Sand Paper Flower

helichrysum arenarium

Also known as: ["Sand Paper Flower","Golden Everlasting"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Helichrysum Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant with daisy-like flowers and silvery-gray foliage, native to Europe and Asia.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Helichrysum
Botanical Name: Helichrysum arenarium

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or containers in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with tolerance to partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or incorrect soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; avoid direct sun indoors.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings

Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with moderate fertility

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.

Temperature

Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but not frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth in winter.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer

Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering; stop in fall/winter.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of clumps.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (65–75°F/18–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Sharp pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.

Tools

Sharp, clean pruners or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth starts.

Pot Size

One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.

Method

Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out roots; place in slightly larger pot.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; water before repotting; minimize root disturbance.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth and may cause leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.

Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; provide a warm, sheltered location.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop in excessive heat; growth may slow.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Helichrysum arenarium may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, which can impair photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Helichrysum arenarium is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues, which can lead to reduced nutrient uptake and plant vitality.

Leaf spots on Helichrysum arenarium may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and aesthetic damage to the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Helichrysum arenarium due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to plant decline and potential death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Helichrysum arenarium is not considered toxic to cats. The plant lacks harmful substances that would pose a risk to felines upon ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

not typically toxic

While generally safe, monitor pets for any unusual behavior after exposure.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Helichrysum arenarium is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain significant compounds that would cause harm to canines upon ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

not typically toxic

While generally safe, monitor pets for any unusual behavior after exposure.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Helichrysum arenarium contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when consumed in excessive amounts. The plant is generally considered safe for topical use but may lead to adverse effects if ingested improperly.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea stomach discomfort diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if ingested in large quantities

Use only in moderation and consult a healthcare professional before ingestion, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should Helichrysum arenarium be watered?

A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Q: Does Helichrysum arenarium attract pollinators?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Q: Is Helichrysum arenarium suitable for rock gardens?

A: Yes, it thrives in well-drained, rocky soils and is well-suited for rock gardens.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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