Strawflower Growing Guide

What is Strawflower?

Strawflower (Xerochrysum bracteantha) also known as the Golden Everlasting, Paper Daisy, Immortelle or Xerochrysum is a flowering short lived perennial. It is part of the Asteraceae family and is native to Australia. Many hybrids have been developed over the years and this plant does vary greatly in form from low growing types to taller plants. There are also annual varieties available. Strawflower varies in habit from a compact small shrub to a prostrate ground cover. Foliage will also vary from thin green to green grey foliage to bright lush green boarder leaves. Flowering time is from Spring into Summer with colourful displays of papery textured flowers. The papery texture is accurately the bracts that are around the outside and the small flowers forming a cluster in the center. Strawflowers come in a range of bright vibrant colours of yellow, orange, red, pink or white with yellow centers. They prefer a full sun position in the garden and will tolerate light frosts.

Benefits of Growing Strawflower

Strawflower are fast growing, low maintenance plants.  They are suitable for garden beds, rockeries, containers and they will look great in hanging baskets. Strawflower are wonderful for using as a cut flower, and are perfect for drying where they retain their colour and shape for a very long time. The flowers attract butterflies, moths and many other beneficial insects into the garden.

How to Grow Strawflower

Xerochrysum Strawberry Blonde

Climatic Zones

Cool, temperate, arid, semi arid.

Plant Size

Height: 20cm-1.5m, Width: 30cm-1m depending on variety

When To Plant Strawflower

Plant in late Winter to early Spring. If growing by seeds, sow in Autumn or Spring.

Soil Preparation

Strawflower prefer a well draining moist and fertile soil, but will also grow in sandy and rocky soils.

How To Plant Strawflower

Plant in full sun, with the plant crown at soil level. Spacing will vary depending on variety.

Strawflower Plant Care

Water regularly when rainfall isn’t sufficient.

Annually use a slow release fertiliser suited to native plants.

The occasional light pruning of the taller varieties will help to keep their shape.

Strawflower White

Strawflower Yellow

Strawflower Orange