Care of the shrub Helichrysum splendidum or Cape gold |
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The genus Helichrysum, family Asteraceae, comprises 600 species of shrubs and herbaceous plants native to Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa. Some species are: Helichrysum splendidum, Helichrysum teretifolium, Helichrysum petiolare, Helichrysum cymosum, Helichrysum bracteatum, Helichrysum italicum, Helichrysum patulum, Helichrysum rupestre, Helichrysum saxatile. Common names: Cape gold, Sun-flower. This species is native to Southern and Eastern Africa. They are fast-growing shrubs that reach 1.5 meters (4.92 feet) in height. They have stems covered with fine whitish hairs and aromatic silver-gray leaves. The flowers are yellow and appear at the tips of erect stems. They bloom from mid-summer to late fall; they keep the flowers until winter. They are used in mixed borders, in rockeries, to cover slopes and as a dried flower for floral decorations. Helichrysum splendidum needs full sun exposure and warm weather. It does not resist frost. The soil must be very well drained. They can grow in poor soils but are grateful that they contain organic matter. They are very resistant to drought plants. Water occasionally, waiting for the substrate to dry completely. Fertilize with compost in early spring. Prune lightly in early spring to maintain a compact demeanor. They are easy to grow plants and very resistant to the usual pests and diseases. They propagate from seeds sown in spring or by cuttings from new shoots that have not flowered. |
Images of the shrub Helichrysum splendidum or Cape gold |
 Helichrysum splendidum  Helichrysum splendidum  Helichrysum splendidum |