Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Helichrysum crispum or Woolly Everlasting

The genus Helichrysum, family Asteraceae, comprises 600 species of shrubs and herbaceous plants native to Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa. Some species are: Helichrysum crispum, Helichrysum teretifolium, Helichrysum splendidum, Helichrysum petiolare, Helichrysum cymosum, Helichrysum bracteatum, Helichrysum italicum, Helichrysum patulum, Helichrysum rupestre, Helichrysum saxatile.

Common names: Woolly Everlasting, Hottentot's Bedding. This species is native to South Africa.

Helichrysum crispum is a low, spreading perennial shrub with woolly stems that reaches 1 metre (3.28 feet) in height. The aromatic, small leaves are greyish green. The yellowish flowers appear in terminal clusters above the leaves. It blooms in spring and early summer.

Woolly Everlasting is used in rockeries, in borders, to cover dry, sunny slopes, to secure banks and in pots for patios and terraces. It is ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens. It attracts butterflies and bees.

Helichrysum crispum needs full sun exposure and a warm, dry climate. It resists frost and intense heat well.

It is very important that the soil is well drained; Hottentot's Bedding prefers sandy soil. Transplanting is done at the beginning of summer.

Woolly Everlasting is a drought-resistant plant that needs occasional watering, waiting for the substrate to be completely dry.

Fertilize once in early spring with mineral fertilizer although it is not strictly necessary.

Prune in late winter to strengthen the plant and maintain a compact shape.

Helichrysum crispum is a plant resistant to common pests and diseases.

Woolly Everlasting propagates quite easily by division in summer.

Images of the shrub Helichrysum crispum or Woolly Everlasting