Strawflower

helichrysum stoechas

Also known as: ["Everlasting flower","Immortelle"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Helichrysum Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant known for its papery, long-lasting flowers that retain their color even when dried.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or containers in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Indoor Plant Lovers Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer heat by providing partial shade.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in a spot with unobstructed light.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid shaded areas.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; use raised beds for better drainage

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures (65–75°F / 18–24°C); tolerates mild heat but avoid frost.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize sparingly to avoid salt buildup; apply after watering to prevent root burn; stop in fall.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

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

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

Environment

Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity, and indirect light

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development

Timeline

Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut back stems by one-third to one-half; remove dead or crossing branches

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune at the right time; remove dead growth; shape the plant

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins

Pot Size

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

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly

Suggestions

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

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; 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; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

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

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; 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, leaf drop, or browning edges in cold; stunted growth or leaf scorch in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; frost can kill the plant.

Solution: Move potted plants indoors before frost; use frost cloth for outdoor plants; ensure good drainage to prevent cold soil.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf burn, and reduced flowering.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Helichrysum stoechas may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Helichrysum stoechas can result from water stress, either due to under or overwatering, or root damage, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Helichrysum stoechas are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic capacity and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Helichrysum stoechas due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, causing decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Helichrysum stoechas is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

No specific precautions are necessary for cats around this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Helichrysum stoechas is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

No specific precautions are necessary for dogs around this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Helichrysum stoechas is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is commonly used in herbal remedies and cosmetics without reported adverse effects.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Handle with care as with any plant, but no specific precautions are necessary for typical use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I dry Helichrysum stoechas flowers?

A: Hang the flowers upside down in a dark, dry place with good air circulation.

Q: Is Helichrysum stoechas pet-friendly?

A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Does Helichrysum stoechas attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","indoor plant lovers","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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