Helichrysum Spiralepis
Contents
Description
Helichrysum Spiralepis, also known as the Spiral Everlasting Flower, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to South Africa and Mozambique and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant for its unique spiral-shaped leaves and everlasting flowers. The plant can grow up to 30 cm tall and produces small yellow flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The leaves are silver-green in color and spiral up the stem in a corkscrew-like pattern, giving the plant its distinctive appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Helichrysum |
Appearance
The Helichrysum Spiralepis plant has a unique appearance thanks to its spiral-shaped leaves. Each leaf is silver-green in color and measures about 2 cm in length. The leaves spiral up the stem in a corkscrew-like pattern, giving the plant its distinctive appearance. The plant produces small yellow flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are about 1 cm in diameter and are borne on long, slender stems that rise above the foliage. The flowers are long-lasting and can be dried for use in floral arrangements.
Care Guide
Helichrysum Spiralepis is a relatively low-maintenance plant. Here are some tips on how to care for it:- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly during the growing season. However, be careful not to overwater, as the plant is susceptible to root rot.- Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization. A balanced, all-purpose fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Adding organic matter to the soil can help improve its fertility.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Helichrysum Spiralepis is susceptible to spider mites and aphids. Regularly inspecting the plant for these pests and treating them promptly can help prevent infestations. The plant is also susceptible to root rot if overwatered or if grown in poorly-drained soil.
Habitat
Helichrysum Spiralepis is native to South Africa and Mozambique. It grows in rocky, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. The plant is adapted to hot, dry conditions and can tolerate drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Helichrysum Spiralepis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, as long as it is kept in a sunny location and the soil is well-drained.
Q: Can the flowers be used in floral arrangements?
A: Yes, the flowers are long-lasting and can be dried for use in floral arrangements.
Q: Is Helichrysum Spiralepis deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant.
Q: What is the best time to prune Helichrysum Spiralepis?
A: The best time to prune the plant is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that are also members of the Helichrysum genus:- Helichrysum italicum (Curry Plant)- Helichrysum petiolare (Licorice Plant)- Helichrysum bracteatum (Strawflower)- Helichrysum angustifolium (Narrowleaf Everlasting)
References
– “Helichrysum Spiralepis.” PlantZAfrica.com. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 1 Oct. 2021.- “Helichrysum Spiralepis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 1 Oct. 2021.
