Mixed Strawflowers Helichrysum Flower Seeds-Everlasting Daisy

This mixed strawflower blend is selected for uniform growth and uniform flowering, so it's ideal for flower arrangements both fresh and dried. Sultane strawflower seeds produce a bright and festive looking range of flowers in copper-red, orange, yellow, pink, salmon, and white. The stems are tall and straight, and perfect for cutting. As dried flowers, they keep their colour and crisp nature better than most. In the garden, strawflowers are highly attractive to wild and domestic bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and other beneficial insects. Sultane grows to about 90-100cm (36-40") tall. To dry strawflowers, simply gather them in small bunches and hang upside down indoors in an airy room away from direct sunlight. Once dry, these will last for months.

• Uniform flowering
• Tall and straight
• Bright colours
• Attracts beneficials
• Excellent for dried flower
Latin:Xerochrysum bracteatum (also widely listed as Helichrysum bracteautum and even Bracteantha bracteata).
Family: Asteraceae
Difficulty: Easy
Season & Zone
Exposure: Full sun
Zone: 2-10

Here are some common methods of consuming Helichrysum Flower:
Flower Tea: Dry the petals of Helichrysum Flower and steep them in hot water to make a floral tea. This tea is known for its aromatic fragrance and delicate taste, providing a soothing and enjoyable beverage.

Salad: Wash and chop the leaves of Helichrysum Flower, then add them to salads. The leaves have a refreshing texture and a subtle bitter flavor, adding a unique taste to the salad.

Stir-frying: Stir-fry the leaves of Helichrysum Flower along with other vegetables. This cooking method helps retain the nutritional content and distinct flavor of the chrysanthemum, bringing a fresh element to the dish.

Baked Goods and Pastries: Add crushed Helichrysum Flower petals to cookie, cake, or pastry recipes. This imparts a sweet floral aroma to the baked goods and adds visual appeal.

Here's the general way to grow Helichrysum flower seeds:
Soil preparation: Choose a well-drained soil that can be grown in a flower bed or pot. Use soil rich in organic matter and add well-rotted compost or leaf mold to improve soil texture and nutrient content.

Sowing: Spread Helichrysum seeds evenly over the soil surface, compacting the seeds slightly to ensure contact with the soil. Then lightly cover with a thin layer of soil (about 0.5 cm).

Watering: Water lightly with a spray bottle or fine pitcher, keeping the soil moist but not too wet. Avoid overwatering during seed germination as this can cause seed rot.

Light: Place the seeds in full sun, making sure to get at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. Helichrysum loves sunlight, so full sun helps the plant grow and bloom.

Temperature: Helichrysum adapts to warmer climates, with an ideal planting temperature of 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. Maintaining a stable temperature in the planting environment aids in the germination of seeds and healthy growth of seedlings.

Care and Fertilization: Keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering. When the seedlings appear, apply an appropriate amount of comprehensive organic fertilizer to provide the nutrients the plants need.

Transplanting: When Helichrysum seedlings have grown to the appropriate size, they can be transplanted to a chosen location in the garden. Make sure to maintain proper plant spacing so that the plants can grow adequately.

Pruning and management: Regular pruning of Helichrysum plants helps stimulate new growth and flower production. Also, keep the plant tidy and healthy by removing any yellowed or damaged leaves and flowers.