Care of the shrub Helichrysum cymosum or Licorice Plant |
The genus Helichrysum, family Asteraceae, comprises 600 species of shrubs and herbaceous plants native to Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa. Some species are: Helichrysum cymosum, Helichrysum teretifolium, Helichrysum splendidum, Helichrysum petiolare, Helichrysum bracteatum, Helichrysum italicum, Helichrysum patulum, Helichrysum rupestre, Helichrysum saxatile. Common names: Licorice Plant, Liquorice plant, Gold carpet. This species is native to South Africa. They are highly branched, covering subshrubs that reach 50 cm (19.68") in height. The stems are whitish in color and the small aromatic leaves are covered with fine silver-gray hairs on the upper side. The showy yellow flowers appear in tight terminal groups. They can bloom several times a year. These fast growing plants are used in borders, in aromatic plant gardens, to cover dry areas of the garden, in pots for balconies and terraces. Licorice Plant is ideal for gardens by the sea due to their resistance to salinity. Helichrysum cymosum can be grown in full sun or light shade exposure. It does not resist frost. The soil must be very well drained; Liquorice plant can grow in sandy and poor substrates. Gold carpet needs moderate watering, waiting for the substrate to dry completely. Helichrysum cymosum does not need fertilizers. Prune after flowering to keep it compact. Licorice Plant is an easy to grow plant and resistant to pests and diseases. Gold carpet propagates from seeds sown in spring or autumn or from cuttings; root in a mixture of sand and compost. |
Imagen of the shrub Helichrysum cymosum or Licorice Plant |