Ruby Cluster Everlasting Helichrysum amorginum Ruby Cluster = 'Blorub' (PBR)
ABOUT
The Helichrysum amorginum Ruby Cluster, commonly known as the Ruby Cluster Everlasting Flower, features a vibrant array of eye-catching attributes that make it a notable presence in any garden or floral arrangement. The plant boasts a dense and lush foliage in a silvery-green hue, forming a fine and elegant backdrop for its most striking feature: the flowers. The flowers of the Ruby Cluster Everlasting Flower are particularly remarkable for their color and form. They appear as compact clusters of small, papery blooms that exhibit a deep, ruby-red shade. These flower clusters exude an almost jewel-like quality, radiating a richness of color that can enliven any space. The blooms have a textural aspect as well, with the tiny petals overlapping each other in a fashion reminiscent of the scales on a reptile, offering a unique visual and tactile experience. Accentuating these vivid red blooms, the plant may also display button-like central disks that contribute an additional dimension of interest to the flower heads. The combination of the soft, silver-green leaves and the intense red flowers creates a contrast that is both elegant and dramatic. The overall appearance of the Ruby Cluster Everlasting Flower is one of durability and resilience, with the plant presenting a robust character despite its delicate-looking blooms. The flowers, true to their name, have a quality of endurance, often retaining their color and form for an extended period, even after being cut or dried. This characteristic makes the Ruby Cluster Everlasting Flower a favorite not just in gardens, but also in floral crafts and dried flower arrangements, offering beauty that persists beyond the usual lifespan of a blossom.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Ruby Cluster Everlasting, Ruby Cluster Strawflower
Common names
Helichrysum amorginum Ruby Cluster = 'Blorub' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
The Helichrysum amorginum Ruby Cluster, known as the 'Ruby Cluster', is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to humans. However, like many plants, it is not intended for ingestion. There is limited information on specific toxicity and symptoms of poisoning due to ingesting this plant in humans, as it is generally not considered harmful. However, as a precaution, it is advisable not to eat any part of the plant, and if ingested, to monitor for any adverse reactions and seek medical advice if concerns arise.
To pets
The Helichrysum amorginum Ruby Cluster, commonly called the 'Ruby Cluster', is not typically considered a toxic plant to pets. There is little information indicating that it presents a significant risk of poisoning if pets were to ingest it. Nonetheless, it is always best to prevent pets from consuming plants not intended for their diet to avoid any potential gastrointestinal upset or unexpected reactions. If a pet consumes parts of the plant and exhibits unusual symptoms, it is best to consult with a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Grey-green
Flower color
Ruby-red
Height
1-2 feet (30-60cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8-11
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of 'Blorub' are known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, enhancing pollination in the garden.
- Drought Tolerance: This plant has excellent drought resistance once established, making it ideal for water-wise gardens or dry climate conditions.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal care and can thrive without frequent watering or fertilization, making it great for low-maintenance landscaping.
- Decorative Use: The vibrant flowers and silvery foliage add aesthetic appeal to gardens, borders, and containers.
- Long Blooming Period: The plant typically enjoys a long flowering season, providing color and interest for an extended period.
- Deer Resistance: 'Blorub' is known to be relatively resistant to deer, reducing the likelihood of damage in areas where deer are common.
- Sun Tolerance: It is well-suited to full sun conditions, thriving in bright locations with plenty of sunlight.
- Soil Adaptability: The plant can adapt to a range of soil types, although it prefers well-drained soils.
- Hardy Nature: It is considered to be hardy in appropriate climate zones, capable of withstanding typical weather conditions without significant protection.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Helichrysum amorginum Ruby Cluster can be used in natural dye production, with the flowers offering a range of colors depending on the mordant used.
- The dried flowers are sometimes incorporated into potpourri mixes for a long-lasting fragrance and colorful appearance.
- This plant can be used in the creation of floral waters or hydrosols which are often used in natural cosmetics and aromatherapy.
- Fresh or dried floral arrangements may benefit from the inclusion of Helichrysum amorginum Ruby Cluster due to their vibrant color and form.
- It can act as a companion plant in gardens, possibly deterring certain pests with its strong scent.
- The plant's natural resilience to dry conditions makes it a suitable choice for xeriscaping, contributing to water conservation efforts.
- Artists may use the fine-textured and colorful foliage and flowers in still-life or botanical studies.
- Its vibrant flowers attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, making it an excellent plant for supporting local biodiversity.
- In photography, the unique structure and coloration of Helichrysum amorginum Ruby Cluster can be a focal point for macro and nature photography.
- Culinary artists can use the petals as an edible garnish for desserts and salads, provided they are grown without toxic pesticides.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Curry Plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Curry Plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Everlasting Love: As a member of the Helichrysum family, commonly known as the "everlasting flower" or "immortelle," Helichrysum amorginum symbolizes enduring love and undying affection due to its long-lasting blossoms that retain their color and shape when dried.
- Resilience: The ability of Helichrysum plants to thrive in harsh, dry conditions lends them to symbolize resilience and the strength to withstand tough challenges.
- Healing: Helichrysum is often associated with healing due to its use in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and restorative properties.
- Protection: In some traditions, it is believed that the Helichrysum flower possesses protective qualities, representing safety and shielding from harm.
- Memory: The name "everlasting" also hints at remembrance; therefore, the Ruby Cluster may symbolize holding onto cherished memories and honoring the past.
WaterThe Ruby Cluster Everlasting (Helichrysum amorginum 'Blorub') should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically equates to once a week during active growth periods. Less frequent watering is required during the dormant winter months, possibly every other week depending on the climate and indoor conditions. When watering, saturate the soil until water runs out of the bottom of the pot, ensuring the roots are evenly moistened. For a potted plant, using about 16-32 ounces of water should suffice each time, depending on the size of the pot. Be careful to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot
LightThe Ruby Cluster Everlasting desires bright, indirect sunlight to thrive optimally. Place it in a location where it can receive plenty of light without being exposed to the harsh midday sun, which may scorch its leaves. A spot near a south or west-facing window with some form of light-filtering sheer curtain would be ideal to provide the necessary brightness without direct exposure
TemperatureThe Ruby Cluster Everlasting prefers temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit for ideal growth. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit and should not be exposed to temperatures below this as it could damage the plant. Avoid placing it in areas with cold drafts or sudden temperature changes to maintain a stable environment conducive for its health
PruningPruning the Ruby Cluster Everlasting encourages bushier growth and prevents legginess. Trim back the stems by a third after the blooming period or in late winter/early spring to promote a new flush of growth. Deadheading spent flowers will also ensure continuous blooming throughout the season. Pruning is typically needed once a year, or as necessary to maintain the desired shape
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor the Licorice plant, a well-draining soil mix with peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0-7.5.
RepottingLicorice plants should be repotted every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their current pot, ensuring fresh soil and room for growth.
Humidity & MistingLicorice plant thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40-70%. Avoid overly dry environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and protect from draughts.
Outdoor
Grow in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
7-11 USDA
Life cycleHelichrysum amorginum Ruby Cluster, commonly known as the Ruby Cluster Everlasting or Immortelle, begins its life cycle with germination, where the seeds sprout in warm conditions, typically in spring. After germination, the seedlings grow rapidly, developing a rosette of leaves and a root system. As the plant enters the vegetative stage, it continues to expand in size and may be pinched back to encourage bushier growth. Flowering occurs in summer to early fall, with the plant producing clusters of small, ruby-red colored, papery flowers that are prized for their longevity. After flowering, if conditions permit, the plant may set seeds, which are then dispersed by wind or other means. Finally, as a perennial, the Ruby Cluster may enter a period of dormancy during colder months, although in some climates it may retain its leaves, before resuming growth in the next season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Helichrysum amorginum Ruby Cluster = 'Blorub' (PBR), commonly known as the Everlasting Flower or Immortelle, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This process generally takes place during late summer. To begin, a grower would typically select a healthy, disease-free stem and cut a segment approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long. The lower leaves are stripped off, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage growth. The prepared cutting is then inserted into a well-draining soil mix, and the pot is placed in a warm area with bright, indirect light. The soil must remain moist, but not waterlogged, to prevent rot. Roots are expected to develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimated to normal conditions before being transplanted to its final location.
