Strawflower, Paper Daisy (Xerochrysum bracteatum)

Strawflower (Xerochrysum bracteatum), also called paper daisy, everlasting daisy, or golden everlasting, is an Australian native in the Asteraceae family. It's grown for its colorful, papery, long-lasting bracts that retain color and shape when dried.

Description

Annual or short-lived perennial 2–3 feet tall. Leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, gray-green, slightly woolly. Flower heads are 1–2 inches across, with a central disk of tiny true flowers surrounded by stiff, papery bracts in yellow, orange, red, pink, white, or bicolors. Bracts feel dry and crisp even fresh. Blooms summer to frost.

Growing Conditions

• Zones: 8–10 as perennial; grown as annual everywhere.
• Light: Full sun.
• Soil: Well-drained, average to poor. Rich soil promotes foliage over flowers.
• Water: Low; drought-tolerant. Avoid wet feet.
• Temperature: Heat-tolerant.

Care & Maintenance

Deadhead for continuous bloom. Cut stems for drying just before fully open; hang upside down in dark, airy place. No fertilizer needed. Direct-sow after frost or start indoors.

Uses

Cut flowers (fresh and dried), everlasting arrangements, wreaths, potpourri. Borders, cutting gardens, containers. Attracts pollinators.

Potential Issues

Root rot in wet soil. Powdery mildew in humid conditions. Aphids. Generally tough and productive.

A florist's favorite for dried work—grow your own rainbow of eternal blooms.