Strawflowers are also known as everlasting flowers or Xerochrysum bracteatum. They are sometimes referred to by their former name, Helichrysum bracteatum, too. The blooms are relatively small yet intricate, have a shiny, papery texture, and come in a variety of pretty hues, spanning from yellows and reds to pinks and white.
Native to Australia, these are sun-loving plants. In warmer climates (hardiness zones 8 to 11), they can be grown as short-lived perennials, but those of us with hot summers and cool winters can grow them as annuals instead. They are an eye-catching addition to containers and flowerbeds, and are popular cutting garden flowers.
If you want to grow these jewel-like blooms in your backyard, there are a few key tips to bear in mind. Below, gardening experts share advice on soil type, watering, pruning, and more, to help you get the best from your display.
How to grow strawflowers
Strawflowers are some of the best flowers for drying; Allison Zeeb of seed company Sahin – Takii Europe points out that they hold their color beautifully. Because of this, they are a useful plant for long-lasting displays indoors, or for floral crafts (such as making strawflower baubles).
To dry strawflowers at home, Amy Enfield, senior horticulturist at ScottsMiracle-Gro, recommends harvesting them when about two to three layers of petals have unfolded, but before the flower is fully open. 'Cut the stems and hang them upside down in a warm, dry, dark place with good air circulation,' she says.
Growing habits of strawflowers
Strawflowers are upright plants, reaching up to around 3ft (although you can also get compact varieties). Amy notes how tall varieties benefit from being staked to help support the stems.
Although sometimes available as pot-grown plants from garden centers or nurseries, they are easy flowers to grow from seed. 'If your summers are long and warm, you can sow their seeds directly outdoors around mid-April,' says Allison.
For those of us with shorter growing seasons, Allison says it's best to get them started indoors – 'about six to eight weeks before your last frost.' The seeds need light to germinate, so simply press them gently onto the soil surface without covering them, she adds. 'Once the danger of frost has passed, transplant your seedlings outdoors, giving them about 12-18 inches of space.' Remember to harden them off, first.
Care guide for strawflowers
- Soil: According to Allison, strawflowers prefer well-drained, somewhat sandy soil. Amy says to avoid planting in heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture. 'Amending garden beds before planting can help improve soil drainage,' she adds.
- Light: 'Strawflowers really thrive in full sun – at least six hours a day will give you the best show of blooms,' says Allison. While they will tolerate some light shading, they often produce fewer flowers and have weaker stems, Amy notes.
- Watering: 'Once established, strawflowers are fairly drought tolerant,' says Amy. 'They should be watered deeply whenever the top one to two inches of soil feels dry, but avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot.'
- Fertilizing: 'Strawflowers are not considered “heavy feeders”,' Amy continues. 'But, feeding with a fertilizer containing a boost of phosphorus, like Miracle-Gro® Shake ‘n Feed® Rose & Bloom Plant Food [available from Amazon], can help promote more flowers. Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers which can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flowers.'
- Pruning: When your strawflowers are about a foot tall, Amy recommends pinching back the growing tips to encourage bushier growth and ultimately more blooms. Regular deadheading is also beneficial, highlights Allison, as it will encourage more flowers.
- Toxicity: Amy says strawflowers are not toxic to people or pets. 'However, as with any plant, it’s always best to prevent ingestion by pets and small children.'
FAQs
Are strawflowers susceptible to disease?
'Fungal diseases like downy mildew, gray mold, and root rot can be problematic during overly wet conditions or with poor air circulation,' says Amy. 'To help prevent fungal problems, make sure plants are given ample room to grow and water at the base of the plant to help keep the foliage dry.'
What other flowers work well for dried displays?
Hydrangeas are some of the best flowering shrubs and the impressive blooms are also great for drying. Our guide on how to dry hydrangeas explains the process.
Strawflowers tend to flower from late spring right up until late fall, giving you a gorgeous display for many months. If you're looking for more sun-loving plants to go alongside, consider growing zinnias, too. They also do best in well-draining soil and are relatively drought-tolerant once established – plus, there are so many beautiful varieties to choose from.
Shop flowerbed accessories
Plant these well-rated, heirloom seeds from small business Sow Right Seeds, and enjoy a beautiful summer display.
Whether you're deadheading spent blooms or collecting stems for indoors, these snips with their carbon steel blades will help keep your cuts precise.
Keep your indoor and outdoor plants hydrated with this sturdy, galvanized steel watering can, featuring a removable spout.
