Helichrysum

Dried helichrysum flowers

Helichrysum, also known as immortelle, are plants belonging to the Asteraceae family. In Poland, only one species occurs naturally – Helichrysum arenarium. However, it should be remembered that these plants are partially protected, which means that they cannot be collected without permission. On the other hand, Xerochrysum (formerly Helichrysum bracteatum) from Australia, which has been decorating flower beds for years, is very popular. This species does not have excessive environmental requirements, which is why it has also spread to Asia, Africa and Europe. While in other regions of the world garden everlastings are known as perennials, in our country they are grown as annuals. A characteristic feature of both is that they are ideal for drying and decorating bouquets of dried flowers. The plants contain very little water, so they do not lose their shape or natural colour when dried. All products available in our shop come from Polish or European crops.

What does helichrysum look like?

Helichrysum arenarium is a perennial plant that develops shoots growing from rhizomes and reaching up to 2 metres in height, which become woody after some time. They are covered with narrow, downy leaves. Small yellow flowers appear at the tops of the stems, gathered in umbellate inflorescences.

The situation is completely different in the case of Xerochrysum (formerly Helichrysum bracteatum). Unlike dwarf everlast, its shoots do not exceed 1 metre in height. Garden helichrysum is characterised by an upright, spreading habit. It has branched shoots, at the tops of which flowers gathered in baskets develop in summer. The flowers are single, not clustered in umbels, but much larger. The stems of the plants are hollow inside, making them ideal for drying. They can grow up to 100 cm in height. The leaves are inconspicuous, lanceolate and dark green in colour. However, it is the flowers of Xerochrysum that catch the eye, as they can take on various colours: from white, through yellow and orange, to red, pink and even brown. The petals are dry and rustling. The diameter of the flower heads can reach up to 8 cm. It is worth noting that the cultivation of botanical varieties of helichrysum was largely promoted in Germany in the 19th century. Thanks to this, we can enjoy their diversity today

Everlasting flowers in natural conditions and in cultivation

Dwarf everlasts are the only representatives of the species found in Poland in natural conditions. They are found in dry and sunny locations. They grow in meadows and wasteland, forest edges and slopes. They are also common in mountainous areas. They are increasingly found in gardens, especially in rockeries. However, it is worth noting that sand everlastings are partially protected in our country. Specimens used in floristry do not come from nature, but from specialised cultivation. In nature, they are yellow in colour, which can be very bright, even neon or honey-coloured. They can be dyed various colours – white, pink , lilac or blue.

Under natural conditions, xerochrysum grows in sandy areas of Australia. As it is drought-resistant, it thrives in sunny locations. It has no special soil requirements and grows well even in nutrient-poor soil. In Poland, helichrysum is grown in home gardens. To provide them with conditions as close as possible to their natural environment, it is worth preparing a sunny spot for them. Helichrysum grows best in well-drained, moderately fertile soil. It is important to ensure that the soil is sufficiently moist, but not overwatered. They do not tolerate waterlogging. It is also recommended to remove weeds regularly. Otherwise, they may weaken the growth of helichrysum.

Helichrysum plants are perfect for both rustic and modern gardens. They can also be grown in pots. The plants are propagated from seeds, which are sown directly into the soil in mid-May. Helichrysum germinates after about 7-10 days. The flowering period lasts from mid-July to the end of October. Helichrysum for dry bouquets is harvested when the petals are slightly open, but the centre of the flower is not yet visible. It is best to cut the plants in the morning on warm, rainless days.

The use of helichrysum

Helichrysum arenarium flowers are used in medicine. They are mainly used in the production of drugs with choleretic, cholagogue and antispasmodic effects on the walls of the gallbladder. Medicines containing sand everlasting extract can also be used to treat urinary tract disorders. They have a beneficial effect on stomach function. They contain substances that help treat stomach and liver disorders. It is worth noting that sand everlasting is also used in cosmetology.

On the other hand, xerochrysum is typically an ornamental plant. It is most valued after drying. It looks wonderful in bouquets, wreaths and other dried flower decorations. Its advantage is its variety of colours. This makes it easy to match helichrysum to the colour scheme of a composition. The plants look beautiful with gypsophila, lunaria, linum and nigella, among others. They also make a beautiful duo with dried grains. The decorative possibilities of xerochrysum are truly endless. These plants encourage experimentation and the creation of original bouquets to decorate homes, flats and public buildings. Dried immortelle flowers can last for many years, delighting with their charm and providing a fantastic, natural decoration for any space.

Dried helichrysum in floristry

Due to their subtle appearance, helichrysums are highly valued by florists. These plants are perfect for creating a variety of compositions. Specimens in their natural yellow colour give them a rustic character. White, pink and blue ones, on the other hand, are perfect for modern bouquets. They can also be a great decoration for christenings, communions, baby showers or gender reveals. Interestingly, sand everlastings look beautiful on their own, especially when placed in a low vase. They can be combined with dried grasses and grains. When combined with exotic dried species and preserved plants, such as eucalyptus, they can create original, modern compositions that delight with their colour and shape.

Dried xerochrysum provides even more floral inspiration. These plants look beautiful in various bouquets – for special occasions and even weddings. They can be used to create decorations for homes, restaurants, hotels and function rooms. The plants are also an irreplaceable floral material for Easter palms and harvest wreaths. They are very durable – under the right conditions, they retain their original appearance for a long time. What's more, dried helichrysum are available in the form of heads only, which will be appreciated by handicraft enthusiasts. In this form, they can be embedded in resin, used to decorate greeting cards or added to various handmade works.

Which dried flowers can be combined with dried helichrysum? 

Regardless of the fact that garden helichrysum looks great on its own, there is nothing to prevent you from combining it with other dried flowers – mainly native ones. When combined with dried grasses and grains, they can be used to create a rustic composition. They can also be paired with lagurus to create a bouquet with a modern touch and a light, delicate appearance. Garden helichrysum also goes well with nigella and dried ruscus leaves.

What kind of decorations are dried helichrysum flowers suitable for?

• bouquets and small bouquets,
• decorations in vases and dishes 
• head wreaths
• door and table wreaths  
• decorative arrangements
• macramé accessories
• stationery, invitation and place card decorations
• resin product and jewellery accessories
• candle decorations
• 3D floral paintings and framed flowers
• compositions under glass domes
• props for photo shoots 
• floral scenery and photo sets 
• creative shipping 

Helichrysum at Blosmi

Blosmi offers both types of helichrysum flowers. Dwarf everlast grows to a height of 35 to 40 cm. We offer them in generous bunches weighing approximately 70-80 g. Xerochrysum flowers have the same height and weight. In this case, each bunch contains about 30 branches topped with beautiful, full flowers. It is worth noting that our offer includes immortelle flower heads, available in sets of approx. 70 flowers with a diameter of 2 to 4.5 cm. All plants are carefully packed and secured for transport.