Helichrysum

Licorice Plants And Helichrysum Petiolare – Best In NZ!

Adding colourful shrubs to your garden delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They are visual plants that add impact to a space.
• They attract birds and bees.
• Street appeal can be greatly enhanced.
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature.
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come.

We have the largest variety of Helichrysum plants, including Italian Strawflower, and we have the right one for your space. These have been selected to thrive in NZ’s climate. We grow and stock only the highest quality plants, sourcing them locally, and from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy Helichrysum plants, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Helichrysum Questions

1. Can I grow Helichrysum?

Helichrysum is easy to grow in New Zealand and here are some tips:

• Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. They can tolerate some shade, but they will flower best in full sun.
• Prepare the soil by adding compost or other organic matter. This will help to improve drainage and fertility.
• Plant Helichrysum in spring or autumn and water the plants regularly, especially during hot weather.
• Feed Helichrysum plants every 2-3 months during the growing season with a balanced fertiliser.
• Mulch around the plants with compost or other organic matter to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

2. Where is the best place to plant Helichrysum?

The best place to plant Helichrysum is in a sunny spot with a well-drained soil. They can tolerate some shade, but they will flower best in full sun. The soil should be well-drained, as Helichrysum plants do not like to sit in water.

3. What is the common name for Helichrysum plant?

The common name for the Helichrysum plant is strawflower. Other common names include immortelle, everlasting, and curry plant. The name "strawflower" comes from the fact that the dried flowers of Helichrysum plants retain their colour and shape for many years. Strawflowers are often used in dried flower arrangements and crafts.

The name "immortelle" comes from the Latin word for "immortal." This name is given to Helichrysum plants because their flowers last for so long. The name "everlasting" is another reference to the long-lasting nature of Helichrysum flowers. The name "curry plant" is given to some species of Helichrysum because their leaves have a curry-like scent. These species of Helichrysum are sometimes used in cooking.

4. Is Helichrysum a perennial or annual?

Helichrysum can be either a perennial or an annual, depending on the species. Some species of Helichrysum are hardy and can survive for many years, while other species are more tender and will only last for one growing season.

5. Where is Helichrysum native to?

Helichrysum, a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, is native to a wide range of regions, primarily in the Southern Hemisphere. The genus includes over 600 species, with a notable concentration in Africa, particularly South Africa and Madagascar. Other regions where Helichrysum species are native include Australia, Eurasia, and Australasia.

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the distribution of Helichrysum species by region:

• Africa: With over 244 species, Africa is home to the largest diversity of Helichrysum plants. South Africa is particularly rich in Helichrysum species, with over 150 species found there. Madagascar is also an important center of Helichrysum diversity, with over 90 species found on the island.
• Australia: Australia is home to over 50 species of Helichrysum, primarily found in the southern and eastern regions of the continent. These species are adapted to a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, heathlands, and coastal areas.
• Eurasia: Eurasia is home to over 100 species of Helichrysum, with the genus being particularly well-represented in the Mediterranean region. These species are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and rocky areas.
• Australasia: Australasia is home to over 100 species of Helichrysum, primarily found in New Zealand and New Guinea. These species are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and mountainous areas.

Helichrysum species are known for their attractive flowers and silvery-white leaves, making them popular ornamental plants around the world. Some species, such as Helichrysum italicum (curry plant), are also used for culinary purposes.

5. What is Helichrysum plant used for?

Helichrysum is a diverse genus of flowering plants and has a surprisingly large range of uses.

Traditional medicinal uses:

• Helichrysum, particularly the Italian strawflower (Helichrysum italicum), has been traditionally used for centuries to promote wound healing, reduce scarring, and soothe burns. This is largely attributed to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Various species of Helichrysum have been used to address inflammation related to respiratory issues like allergies and colds, as well as muscle and joint pain.
• Some cultures use Helichrysum to alleviate digestive issues like indigestion and stomach ulcers.
• Helichrysum essential oil is often used topically to treat various skin concerns like acne, eczema, and dermatitis. Its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties are believed to be beneficial.

Other uses:

• The pleasant, sweet-honey-like scent of Helichrysum, particularly the essential oil, is popular in aromatherapy. It's believed to reduce stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation.
• While not widely used in mainstream cooking, the leaves of some Helichrysum species, like the curry plant (Helichrysum italicum), have a strong curry-like aroma and can be used sparingly in dishes for a unique flavor.
• The vibrant blooms of certain Helichrysum species, like the everlasting (Helichrysum bracteatum), retain their colour and shape exceptionally well when dried, making them popular choices for crafting wreaths, potpourri, and other decorative arrangements.
• Many Helichrysum varieties with their diverse flower forms and colors are valued as ornamental plants for gardens and containers.

Important note: While Helichrysum has a long history of traditional uses, it's important to remember that scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for various health conditions is still limited. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using Helichrysum for any medicinal purposes.

6. Can you grow Helichrysum from cuttings?

Propagating Helichrysum from cuttings is a fantastic, cost-effective way to expand your plant collection.

• Spring and early summer are ideal times for taking cuttings, as the plants are actively growing and have sufficient energy to root. Avoid taking cuttings during periods of extreme heat or drought.
• Select healthy, non-flowering stems that are about 100-150 mm long. Look for stems that are firm but not woody. Avoid branches with any signs of disease or pests.
• Remove the bottom leaves from the cutting, leaving only a few pairs of leaves at the top. This will minimize water loss and encourage rooting.
• Dip the base of the cutting in rooting hormone powder.
• You can root Helichrysum cuttings in various mediums, including:
  • Seed starting mix: A lightweight, well-draining mix is ideal.
  • Perlite: Provides good drainage and aeration.
  • Sand and potting mix: A 50/50 mix offers good drainage and moisture retention.
• Fill a small pot with your chosen rooting medium and moisten it thoroughly.
• Make a hole in the centre of the medium and insert the cutting, gently firming the soil around it.
• Water the cutting lightly to settle the soil.
• Place the pot in a bright, indirect light location. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
• Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
• Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or dome to maintain humidity.
• Mist the leaves occasionally, especially if the air is dry.
• After a few weeks, you should see new growth developing. Once the roots are well-established (usually 4-6 weeks), gradually remove the plastic covering and acclimate the cuttings to the surrounding humidity.
• Once hardened off, transplant the rooted cuttings into individual pots or your desired garden location.

7. What is the lifespan of Helichrysum?

There are over 600 species of Helichrysum, and their lifespans can vary significantly. Some, like the Italian strawflower (Helichrysum italicum), are annuals, completing their entire life cycle within a single year. Others, like the curry plant (Helichrysum italicum) and many ornamental varieties, are perennials, returning year after year for several years, sometimes even decades.

8. Does Helichrysum like sun or shade?

Most Helichrysum species thrive in full sun! Sunshine is essential for these plants to produce their vibrant blooms, maintain their compact growth habit, and develop their characteristic silvery foliage. Ample sunlight also helps boost their resistance to pests and diseases.