Everlasting Daisy Xerochrysum bracteatum
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as the strawflower bears quite a distinctive, eye-catching appearance. One of its most remarkable features is its vibrant, papery flowers that resemble daisy-like blooms. These flowers come in a wide range of colors, including shades of yellow, orange, red, pink, and sometimes even white or bicolor varieties. The petals are, in fact, modified leaves called bracts, which encircle the central disk of tiny, true flowers. These bracts have a crisp, everlasting texture that retains its color and shape even when the flowers are dried, which makes the strawflower a popular choice for dried floral arrangements. Additionally, the blossoms are composed of numerous individual flowers, each contributing to the dense, textured appearance of the floral head. The flowers bloom atop long, sturdy stems that are adorned with narrow, lance-shaped leaves. The foliage has a slightly silvery-green hue and sometimes a soft, felt-like coating. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stems, providing a simple yet luscious background that showcases the striking flower heads. As a whole, the strawflower presents a combination of striking colors and durability, making it a favorite in gardens and floral displays for its long-lasting, brightly colored inflorescences that can survive well beyond the growing season.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Golden Everlasting, Strawflower.
Common names
Bracteantha bracteata, Helichrysum bracteatum, Helichrysum lucidum, Helichrysum monstrosum, Xeranthemum bracteatum.
ToxicityTo humans
Xerochrysum bracteatum, commonly known as Strawflower, is not known to be toxic to humans. There are no widespread reports of poisoning or adverse reactions from ingesting parts of this plant. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities can occur, so it's always best to err on the side of caution and not consume plant parts unless they are known to be edible.
To pets
Strawflower, or Xerochrysum bracteatum, is not listed as a toxic plant to pets such as dogs and cats. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from this plant in household pets. Nevertheless, it is still recommended to discourage pets from ingesting plants as individual animals may have unique sensitivities, and ingestion of non-food items can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset or blockages.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Australia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Xerochrysum bracteatum, commonly known as the golden everlasting or strawflower, offers vibrant and striking colors that enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Drought Tolerance: Being a plant of Australian origin, it is highly adapted to dry conditions, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens and xeriscaping.
- Long-lasting Blooms: The flowers of the golden everlasting are known for their durability and can retain their color and form for long periods, even after being cut.
- Low Maintenance: This plant typically requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Attracts Pollinators: The bright flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, aiding in pollination of surrounding plants.
- Cut Flower Use: Due to their long-lasting nature, the blooms of strawflower are commonly used in floral arrangements and crafts, such as dried flower bouquets.
- Variety of Uses: Strawflower is versatile in its use, suitable for bedding, borders, pots, and as a ground cover depending on how it is cultivated.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Xerochrysum bracteatum, commonly known as the strawflower, has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Antioxidant: The plant contains flavonoids and other compounds that may exhibit antioxidant effects.
- Antimicrobial: Some studies suggest that extracts from the strawflower might have antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria and fungi.
- Wound healing: There are claims that Xerochrysum bracteatum may aid in the healing of wounds; however, scientific evidence supporting this use is not robust.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Xerochrysum bracteatum, commonly known as the Strawflower, can be used in crafting due to the durability of its flowers, which retain color and shape when dried.
- Strawflowers are often utilized in dried floral arrangements or bouquets, as they provide a long-lasting and vibrant option.
- They can be incorporated into wreaths and other decorative items that benefit from their texture and color retention.
- Strawflowers are sometimes used in potpourri mixes, adding a splash of color and a subtle natural fragrance.
- The stiff, papery bracts of the flowers can be employed in natural art projects or as part of educational materials to teach about plant structures.
- They may be used in fashion, specifically in creating floral crowns, due to their longevity and variety of colors.
- In some cultures, strawflowers may be used as symbols or decorations during specific festivals or ceremonies due to their bright appearance.
- Photographers and artists might use strawflowers as subjects or inspiration due to their unique texture and vivid hues.
- Biodegradable confetti can be created from the dried petals of the Strawflower, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional synthetic confetti.
- Some people use the Strawflower to create natural dyes for fabric, giving it a unique range of colors based on the different shades of the blooms.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Strawflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Strawflower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Permanence and immortality: Known commonly as the Strawflower, Xerochrysum bracteatum's most distinctive feature is its ability to retain color and form when dried, symbolizing lasting life or memory beyond death.
- Resilience and hardiness: As a plant that thrives in harsh and dry environments, the Strawflower represents the ability to endure challenging conditions and persist against the odds.
- Everlasting happiness: The Strawflower's bright and everlasting blooms are often associated with joy that does not fade, making it an emblem of continuous happiness.
- Protection: In some traditions, these flowers are thought to hold protective qualities, possibly due to their longevity and enduring nature.
WaterThe Strawflower prefers consistent moisture but does not like to be overly wet. Water the plant thoroughly and deeply, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. An average recommendation is to provide about 1 inch of water per week, either through rainfall or manual watering. During the active growth season in spring and summer, you might water once or twice a week depending on weather conditions. Reduce the frequency in winter when the plant's water needs decrease.
LightStrawflowers thrive in full sunlight, which means they should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight a day. An ideal spot would be a south-facing garden bed where the plant can enjoy the sun throughout the day. Though Strawflowers can tolerate some light shade, too much shade can lead to leggy plants and reduced flowering.
TemperatureStrawflowers do best in warm climates and should be protected from frost. They can generally tolerate temperatures down to about 30°F but prefer a range between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. They can survive in temperatures up to 90°F but may require additional watering to cope with the heat.
PruningStrawflowers require minimal pruning. Deadheading spent flowers will promote further blooming and maintain the plant's appearance. At the end of the season, cut back the plants to encourage bushiness and remove any dead or damaged stems. The best time for pruning is late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Strawflower should be well-draining with a mix of loam, sand, and peat, providing good aeration and moisture retention. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ideally between 5.5 and 7.0.
RepottingStrawflowers should be repotted every couple of years or as they outgrow their containers, generally at the start of the growing season to minimize stress to the plant.
Humidity & MistingStrawflowers are quite tolerant and can thrive in a range of humidity levels but prefer moderate humidity. They do well in typical household humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Strawflower in bright, indirect light indoors for best growth.
Outdoor
Plant Strawflower in full sun to partial shade outdoors.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Xerochrysum bracteatum, commonly known as the strawflower, begins as a seed, which germinates in spring or early summer under the right conditions of warmth and moisture. The seedling emerges, establishing a root system and a rosette of leaves, before developing into a mature plant with a strong stem and foliage. During the flowering stage, which typically occurs in the warmer months, the plant produces vivid, papery flowers with a central disc of florets surrounded by colorful bracts. After pollination, which is often facilitated by insects, the plant sets seeds contained within a dry fruit called an achene. These seeds can be dispersed by wind, allowing for the colonization of new areas. The strawflower is perennial in nature, capable of surviving through different seasons, although in colder climates it may be grown as an annual, completing its life cycle within one year.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagating the Strawflower (Xerochrysum bracteatum) is via seed sowing. Seeds are typically sown in spring, as the warmer temperatures assist with germination. To begin, fill a tray or pots with a well-draining seed starting mix. Scatter the tiny seeds on the surface, pressing them lightly into the soil, but do not cover them as they need light to germinate. Moisten the soil using a fine mist to avoid disturbing the seeds. Place the container in a warm area with plenty of indirect light. Germination usually occurs within 2 to 3 weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
