Strawflower (Xerochrysum bracteatum), once widely listed as Helichrysum bracteatum, is an Australian member of the daisy family. What look like stiff petals are colourful, papery bracts around the small true flowers.
- Grow in full sun and moist but well-drained soil. Established plants handle brief dry weather, but new plants still need regular checks.
- Start indoors about five or six weeks before the usual final frost, or direct-sow after frost as the packet directs.
- Cultivars range from compact plants to stems about 3 feet (90 cm), so use the packet for spacing and support tall plants if needed.
- Cut stems for drying when heads are partly open; they continue opening a little as they dry.
- Hang small, loose bundles upside down in a dark, dry, ventilated place to preserve colour and prevent mould.
- Let selected heads mature fully if you want to save seed.
Strawflowers come in yellow, orange, red, pink, cream, and white—an impressive paintbox for a flower that already feels like paper.