(Helichrysum bracteatum) Annual. 85 days to maturity. The Sultane strawflower mix boasts a stunning blend of the long lasting, papery flowers. You’ll be delighted by coral, white, silvery rose, yellow, orange, bright pink and rusty red flowers, perfect for both fresh and dried arrangements. ------------------------------------ Growth Habit: Upright growth to 3 feet height on long, branching stems with 2-2.5” flowers. Trellis may be needed for horizontal support. Sun Requirements: Full sun Soil Preference: Average well-drained soil When to Plant: Direct seed after last frost OR start indoors 4-8 weeks before last frost How to Plant: Direct sow: sow seeds and cover lightly with soil. Keep the soil bed moist until germination. Thin young plants to 1 foot apart. Transplant: sow seeds indoors in flats or containers 4-8 weeks before last frost. Sow seeds on the soil surface and lightly tamp them without covering them. Seeds should germinate in 10-13 days. Transplant them into larger containers when true leaves appear. Harden off seedlings before transplanting after all risk of frost is passed. Space plants 1 foot apart. When to Harvest: Harvest Strawflower through Summer, and into Fall. Harvesting increases yield. Will tolerate light frost. How to Harvest: Harvest before flowers are fully opened. Deadhead regularly to extend flowering. Uses: Strawflowers are stunning and long-lasting in dried arrangements and also lovely in fresh arrangements. Flowers attract beneficial pollinators. Flowers also deter aphids.
