Helichrysum stoechas
Family: Asteraceae or Compositae
What it is like
Helichrysum stoechas is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.
Height (m): 0.5
Where it is found
Dry banks, rocks and sands.
S. and W. Europe.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The stem tops and the flowers are deobstruent and expectorant. They have been used in the treatment of colds but their use is now considered to be obsolete. The flowers have been used as diaphoretics and discutients.
Deobstruent: Clears obstructions from the natural ducts of the body.
Diaphoretic: Induces perspiration.
Emollient: Softens the skin, causing warmth and moisture.
Expectorant: Clears phlegm from the chest by inducing coughing.
Other
Rating:
Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent
How it is grown
Requires a light well-drained soil in a sunny sheltered position. Intolerant of excessive moisture. Established plants are drought resistant. This species is not hardy in the colder areas of the country, it tolerates temperatures down to about -10°c. An aromatic plant with beautiful foliage, there are several named varieties, selected for their ornamental value. Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer.
Propagating it: Seed - sow February/March in a greenhouse. The seed usually germinates in 2 - 3 weeks at 20°c. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 5cm with a heel, June/July in a frame. Roots in 4 weeks. Good percentage.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 7-10
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist