Immortal Flower
xeranthemum inapertum
Also known as: ["Everlasting Flower","Paper Daisy"]
Overview
A perennial flowering plant known for its papery, long-lasting blooms that retain color even when dried.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","disease resistant","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Xeranthemum |
| Botanical Name: | Xeranthemum inapertum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- 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. Avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate. Remove only spent flowers and stray stems unless significant shaping is needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust to partial shade in extreme summer heat to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moved from shade. Protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense summer sun; avoid placing near large windows that may overheat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid overwatering in heavy soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C). Tolerates mild heat but may struggle below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; protect from frost; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before flowering to encourage blooms.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting just below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light. Protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting soil.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible; avoid disturbing cuttings until roots are established.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers by cutting just above a leaf node. Trim leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or damaged growth; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose a pot with drainage holes; use fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the root zone; ensure excess water drains away; reduce frequency in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
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 to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or stunted growth in cold; wilting or leaf drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or death, especially in poorly drained soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid watering during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, or premature flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity with misting; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicXeranthemum inapertum is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce known compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicXeranthemum inapertum is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce known compounds that are harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicXeranthemum inapertum is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. The plant is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I dry Xeranthemum inapertum flowers?
A: Hang the flowers upside down in a dry, dark place for several weeks until they are fully dried.
Q: Is Xeranthemum inapertum pet-friendly?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require much water?
A: No, it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil with minimal watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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