Strawflower (Xerochrysum bracteatum) is also known as everlasting flower, immortelle and paper daisy. Strawflower plants have an upright habit and branching flower stems topped with many-petalled blooms to 8cm across. Hardy annuals, strawflowers bloom abundantly from summer into autumn, in shades of red, pink, yellow, orange, purple and white. The naturally dry texture of the blooms makes them an excellent choice as cut flowers to use fresh, or in dried arrangements that will last for years. Strawflower grows quickly and easily from seed and lasts for one growing season only.
How to grow strawflower
Strawflower originates from Australia and therefore needs well-drained soil and plenty of sun to thrive in the UK. It’s easy to grow from seed either sown directly where it is to flower outside, or in modular trays under cover. Alternatively, buy strawflower as ready-grown seedlings or plug plants in spring. Once established, strawflowers need little care apart from watering if grown in pots. When flowering has finished, pull up and add to the compost heap.
Where to grow strawflower
Strawflower needs a sunny site and reasonably fertile, well-drained soil. Grow in borders, in groups or patches to fill bare spaces between long-lived shrubs and perennials, or plant with other sun-loving hardy annuals for a colourful summer display. You could also grow strawflower in a cutting garden specifically for harvesting.
Grow compact free-flowering varieties in pots, in peat-free multi-purpose potting compost mixed with a quarter by volume of coarse grit or perlite to aid drainage.
How to plant strawflower
Either sow seed direct in the ground in mid to late spring to bloom later in the season or start off seeds under cover in early spring
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As an experienced and respected professional florist, Róisín Godfrey has spent the last eight years working alongside some of the biggest names in the industry in the UK and Ireland, a career that has taken her to some of the most beautiful private houses, hotels and art galleries in the world.
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