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Herbaceous Perennial

Helichrysum italicum

curry plant

A small bushy evergreen sub-shrub with linear, silvery-grey, curry-scented leaves, and small yellow flowerheads in domed clusters

Synonyms
Helichrysum rupestre misapplied
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Grey Silver
Summer Yellow Grey Silver
Autumn Grey Silver
Winter Grey Silver
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or East–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Helichrysum can be annuals, herbaceous or evergreen perennials or shrubs, usually with grey-hairy foliage and papery everlasting flower-heads

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Mediterranean

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in a poor to moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun. Protect from winter wet and cold dry winds

Propagation

Propagate by rooting semi-hardwood cuttings of shrubby species in summer and overwinter in frost-free conditions

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Gravel garden
  • Prairie planting
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Pruning group 10 in spring

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus in gardens where it is present but insufficient data to determine degree of susceptibility. May also be susceptible to downy mildews and powdery mildews

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