Licorice Plant Helichrysum petiolare 'Variegatum' (v)
ABOUT
The Licorice Plant, as Helichrysum petiolare 'Variegatum' is commonly known, is a captivating specimen with its unique foliage providing both texture and visual interest. The leaves of this plant are particularly striking due to their variegation, characterized by irregular creamy white edges that contrast beautifully with the soft gray-green centers. The leaves are small, rounded, and often have a slightly puckered appearance, which adds to their charm. Adding to its aesthetic appeal, the Licorice Plant's foliage also has a velvety texture, inviting one to reach out and touch the soft, fuzzy surface. This tactile quality is due to the fine hairs that cover the leaves, reflecting light in a way that can make the variegation appear to glow when backlit by sunlight. The stems of the Licorice Plant are a complementary shade, often adopting the silvery tones of the foliage and providing a lovely framework for the leaves to spill over. The trailing nature of the stems lends itself well to a variety of uses in landscaping and container gardening, creating a cascade of color and texture that can soften edges and add depth. As for its blooms, while not as conspicuous or celebrated as its foliage, the Licorice Plant produces small, inconspicuous flower heads that may add a subtle additional texture to the plant in the right conditions. However, it's the distinctive foliage that is the main attraction of this plant, making it a beloved choice for gardeners looking for year-round visual interest without reliance on showy flowers.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Variegated Licorice Plant, Trailing Dusty Miller, White Licorice.
Common names
Helichrysum petiolare 'Variegatum'.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant Helichrysum petiolare 'Variegatum', commonly known as Licorice Plant, is not listed as toxic to humans. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities can exist, and it is generally not advisable to ingest parts of ornamental plants. Accidental ingestion of the Licorice Plant is unlikely to cause severe symptoms of poisoning; however, if large quantities are consumed, it may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort or an allergic reaction in susceptible individuals.
To pets
The Licorice Plant is not typically listed as toxic to pets. However, as with humans, individual animals may experience different sensitivities. While it’s not known to be poisonous, ingestion of this plant might cause mild digestive upset or an allergic reaction in some pets. If you suspect your pet has ingested a large amount of the Licorice Plant and is showing signs of illness, it is best to consult with a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Helichrysum petiolare 'Variegatum', also known as variegated licorice plant, offers attractive foliage with a unique blend of green and cream colors that can add visual interest in gardens and landscapes.
- Drought Tolerance: This plant is quite tolerant of dry conditions, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping or gardens in arid climates.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal care once established, which can save time and effort for gardeners.
- Fast Growth: The variegated licorice plant tends to grow quickly, providing swift coverage or filling in garden spaces effectively.
- Versatility: It can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, pots, hanging baskets, and as groundcover, making it a flexible choice for many design plans.
- Deer Resistance: The plant is generally not preferred by deer, which can be an advantage in areas where deer predation is a problem for gardens.
- Erosion Control: With its spreading habit, it can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and banks.
- Companion Planting: Its unique foliage makes it an excellent companion plant that can enhance the overall aesthetics when paired with flowers and other foliage plants.
- Seasonal Interest: In addition to its foliage, it produces small flowers that can add seasonal interest to the garden, especially in late spring to summer.
- Pest Resistance: The variegated licorice plant is not commonly afflicted by pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments and making it a more environmentally friendly choice.
- Safe for Wildlife: The plant is safe for wildlife, providing a habitat without the risk of toxicity for birds, insects, and other animals.
- Long-Lasting: Its leaves can be used in floral arrangements and crafts, as they maintain their color and shape well when dried.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Floral Arrangements: The dried flowers of the Licorice Plant can be used in floral arrangements for their texture and ability to retain color, adding a unique aesthetic to bouquets and centerpieces.
- Craft Projects: Leaves from the Licorice Plant can be used in craft projects, either pressed or fresh, to create natural decorations or inclusions in paper making.
- Perfumery: The Licorice Plant can sometimes be used in the perfumery industry as a natural fragrance component due to its distinctive scent.
- Dye Production: The flowers and leaves of the Licorice Plant may be used to produce natural dyes for textiles, offering a range of colors depending on the mordant used.
- Garden Borders: The variegated foliage of Licorice Plant makes it an excellent choice for creating visually striking borders in gardens and landscapes.
- Erosion Control: The Licorice Plant is a good ground cover and can be used on slopes or areas where soil erosion is a concern due to its dense growth habit.
- Culinary Garnish: While not commonly used for flavor, the leaves of the Licorice Plant can serve as an attractive garnish for culinary dishes due to their interesting shape and variegation.
- Photography Prop: The texture and color of Licorice Plant's foliage can make it an appealing prop for still-life and macro photography.
- Education: The Licorice Plant can be used in educational settings to teach about variegation, plant care, and propagation techniques.
- Memory Keepsakes: Leaves from the Licorice Plant can be incorporated into memory books or keepsake boxes as a decorative element representing a specific garden or event.
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- Everlasting Life: Helichrysum petiolare 'Variegatum,' commonly known as Licorice Plant, often symbolizes everlasting life due to its relation with the everlasting or immortelle flowers, known for retaining their shape and color when dried.
- Healing: The Licorice Plant is also associated with healing in the language of plants, as the Helichrysum genus includes species renowned for their healing properties.
- Protection: In some traditions, the Licorice Plant represents protection, as it can be used in potpourris or sachets to ward off negative energies or pests.
- Resilience: The hardiness of the Licorice Plant is often seen as a symbol of resilience, being able to thrive in less than ideal conditions and symbolizing the ability to endure challenges.
WaterThe Licorice Plant should be watered regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not soggy. During the growing season, watering should be done when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which may typically be once or twice a week depending on climate conditions. It's best to water deeply, ensuring that the water reaches the root zone. On average, the plant may need around 16 ounces of water per session, though this will vary with pot size and environmental factors. During winter, reduce watering frequency to prevent root rot due to lower temperatures and reduced sunlight.
LightLicorice Plant thrives best in full sun to partial shade. Ideally, it should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, making an east or west-facing window a suitable spot for indoor plants. For outdoor planting, ensure it's placed in a location where it can enjoy morning sunlight but is protected from the intense heat of the afternoon.
TemperatureLicorice Plant prefers temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 30 degrees Fahrenheit but should be guarded against frost. To maintain a happy plant, avoid exposure to temperatures below freezing and try to keep it in a comfortable room temperature setting when grown indoors.
PruningPruning the Licorice Plant is essential for maintaining a bushy, compact shape and encouraging new growth. Prune in late winter or early spring before the new growth starts, cutting back leggy stems to 1/3 of their length. Regular pinching back of the tips during the growing season can also promote a dense habit. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves as needed to keep the plant looking its best.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLicorice plant prefers well-draining soil with a mix of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5 to ensure the plant thrives.
RepottingLicorice plants should generally be repotted every two years or when they become root-bound.
Humidity & MistingLicorice plant tolerates a range of humidity levels but thrives best in moderate humidity, typically around 40-50%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light, and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Grow in partial to full sun, shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA.
Life cycleHelichrysum petiolare 'Variegatum', also known as the variegated licorice plant, begins its life cycle as a seed, germinating in well-draining soil with adequate warmth and moisture. The seedling emerges with characteristic variegated foliage, and as it enters the vegetative stage, it develops a bushy form with woody stems and grey-green leaves with white edges. During its growth phase, it requires full to partial sun and moderate watering to establish a strong root system and promote healthy foliage. The plant may produce small, inconspicuous yellow flowers in summer, although it is primarily grown for its ornamental leaves. As it matures, the variegated licorice plant can be pruned to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Finally, after several years, as it reaches the end of its lifecycle, the plant may become leggy and less vigorous, at which point it can be propagated from cuttings or replaced to maintain garden aesthetics.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: The most popular method for propagating Helichrysum petiolare 'Variegatum', commonly known as the variegated licorice plant, is through stem cuttings. This activity is ideally done in spring to early summer when the plant is in its active growth phase. To propagate, take a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches in length from a healthy parent plant. Remove the lower leaves to expose the nodes and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder to enhance root development. The cutting should then be planted in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix and kept moist under bright, indirect sunlight. In a few weeks, roots should develop, and once they do, the new plant can be transitioned to a regular watering routine and eventually moved to a larger pot or outdoor location as desired.
