Licorice Plant Helichrysum petiolare 'Limelight'
ABOUT
Helichrysum petiolare 'Limelight', commonly known as the licorice plant, is noted for its distinctive foliage. The plant boasts rounded leaves that have a velvety texture and are brightly colored in shades of lime green to chartreuse. The leaves typically have slightly ruffled edges which add to their ornamental appeal. This colorful foliage makes it a popular choice for adding contrast and flair to garden beds and containers. The plant's stems are semi-woody and trail or spread gracefully. If the licorice plant blooms, which is not its primary attraction, it produces small, insignificant flowers that are usually not the main focal point. The overall visual impact of the plant comes from its vibrant, eye-catching leaves that can brighten up any garden space.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Licorice Plant, Limelight Licorice Plant, Trailing Licorice, Silver Bush.
Common names
Helichrysum petiolare 'Limelight'.
ToxicityTo humans
Helichrysum petiolare 'Limelight', commonly known as licorice plant, is not considered toxic to humans. This plant does not have a history of causing serious poisoning or adverse reactions in people if touched or accidentally ingested in small amounts. However, as with any plant, individual allergic reactions are possible, and it is generally advised to avoid ingesting plants that are not specifically grown for consumption.
To pets
Licorice plant is not known to be toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. There have been no reported cases of significant poisoning from pets ingesting this plant. Although it is not considered poisonous, it is always best to prevent pets from chewing on or eating non-food plants, as they could cause mild stomach upset or an allergic reaction in some animals.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Lime-green
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Helichrysum petiolare 'Limelight', commonly known as Licorice Plant, has attractive lime-green foliage that adds a splash of color to garden borders, containers, and hanging baskets.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, the Licorice Plant is relatively drought-resistant, making it suitable for xeriscape gardens or areas with water restrictions.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal care, thriving in a variety of conditions and needing only occasional pruning to maintain its shape.
- Pest Resistance: The Licorice Plant is generally resistant to pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides in the garden.
- Sensory Appeal: Its soft, velvety leaves provide a unique tactile experience, while its subtle, sweet aroma is reminiscent of licorice or anise.
- Versatility: It can be used in a variety of garden designs, from formal to cottage-style, and works well as a ground cover or trailing plant.
- Deer Resistance: The Licorice Plant is not a preferred food source for deer, making it an excellent choice for gardens in areas with high deer populations.
- Easy Propagation: It can be easily propagated from cuttings, allowing gardeners to create more plants for use in other areas or to share with friends.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Helichrysum petiolare 'Limelight', commonly known as licorice plant, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, providing a range of subtle yellow to green hues dependent on the mordant used.
- The plant can be included in potpourris for its subtle fragrance and attractive, bright foliage that adds texture and color to the mixture.
- As a companion plant in gardens, licorice plant can help to deter certain pests with its scent while attracting beneficial insects.
- It can be used as a creative material in floral arts, such as pressing the leaves for decorative purposes in crafts or card making due to their shape and color.
- The licorice plant can be planted in outdoor pet areas as it is non-toxic to dogs and cats, creating a green space that is safe for pets.
- The plant's trailing habit and striking color make it a popular choice for use in educational projects that teach children about plant growth and care.
- In culinary uses, while the plant itself isn't edible, it can be used as a natural garnish to add a splash of color to dishes and drinks.
- The dried stems and leaves of licorice plant can be incorporated into homemade wreaths and other decorations, particularly during the fall, for a rustic look.
- Due to its appealing lemony scent, the crushed leaves may be used as a natural air freshener in small spaces such as drawers or closets.
- The soft, woolly texture of the licorice plant's foliage can be used in sensory gardens, providing a tactile experience for visitors.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Licorice plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Licorice plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Eternal Beauty: Helichrysum petiolare 'Limelight', commonly known as Licorice Plant, often symbolizes eternal beauty due to its evergreen foliage and the longevity of its flowers when dried.
- Healing: The Licorice Plant is associated with healing because its cousin, Helichrysum italicum, is widely recognized for its therapeutic essential oils.
- Protection: Many gardeners use the Licorice Plant for its dense foliage, which symbolizes protection by creating a barrier in gardens.
- Light-heartedness: The bright, light-green color of the Licorice Plant's leaves can represent light-heartedness and a carefree nature, bringing a cheerful presence to the garden.
WaterLicorice plant prefers consistent moisture but does not like to be waterlogged. Water it thoroughly when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, which typically amounts to once every week or so, depending on the climate and weather conditions. During the hotter months, it may require more frequent watering, possibly twice a week, to ensure the soil remains moist but not soggy. Provide about 16 to 24 ounces of water per plant during each watering session, or roughly 1 to 1.5 gallons every month. Adjust the amount based on temperature and rainfall, as the plant will require less water in cooler or rainy conditions.
LightLicorice plant thrives in full sun to partial shade. Ideally, place it in a location where it can enjoy at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, in regions with very hot summers, it appreciates some afternoon shade to protect it from the intense heat. An east- or west-facing spot that provides a balance of sunlight and shade is perfect for optimal growth.
TemperatureLicorice plant does well in a wide range of temperatures, tolerating a minimum of around 30 degrees Fahrenheit and thriving in conditions up to 80 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Ideally, keep it in an environment where the temperature stays between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit for the best growth. It's not frost-hardy, so if temperatures dip below freezing, it's important to provide protection or move the plant indoors.
PruningLicorice plant should be pruned to encourage bushiness and to maintain the desired shape. Trim the tips of the plant in the spring or early summer when new growth begins. This can be done once or twice throughout the growing season. Pinching back the stems helps to create a denser foliage. The best time for more extensive pruning is late winter or early spring, just before the new growth starts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLicorice plant 'Limelight' thrives in well-draining soil with added organic matter and prefers a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of two parts peat or coco coir, one part perlite, and one part compost would provide the necessary drainage and nutrients.
RepottingLicorice plant 'Limelight' should typically be repotted every two to three years or when the plant has outgrown its current container, to ensure room for growth and fresh soil.
Humidity & MistingLicorice plant 'Limelight' is adaptable but performs best in medium to high humidity conditions; however, it can tolerate lower humidity without adverse effects.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade; shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycle'Limelight' licorice plant starts as a seed, entering germination once conditions are favorable with appropriate warmth, moisture, and light. After germination, it grows into a seedling, producing its first true leaves and increasing in size. The young plant (juvenile phase) then matures into an adult vegetative plant, characterized by its silvery-green foliage with a hint of yellow or lime green. As an adult, it may produce small, inconspicuous flowers, although it is primarily grown for its attractive foliage. Over the growing seasons, 'Limelight' licorice plant will reach its full size and can be propagated through cuttings to create new plants. At the end of its life cycle, which can be several years with proper care, the plant will eventually die back, completing the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Licorice plant, known scientifically as Helichrysum petiolare 'Limelight', can be propagated most effectively during the warmer months of spring and early summer when the plant is actively growing. The most popular method for propagation is through stem cuttings. To propagate by cuttings, select a healthy, non-flowering stem about 4 to 6 inches long (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) and remove the lower leaves to expose a length of bare stem. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone to encourage root development and plant it in a moist, well-draining potting mix. Cover the pot with a plastic bag or place it in a propagator to maintain high humidity around the cutting. Place the cutting in bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist but not soggy. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be transplanted to a larger pot or outdoor location.
