Overview
Helichrysum italicum microphyllum is a plant with a bushy, spreading branched habit in the genus Helichrysum, part of the Asteraceae family, with evergreen foliage. Helichrysum italicum microphyllum grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include coastal, cottage and informal garden, gravel garden, mediterranean climate plants and patio and container plants.
About
Helichrysum italicum microphyllum is an evergreen, spreading-branched member of the Asteraceae that produces clusters of yellow flowers from June to September. It prefers full sun and freely draining soils such as chalk, loam or sand with a neutral to alkaline pH. Sit it on a south- or west-facing spot where exposure may be either sheltered or open. The plant carries a multi-stemmed habit and suits gravel, coastal and Mediterranean-style planting as well as containers.
About the genus
The genus Helichrysum consists of an estimated 600 species of flowering plants in the sunflower family (Asteraceae). The type species is Helichrysum orientale. They often go by the names everlasting, immortelle, and strawflower.
Wikipedia contributors, "Helichrysum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Helichrysum
In the garden
Helichrysum italicum microphyllum sits within the Asteraceae and is grown for its evergreen foliage, spreading branched form and summer flower clusters (June to September). It is suited to Mediterranean-style and gravel gardens and is commonly used in coastal, cottage and informal schemes, plus patios and containers where a sun-facing position is available. Choose a full-sun site on a south- or west-facing aspect and plant into chalk, loam or sandy soil that drains freely; a neutral to alkaline pH is preferred. The species tolerates both exposed and sheltered exposures and carries a UK hardiness rating of H4 (average), so it will withstand typical winters provided the crown does not sit in poorly drained ground. In heavy soils, plant in a raised bed or add grit to improve drainage. For containers use a free-draining potting mix with added grit and place on a sunny patio; move tubs to a more sheltered spot only in prolonged severe cold. Lightly trim shoots after flowering to keep a compact outline and clear away winter debris so crowns remain dry. Its combination of sun tolerance and preference for free-draining, alkaline soils makes it a practical choice for gravel borders and Mediterranean-themed planting in the UK.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Helichrysum
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Helichrysum italicum microphyllum size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Bushy, Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Helichrysum italicum microphyllum
- Propagation
- Semi-ripe cuttings in summer
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to honey fungus, downy mildews, powdery mildews
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Helichrysum italicum microphyllum?
Helichrysum italicum microphyllum prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Helichrysum italicum microphyllum need?
Helichrysum italicum microphyllum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Helichrysum italicum microphyllum hardy in the UK?
Helichrysum italicum microphyllum has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Helichrysum italicum microphyllum?
Semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
