About
A genus of evergreen shrubs or small trees from tropical and subtropical regions, principally Africa and Asia, with simple, elliptic to broadly ovate, often glossy, dark green leaves and small, urn- or bell-shaped, male and female flowers on the same or separate plants, followed by fleshy, sweet, edible fruits that include the persimmon (D. kaki) and date plum (D. lotus). Several species are grown as ornamental trees and for their edible fruits.
About the genus
Helichrysum can be annuals, herbaceous or evergreen perennials or shrubs, usually with grey-hairy foliage and papery everlasting flower-heads
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Shrubs
HabitMatforming, Trailing
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden, Hanging basket
Care notes
CultivationGrow in gritty, sharply drained soil in full sun. Protect from cold drying winds, hard frosts and winter wet. Ideal for a rockery or alpine house
PruningMinimal pruning required, trim lightly after flowering to maintain shape
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown in an open frame as soon as ripe, or by semi-ripe cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay 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