Contents
Description
Xerochrysum is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, commonly known as “hardy everlastings” or “strawflowers.” These tough plants are native to Australia, where they grow in a variety of habitats, from coastal plains to mountain ranges. Xerochrysum are prized for their colorful flowers that can last for months, even after they have been cut and dried. There are about 30 species in the Xerochrysum genus, ranging in height from 12 inches to 4 feet. They have long, narrow leaves that are covered in fine hairs, giving them a silvery appearance. The flowers are produced in clusters at the top of the stems and come in a range of colors, including yellow, orange, pink, red, and white.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Xerochrysum |
Appearance
Xerochrysum plants have long, narrow leaves that are covered in fine hairs, giving them a silvery appearance. The flowers are produced in clusters at the top of the stems and come in a range of colors, including yellow, orange, pink, red, and white. The flowers are daisy-like, with a central disk surrounded by ray flowers. The flowers are papery and dry, giving them their common name of “strawflowers.”
Care Guide
Xerochrysum plants are easy to care for and are very hardy. They are drought-tolerant and can handle a range of soil types, from sandy to clay. Here are some tips for caring for Xerochrysum:- Water: Xerochrysum plants are drought-tolerant, but they still need regular watering. Water them deeply once a week during the growing season, and less frequently in the winter.- Fertilization: Xerochrysum plants don’t need a lot of fertilizer, but you can give them a boost by adding some compost or slow-release fertilizer to the soil in the spring.- Soil: Xerochrysum plants can grow in a range of soil types, but they prefer well-draining soil. Add some sand or perlite to heavy soil to improve drainage.- Sunlight: Xerochrysum plants need full sun to thrive. Plant them in a spot that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Xerochrysum plants are hardy in USDA zones 8-11. They can be grown as annuals in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Xerochrysum plants are relatively pest and disease-resistant, but they can be affected by a few common problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that can affect Xerochrysum:- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck sap from the plant and cause leaves to curl and distort. You can control aphids by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or by using insecticidal soap.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and bronzing of the leaves. You can control spider mites by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or by using insecticidal soap.- Botrytis blight: This fungal disease can cause gray mold to develop on the flowers and leaves. You can control botrytis blight by removing infected plant material and improving air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Xerochrysum plants are native to Australia, where they grow in a variety of habitats, from coastal plains to mountain ranges. They are well-suited to hot, dry climates and can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clay.
Question and Answer
Q: How long do Xerochrysum flowers last?
A: Xerochrysum flowers can last for months, even after they have been cut and dried. They are often used in dried flower arrangements.
Q: Can Xerochrysum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Xerochrysum can be grown in containers. Choose a large container with good drainage and plant the Xerochrysum in well-draining soil. Water regularly and fertilize in the spring and summer.
Q: Do Xerochrysum plants attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Xerochrysum flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Xerochrysum be grown from seed?
A: Yes, Xerochrysum can be grown from seed. Sow the seeds in the spring, either indoors or outdoors. The seeds will germinate in 7-14 days.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Xerochrysum:- Helichrysum: Another genus of everlastings, with a wide range of colors and forms.- Gomphrena: A genus of annuals with globe-shaped flowers that come in a range of colors.- Echinacea: A genus of perennials that are prized for their ornamental flowers and medicinal properties.
References
– “Xerochrysum.” Australian Plant Name Index. Centre for Plant Biodiversity Research, Australian Government. Accessed 18 May 2021. https://biodiversity.org.au/nsl/services/search/names?q=Xerochrysum.- “Xerochrysum bracteatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 18 May 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277385.- “Xerochrysum bracteatum (Vent.) Tzvelev.” Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Accessed 18 May 2021. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:251442-1.
