Origin and Common Names
The plant Helichrysum sesamoides (L.) Willd. var. fasciculatum (Andrews) Harv. is native to South Africa and is commonly known by several names including the clustered everlasting and strawflower. It is a member of the Asteraceae family which includes over 32,000 species of flowering plants.
General Appearance
The clustered everlasting is a small, perennial herb that grows up to 50cm in height. The plant has woody stems that are covered in fine hairs and the leaves are oval-shaped and covered in a silvery-white woolly coating. The flowers are produced in dense clusters at the top of the stems and are small, yellow, and tubular with a papery texture. The plant is highly drought-resistant and is adapted to dry, sandy soils.
Uses
The clustered everlasting has been used for its medicinal properties by the indigenous people of South Africa for many years. The plant is used to treat a variety of ailments including colds, coughs, and digestive problems. The crushed leaves of the plant are also applied externally to wounds and burns to promote healing. The plant is also valued as an ornamental plant and is often used in floral arrangements due to its bright yellow papery flowers which retain their color even after drying.
Light Requirements
Helichrysum sesamoides var. fasciculatum grows best in full sun exposure. It requires at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day to thrive. Insufficient light may result in poor growth, abnormal flowering, and stunted growth. Hence, it is recommended to place the plant in a location with unobstructed sunlight exposure.
Temperature Requirements
Helichrysum sesamoides var. fasciculatum prefers warm to hot temperatures. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of about 7°C and a maximum temperature of about 35°C. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 20°C and 30°C. Exposure to temperatures below the tolerated range can damage the plant and hinder its growth and development.
Soil Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. However, it performs best in well-draining soils that are enriched with organic matter. Soil pH should range from neutral to slightly acidic (6.0-7.0) for optimal growth. The use of fertilizers should be sparingly, preferably at the beginning of the growing season, as excessive amounts can lead to foliar accumulation of salts.
Cultivation
The Helichrysum sesamoides (L.) Willd. var. fasciculatum (Andrews) Harv., commonly known as the bitter everlasting, is a hardy perennial plant that is native to South Africa. It is an excellent addition to any garden due to its attractive yellow flowers, which bloom from spring to summer.
For optimal growth, plant your Helichrysum sesamoides in a sunny location with well-draining soil. The plant typically grows up to 45 cm tall and can spread up to 30 cm, so ensure enough space is provided between each plant. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.5.
Watering Needs
The Helichrysum sesamoides plant prefers moderate watering. It is essential to ensure the soil is always moist, but not waterlogged; this can lead to root rot. In summer months, the plant will need more water than in colder months.
The plant can tolerate some drought and heat, but it is crucial to check the soil regularly to avoid dehydration. Remember to water at the base of the plant and avoid getting water on the foliage; this can lead to fungal infections.
Fertilization
The Helichrysum sesamoides plant doesn't require excessive fertilization. Half a cup of general-purpose fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 NPK, applied to the soil in the spring, is enough for the growing season. Avoid overfeeding your plant; this can lead to an excessive amount of foliage growth and fewer flowers.
The use of organic compost or mulch in the soil will provide the plant with the necessary nutrients, improve water retention in the soil, and control weed growth.
Pruning
Pruning is crucial to prevent the plant from growing too tall, looking untidy, and promoting bushier growth. Prune back about half of the stem length every autumn. This encourages new growth in the spring and helps the plant maintain a compact and tidy appearance.
Deadheading the spent flowers as they appear on the plant will also encourage new blooms and prevent the plant from self-seeding.
Propagation of Helichrysum sesamoides var. fasciculatum
Helichrysum sesamoides var. fasciculatum can be propagated through several methods including seeds, cuttings, and stem division.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest and most common method of propagating Helichrysum sesamoides var. fasciculatum is by seeds. The seeds should be sown in trays or pots filled with well-draining soil mix. The ideal time to sow the seeds is in early spring. The trays should be placed in a warm and bright location and kept moist until the seedlings emerge. The seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots once they have developed true leaves and have grown strong enough to handle.
Propagation by Cuttings
Helichrysum sesamoides var. fasciculatum can also be propagated through cuttings. Select a healthy shoot from the plant, preferably one that is not flowering. Cut a 10-15cm long piece from the end of the shoot and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept moist and in a well-lit location until roots start to form. The newly formed plant can be transplanted to a larger pot or planted in the garden.
Propagation by Stem Division
Propagation through stem division is another method that can be used for Helichrysum sesamoides var. fasciculatum. This method involves digging up the plant and gently separating the stem into smaller sections. Each section should have a good root system and several shoots. The sections can be replanted in individual pots or directly in the garden in well-draining soil. They should be watered thoroughly and kept moist until they are established.
Disease Management
Helichrysum sesamoides (L.) Willd. var. fasciculatum (Andrews) Harv. is generally a hardy plant that does not suffer from many diseases. However, some common diseases that may affect the plant include:
- Root rot: This disease is caused by various types of fungi that attack the plant's roots, leading to wilting, yellowing of leaves, and ultimately, death of the plant. To manage this disease, it is important to avoid overwatering the plant and to ensure good drainage. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Rust: This fungal disease appears as yellow or orange spots on the leaves, stem, and flowers of the plant. It is caused by humidity and poor air circulation. To prevent rust, ensure proper air circulation and remove infected plant parts immediately. Applying a fungicide may also help in managing the disease.
Pest Management
Helichrysum sesamoides (L.) Willd. var. fasciculatum (Andrews) Harv. is generally not a very attractive plant to pests, but some common pests that may affect the plant include:
- Aphids: These are tiny, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from plant leaves causing curling, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage aphids, you can spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap. You can also introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs or lacewings, that feed on aphids.
- Spider mites: These are tiny, eight-legged pests that feed on plant sap and cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. To manage spider mites, keep the plant well-hydrated and increase humidity levels around the plant. You can also spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap to kill the mites.
