Helichrysum Bracteatum
Helichrysum bracteatum (syn. Xerochrysum bracteatum)
Helichrysum bracteatum, now correctly known as Xerochrysum bracteatum, is an Australian native annual celebrated worldwide for its vivid, papery, daisy-like blooms that retain their brilliant color and crisp form when dried. It symbolizes eternity, remembrance, and the preservation of beauty, and is one of the most important commercial dried flower crops globally.
Asteraceae (Daisy family)
Late spring through autumn frost (May to October); blooms continuously from early summer in full sun
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: zinnias and centaurea cyanuss also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The strawflower's extraordinary ability to retain its brilliant color and precise form indefinitely after drying has made it one of the most universally recognized symbols of eternity and remembrance in the floral world. The genus name Helichrysum (still widely used for this species) combines the Greek helios (sun) and chrysos (gold), and the shared common name immortelle with Helichrysum italicum reflects the same ancient impulse to see these never-fading flowers as emblems of immortality. In European Victorian funeral and mourning tradition, everlasting flowers including strawflowers were among the most prized blooms for memorial wreaths and grave decorations, chosen specifically because their appearance did not deteriorate as perishable flowers did. In the language of flowers, everlasting blooms represented always remembered and love that does not fade. Australia's native paper daisies including Xerochrysum bracteatum hold a place in Australian botanical identity, celebrated as uniquely national wildflowers. The strawflower has been cultivated commercially in Europe since the 19th century and today remains one of the world's most commercially important dried flower crops.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun; requires at least 6 hours of direct sun daily for best flowering; shade causes poor, floppy growth and reduced bloom
Water
Moderate; prefers consistent moisture during establishment and active growth; reasonably drought tolerant once established but flowers best with regular watering
Soil
Moist but well-drained, Moderately fertile, Sandy or loamy, Neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 6.0-7.5)
Expert Growing Tips
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, or sow directly outdoors after frost risk has passed; seeds germinate in 7-14 days at 70-75F (21-24C)
For dried flowers, cut stems when the outer rows of bracts are just beginning to open but before the central disc is fully exposed; cutting too late results in flowers that continue to open and look less crisp when dried
Deadhead regularly to promote continuous blooming; plants respond well to cutting which simultaneously harvests blooms and encourages new buds
Provide a well-drained but moisture-retentive soil; the plant dislikes both waterlogging and prolonged drought, both of which reduce flowering
Many cultivars will not grow true from seed; propagate named varieties by cuttings to maintain flower color and form
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Annual cutting gardens for fresh and dried arrangements
- Cottage garden and informal border color plants
- Containers and window boxes in sunny positions
- Commercial dried flower production
- Edging and mass plantings for long-season color
Traditional Uses
- No significant established medicinal uses for Helichrysum bracteatum / Xerochrysum bracteatum specifically; the plant is cultivated primarily for ornamental and commercial dried flower purposes
- Some Aboriginal Australian peoples are recorded as having used related Helichrysum species for respiratory and wound healing purposes, but bracteatum is not a primary medicinal species
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Helichrysum Bracteatum
What does the strawflower symbolize?
Strawflowers symbolize eternity, remembrance, and everlasting love or beauty. Their unique ability to retain perfect color and form after drying has made them emblems of immortality and never-fading affection. In Victorian floriography they were used in memorial wreaths and represented always remembered. They remain popular today in both funeral and wedding arrangements for the same symbolic reasons.
How do I dry strawflowers properly?
Cut stems when the outer bracts are opening but before the central disc is fully exposed, ideally in the morning after any dew has dried. Remove lower leaves and bind several stems together in a small bunch. Hang upside down in a warm, dry, airy, dark location for 2-3 weeks. Darkness helps preserve the color. Flowers dried this way will retain their appearance for months or even years.
Are strawflowers annuals or perennials?
Most garden strawflowers (Helichrysum bracteatum / Xerochrysum bracteatum) are grown as annuals in temperate climates and complete their life cycle in one season. However, some named cultivars are true perennials in warm climates (Zones 8-10) and will return year after year in frost-free or very mild regions.
What is the correct scientific name for strawflower?
The strawflower was traditionally classified as Helichrysum bracteatum and is still widely sold and listed under that name. However, modern botanical classification places it in the separate genus Xerochrysum as Xerochrysum bracteatum. Both names refer to the same plant and you will find it listed under either in different sources.
Do strawflowers attract pollinators?
Yes, strawflowers attract a range of pollinators including butterflies and bees, which visit the central disc florets for nectar and pollen. They are a useful pollinator plant in the summer garden as well as a cutting and drying flower, adding ecological value alongside their ornamental appeal.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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