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Description
Helichrysum Petiolare Variegatum, also called Licorice Plant, is a perennial plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is known for its beautiful silver and green variegated leaves. This plant can grow up to 18 inches tall and 24 inches wide, and it produces small yellow flowers in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Helichrysum |
Appearance
Helichrysum Petiolare Variegatum has unique silver and green variegated leaves that are hairy, oval-shaped, and about 1-2 inches long. The leaves are slightly fuzzy to the touch, and they have a licorice-like fragrance when crushed. This plant produces small yellow flowers in the summer, but they are not as showy as the leaves.
Care Guide
Helichrysum Petiolare Variegatum is easy to care for and can be grown indoors or outdoors. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Potting soil mixed with perlite or sand is a good option.
- Sunlight: Helichrysum Petiolare Variegatum prefers full sun to partial shade. Indoors, it can be placed near a south-facing window.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in zones 9-11, but it can be grown as an annual in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Helichrysum Petiolare Variegatum is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, make sure the plant is not overwatered and keep the plant’s leaves clean and dry. If necessary, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Helichrysum Petiolare Variegatum is native to South Africa and grows in rocky, well-draining soil in coastal areas. It is a drought-tolerant plant and can grow in both full sun and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Helichrysum Petiolare Variegatum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors near a south-facing window.
Q: How often should I fertilize Helichrysum Petiolare Variegatum?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Helichrysum Petiolare Variegatum deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is generally deer-resistant.
Q: How often should I water Helichrysum Petiolare Variegatum?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Related Plants
- Helichrysum italicum
- Helichrysum bracteatum
- Helichrysum stoechas
References
- “Helichrysum petiolare ‘Variegatum’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c823.
- “Helichrysum petiolare.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/helichrysum/helichrysum-licorice-plant.htm.
- “Licorice Plant (Helichrysum petiolare).” Costa Farms, www.costafarms.com/plants/licorice-plant.
