Jersey Cudweed Helichrysum milfordiae
ABOUT
Helichrysum milfordiae, commonly known as the Milford's everlasting, is a plant that has a distinctive and attractive appearance. The leaves of Milford's everlasting are typically narrow and elongated, with a silvery or grayish-green hue, often covered in fine, silky hairs that give them a soft texture and contribute to a fuzzy look. This foliage provides a beautiful contrast to its flowers. The flowers themselves are one of the most remarkable features of the Milford's everlasting. They are usually small, bright, and button-like, boasting a palette of vibrant yellows, golds, or orange tones. The blooms are grouped together in clusters that resemble flat or slightly rounded bouquets, known as inflorescences. These flower clusters often have a papery texture, which is why the plant is associated with the term 'everlasting', as they maintain their shape and color even after drying. The overall shape of the plant is often rounded or mound-forming. The stems are sturdy and may appear woody, especially as the plant matures. Due to its attractive foliage and long-lasting flowers, Milford's everlasting is commonly used in gardens for visual interest and is especially valued for its drought-tolerant properties, making it a favorite in dry or rocky soil environments where other plants might struggle to thrive.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Milford's Everlasting, Milford's Strawflower
Common names
Helichrysum milfordiae
ToxicityTo humans
There is limited information available on Helichrysum milfordiae, commonly known as the Licorice Plant. It is not widely known as a toxic plant to humans, and there are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting this plant. However, as with any plant, individual allergic reactions or sensitivities are possible. If an adverse reaction is suspected after ingestion or contact with the Licorice Plant, medical attention should be sought.
To pets
Information specific to the toxicity of Helichrysum milfordiae, known as the Licorice Plant, to pets is not widely documented. It is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets such as dogs and cats. However, as with any plant, it is possible that some pets may have individual sensitivities or allergic reactions if they ingest parts of the Licorice Plant. If signs of distress or illness are observed after a pet has ingested this plant, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Grey-green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Helichrysum milfordiae, commonly known as Licorice Plant, is often used in gardens and landscapes for its attractive silver-gray foliage and small, yellow flowers.
- Drought Tolerance: It is known for its ability to withstand dry conditions once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Low Maintenance: Licorice Plant requires minimal care, making it a convenient choice for gardeners of all levels.
- Pest Resistance: This plant is generally resistant to many common garden pests, reducing the need for chemical pest control.
- Erosion Control: Licorice Plant can help prevent soil erosion due to its root structure, especially in rocky or sandy landscapes.
- Long Blooming Period: It has a relatively long flowering season, providing visual interest throughout the growing season.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers of Helichrysum milfordiae can attract beneficial insects such as butterflies and bees to the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Helichrysum milfordiae, commonly known as Everlasting Flower, can be applied in the dyeing process, as the flowers may produce subtle hues on natural fabrics.
- Dried Everlasting Flowers are often utilized in the creation of natural potpourris, contributing a mild fragrance and retaining their shape and color over time.
- The plant is used in landscaping as a ground cover due to its low-growing and spreading habit, offering erosion control on slopes and banks.
- Everlasting Flower is used in xeriscaping, a landscaping technique that seeks to reduce or eliminate the need for irrigation.
- This plant serves as a natural border in gardens, due to its ability to grow densely, providing clear demarcation lines between different garden areas.
- Crafters use the long-lasting dried flowers of Everlasting Flower in homemade paper creation, embedding them into the pulp for a decorative effect.
- In floral arts, the Everlasting Flower's dried blooms are incorporated into wreaths and dried flower arrangements where they retain color and form for an extended period.
- Everlasting Flower can be included in sensory gardens, as the textured foliage and flowers can be interesting to touch, especially for educational purposes for children.
- The plant is incorporated into butterfly gardens, attracting pollinators with its bright blossoms and contributing to biodiversity.
- Some cultures may use Helichrysum milfordiae in symbolic ceremonies or remembrance events, as the name Everlasting Flower suggests themes of memory and longevity.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Helichrysum milfordiae is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Helichrysum milfordiae is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Helichrysum milfordiae, commonly known as the "Everlasting Flower," is admired for its ability to retain its shape and color when dried, symbolizing an enduring spirit and the ability to withstand hardships.
- Healing: Known for its therapeutic properties in herbal medicine, this plant represents healing and the restoration of health, reflecting its usage in treatments for various ailments.
- Immortality: Its retention of a fresh appearance long after being picked lends this flower the symbolism of eternity and everlasting life, resonating with themes of immortality in different cultures.
- Memory: The Everlasting Flower is often associated with remembrance and the undying nature of memory, making it a fitting tribute in commemorations and significant occasions where honoring past events or individuals is essential.
- Beauty: With its attractive blooms that maintain their beauty over time, Helichrysum milfordiae symbolizes an enduring and timeless beauty that transcends the aging process or changes in circumstances.
WaterThe Licorice Plant should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically equates to once a week, but this can vary depending on environmental conditions like temperature and humidity. It's important not to let the soil become waterlogged, so ensure good drainage. A general guideline is to provide the Licorice Plant with about 16 to 32 ounces of water every watering session, depending on the size of the pot and the plant's needs, adjusting as necessary for the plant's response and the season.
LightLicorice Plants prefer a location where they receive full sun to partial shade, thriving best with direct morning sunlight and some afternoon shade to protect from the intense heat. A south-facing or west-facing window that provides bright but indirect light for most of the day is ideal for indoor plants.
TemperatureLicorice Plants flourish in a temperature range of 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit but can tolerate temperatures as low as 30 degrees and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal conditions are a stable environment without significant temperature fluctuations, protecting the plant from drafts and extreme cold.
PruningPruning the Licorice Plant is vital for encouraging bushier growth and maintaining an attractive shape. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts, cutting back up to one-third of the plant's size. Dead or damaged stems should be removed as they appear to keep the plant healthy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Cushion Bush prefers a well-draining soil mix with sandy or loamy components and a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A mixture of potting soil, coarse sand, and peat can be ideal to ensure adequate drainage and aeration.
RepottingCushion Bushes should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and to accommodate root growth. It's best to repot in the spring.
Humidity & MistingCushion Bushes are tolerant of dry conditions but prefer moderate humidity levels. Avoid excessively humid environments as this can lead to fungal issues.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, well-draining soil, and infrequent water.
Outdoor
Place in full sun to partial shade, in dry, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleHelichrysum milfordiae, more commonly known as Licorice Everlasting, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which typically occurs in well-drained soil and a sunny location. After germination, the seedling stage involves the development of a small rosette of leaves and a root system. As the plant enters the vegetative stage, it grows larger and produces more leaves, preparing for the flowering stage. During the flowering stage, Licorice Everlasting produces clusters of small, yellow, daisy-like flowers that are attractive to pollinators. Following pollination, the plant produces fruits that contain seeds, completing the reproductive stage. The seeds are eventually dispersed, allowing for the next generation to begin, and the plant enters a period of dormancy or dies back, depending on the climate and environmental conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
The most popular method of propagating Helichrysum milfordiae, commonly known as the Licorice Plant, is through cuttings. This method is typically conducted in the warmer seasons, such as spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. To propagate by cuttings, a healthy, non-flowering stem of about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) is cut from the parent plant. The lower leaves are removed to expose the nodes, and the cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The stem is then placed in well-draining soil and kept moist but not waterlogged, and in a warm environment with indirect sunlight. Roots typically form within a few weeks, at which point the new plant can be gradually acclimated to more direct light and eventually transplanted into the garden or a larger container.
