How to Grow Strawflower Plants

Annual, Helichrysum Bracteatum

Are Strawflowers a flower or a herb? You make the call. But, for the record, let's make sure you know that Strawflowers are classified as a herb. Best of all, they are easy to grow.

Natives of Australia, Strawflowers grow up to three feet tall. These "Aussies" have big blooms that come in yellow, orange, red, rose, white, and pink. They look good in the flower bed, in vases, corsages, bouquets, and more. Once they begin to bloom in mid summer, they will reward you with bursts of color right up to frost. With a little luck, they may survive the first light frost.

Strawflowers, or Helichrysum, are "everlasting" flowers, as they can be dried and will last a long time. They make excellent winter bouquets and are popular with crafters.

Plant Height: 2' - 3'

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Plant Propagation:

Strawflower are grown from seed. Strawflower seeds can be directly seeded into your flower garden or started indoors for transplanting later. If planting outdoors, sow them just a few days before the last frost date for your area.

Sow Strawflower seeds, covering them lightly with soil. Space seeds or seedlings 18" apart to give these big plants ample room to grow.

Days to Germination: 7 - 10

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How to Grow Strawflower Plants:

Strawflower plants are easy to grow. They prefer full sun to partial shade. They will do well in poor to average soils, and tolerate heat and drought conditions. Water them during dry periods, once or twice per week. Add a general purpose fertilizer once or twice a season for maximum plant growth, and to promote big blooms.

Once your Strawflower are established, they will grow well. They will bloom from mid-summer right up to frost. They may survive light frosts.

Flowers Bloom: Summer

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Insect and Disease:

Strawflower are fairly resistant to insects and disease. If insect or disease problems occur, treat early with organic or chemical insect repellents and fungicide.

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Drying:

Cut Strawflowers just before full bloom. Hang upside down to dry in a dry, well ventilated area.

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