Helichrysum

False Curry Plant
(Helichrysum italicum, Helichrysum angustifolium)
Other Names - Curry Plant, Immortelle, Everlasting Flower
Origins - Southern Europe, and the Mediterranean.
Type
Perennial (evergreen).
Hardiness (see References, below) - Zones 7-9.
Bloom - Summer.
Height
Approx. up to 2 ft (60 cm).
Cultivation
This plant loves Sun, but will also grow in semi-shaded locations in light, well drained soils. While Helichrysum italicum does not like excessive amounts of moisture, it is
drought tolerant. For compact

shape, prune in late Winter, and early Spring (before new growth emerges).
Propagation - By stem cuttings, by division, and by seeds.
Other - While not related to true Curry (Murraya koenigii), Helichrysum italicum's deep aroma does
match well that of curry spice. Most of sources I came across state that this plant is hardy for zones 8-9. I cultivate it for the last 4

years in the middle of zone 7, and it does rather well. Cold, late Winter chills we had this year went temporarily down to 10F, and while other plants such as Gardenia, and Fig suffered pretty badly, our Curry
plant did really well. Both, attractive, soft silver foliage and mellow-yellow blooms are aromatic, and their essential oil has application in perfumery and commercial drinks, and

foods production. Blooms dry well, and are useful in potpourri, and other floral arrangements. They are also used to make herbal teas. Leaves are good for adding curry aroma to rice, vegetable, cheese, egg, and mayonnaise dishes. Plant's essential oil is anti-inflammatory, and anti fungicidal, which makes it useful in soothing various skin conditions.
Back to JULY - FLORA, NOW page
Feedback
contact.tcg.now@gmail.com
References - Find more about Hardiness Zones
Special Thanks
Special Thanks to Town & Country Gardens Contributors: blogger, bulabean, dive-angel (Karin), Eric M Martin, flickr, Jasmine&Roses, Luciano Lema, Rita Crane Photography. Rita Crane, daughter of LIFE magazine photographer Ralph Crane. Her work can be seen on Flickr at Rita Crane Photography or on her website., TMR Davies, Wikipedia, W.D. Williams