How to Grow Strawflower
Xerochrysum bracteatum
Strawflowers are half-hardy annuals that thrive in full sun and well-drained, even poor, soil. Sow indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost and plant out once all frost risk has passed. They are extremely drought tolerant once established — avoid overwatering. Deadhead regularly for continuous colour, or harvest stems for drying when the outer petals just open and the centre is still closed. Rich soil and overfeeding produce leafy plants with fewer flowers.
When to Start
Sow indoors 4 weeks before last frost, or direct sow outdoors after frost risk has passed and soil reaches 10°C.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Light feeding only. Thrives in well-drained, even poor soil — rich soil produces lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
- Classic everlasting flower, prized for dried arrangements. Extremely drought tolerant once established. Thrives in full sun and poor, well-drained soil.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 10°C+
- Germination temperature
- 18–22°C
- Sow indoors
- —
- Transplant out
- —
- First harvest
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 25 cm |
| Row spacing | 35 cm |
| Sow depth | 0 cm |
| Mature height | 60 cm |
| Mature spread | 30 cm |
Half-hardy annual grown for cutting and drying. Space evenly for good air circulation and to reduce mildew risk. Closer spacing can increase stem length.
Pests & Diseases
Pest Aphids
Identification: Clusters of small green or black insects on shoot tips and flower buds, causing distorted growth and sticky honeydew
- Blast off with a strong jet of water
- Spray with fatty acid-based insecticide
- Encourage ladybirds, lacewings and hoverflies
- Spray with a contact insecticide containing deltamethrin or lambda-cyhalothrin
Pest Slugs and Snails
Identification: Irregular holes in young leaves and slime trails around plants, worst in wet weather
- Use beer traps or copper tape barriers
- Apply organic slug pellets (ferric phosphate)
- Encourage natural predators such as hedgehogs and ground beetles
- Ferric phosphate-based pellets
Disease Powdery Mildew
Symptoms: White powdery coating on leaves and stems, causing yellowing and reduced vigour
Treatment: Remove badly affected leaves. Spray with a fungicide if severe
Prevention: Space plants well for good airflow, avoid overhead watering, and do not overwater
Disease Grey Mould (Botrytis)
Symptoms: Grey fuzzy mould on stems, leaves or flowers, especially in cool wet conditions
Treatment: Remove and destroy affected material immediately. Improve air circulation around plants
Prevention: Avoid overhead watering, space plants adequately, and do not overwater. Remove dead or dying plant material promptly
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 10°C |
| Germination temperature | 18–22°C |
| Base growth temperature | 8°C |
| Min. daylength to start | 11h |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | day neutral |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Strawflower?
- Plant Strawflower 25cm apart with 35cm between rows.
- When does Strawflower flower?
- Strawflower typically flowers approximately 70 days after transplanting.
- Is Strawflower frost hardy?
- Strawflower is classified as Half Hardy.
