helichrysum orientale

The bright yellow, papery flowers of Helichrysum orientale are ideal for picking and drying. Used in floral arrangements and everlasting bouquets, they maintain their colour for months, making them popular for craft projects, wedding decor, and gifts. In borders and containers, this plant brings contrast and seasonal cheer, while its tough constitution helps stabilise banks and slopes.

Buy Helichrysum orientale in New Zealand

Helichrysum orientale is an excellent choice for New Zealand gardeners seeking a drought-tolerant, beautiful, and easy-care perennial. Browse our selection of everlastings and related Helichrysum Silver, Helichrysum Red Jewel, Helichrysum retortum, and Helichrysum Graeme Patterson to find the perfect additions for your garden. Embrace the beauty and resilience of helichrysum species for structure, impact, and low-maintenance charm all year round.


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