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Description
Helichrysum Petiolare Limelight, also known as Licorice Plant or Silver Mist, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to South Africa and is widely grown for its ornamental value in gardens and landscapes. The plant has silver-gray leaves that are velvety to the touch and emit a pleasant licorice scent. Helichrysum Petiolare Limelight produces small yellow flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Helichrysum |
Appearance
Helichrysum Petiolare Limelight can grow up to 18 inches tall and 24 inches wide. Its leaves are oval-shaped, velvety, and silver-gray in color, with a wavy edge. The plant’s stems are thin and woody, and the small yellow flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall grow in clusters at the top of the stems. The plant’s foliage is the main attraction, and it adds a unique texture to any garden.
Care Guide
To care for Helichrysum Petiolare Limelight, follow these guidelines:Water: The plant likes moist soil but does not tolerate waterlogging. Water regularly but make sure the soil is well-draining.Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Helichrysum Petiolare Limelight prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Helichrysum Petiolare Limelight is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Mealybugs and spider mites can also be a problem, especially in dry conditions. To prevent these pests, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and spray the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap.
Habitat
Helichrysum Petiolare Limelight is native to South Africa and prefers dry, sunny areas. It grows well in coastal regions and is often used as a groundcover or in rock gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Helichrysum Petiolare Limelight grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant does well in containers and can be used as a trailing plant in hanging baskets.Q: How often should I fertilize Helichrysum Petiolare Limelight?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.Q: Does Helichrysum Petiolare Limelight need pruning?
A: Prune the plant in early spring to remove any dead or damaged stems.Q: Can I propagate Helichrysum Petiolare Limelight?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated through stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
– Helichrysum italicum- Helichrysum bracteatum- Helichrysum angustifolium
References
– “Helichrysum Petiolare ‘Limelight’.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 24 May 2021.- “Helichrysum Petiolare ‘Limelight’.” Fine Gardening. Taunton Press, n.d. Web. 24 May 2021.- “Licorice Plant.” Better Homes & Gardens. Meredith Corporation, n.d. Web. 24 May 2021.
