Curry plant
Helichrysum italicum

Family: Asteraceae

What it is like

A plant which keeps growing from year to year. It grows to 45 cm high. It can spread 50 cm wide. The leaves are silver-grey in colour. They are narrow and have a few hairs. The leaves are 30 mm long. The flowers are small and white to yellow. They occur in heads in small clusters. These are 15-80 mm across. The involucre of the bracts is dull yellow and oblong.

There have been 500 Helichrysum species but these may be regrouped.

Where it is found

It is a warm temperate plant. It does well on a sandy soil. It needs a sunny soil. It can stand coastal exposure. In Hobart Botanical gardens. It suits hardiness zones 8-10.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Australia, Balkans, Croatia, Europe, France, Greece, Hawaii, Italy, Mediterranean, North Africa, Pacific, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Tasmania, USA

How it is used for food

The leaves have a curry flavour. They are finely chopped and added to scrambled eggs. They are used to season meat, fish and potatoes. Flower heads are used for tea. An essential oil extract is used to enhance fruit flavours in ice cream, candies and soft drinks.

Edible parts

Leaves for flavouring, flower heads - tea, herb

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed. The temperature needs to be at least 13-16°C. It can be grown by basal cuttings. The plant can be pruned back.

Its other names

Local names

Laški smilj, Smilj

Synonyms

Gnaphalium glutinosum Ten.; Gnaphalium italicum Roth; Helichrysum angustifolium (Lamarck) A.P. de Candolle; ? Helichrysum italicum var. serotina (Boiss.) O. Bolos & Vigo; Helichrysum numidicum Pomel;