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Description
Helichrysum Patulum, commonly known as the Golden Everlasting, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to South Africa and is known for its golden yellow or orange flowers that bloom in summer and fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Helichrysum |
Appearance
The Helichrysum Patulum plant grows up to 30 cm in height and has a spread of 20 cm. Its leaves are silver-grey in color, lance-shaped, and measure up to 5 cm in length. The plant produces golden yellow or orange flowers that grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The flowers have a papery texture and can last for several weeks. The plant blooms from summer to fall.
Care Guide
The Helichrysum Patulum plant is relatively easy to care for and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Fertilization: The plant can be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Helichrysum Patulum plant is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help prevent and control these pests and diseases.
Habitat
The Helichrysum Patulum plant is native to South Africa and grows in sandy or rocky soil in full sun to partial shade. It is commonly found in coastal areas and in the fynbos biome.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Helichrysum Patulum plant edible?
A: No, the plant is not edible and can be toxic if ingested.
Q: Can the Helichrysum Patulum plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a sunny location with well-draining soil.
Q: How often should the Helichrysum Patulum plant be fertilized?
A: The plant can be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the lifespan of the Helichrysum Patulum plant?
A: The plant has a lifespan of 2-3 years.
Related Plants
- Helichrysum Bracteatum
- Helichrysum Italicum
- Helichrysum Stoechas
References
- “Helichrysum Patulum.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute. Accessed 28 July 2021. https://pza.sanbi.org/helichrysum-patulum.
- “Helichrysum Patulum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 28 July 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282758.
- “Golden Everlasting (Helichrysum Patulum).” Gardenia.net. Accessed 28 July 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/helichrysum-patulum-golden-everlasting.
