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Helichrysum milfordiae

Milford everlasting flower

An evergreen perennial forming a compact mat comprised of rosettes of small silvery leaves. Solitary white everlasting flower-heads 2-3cm wide, deep crimson on reverse are borne on stems to 10cm in spring

Synonyms
Helichrysum marginatum misapplied
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Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cm
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Red White Grey Silver
Summer Grey Silver
Autumn Grey Silver
Winter Grey Silver
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Matforming
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
S. Africa

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, gritty, sharply drained soil in full sun. Protect from excessive winter wet

Propagation

Propagate by seed. Seed is best sown fresh as soon as ripe in the autumn or sow in spring. Divide in spring. Take single rosette cuttings in summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Rock garden
Pruning

Remove spent flowers and winter damaged stems

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

Get involved

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