Helichrysum bracteatum is the most well known and is probably the best of all the everlasting flowers. It is the cut flower grower's staple, producing tall vigorous branching plants that are filled with large papery flowers.

The substantial 5cm (2in) wide deep purple-red blooms are held atop strong multi-branching bright green stems. The flowers are perfect for cutting, they have a subtle silky sheen and are striking in all stages, from bud to fully opened.

Helichrysum bracteatum grow to around 3ft (90cm ) tall. They are easy to cultivate and established plants grow well with little or no attention. The flowers bloom from mid-summer right up to frost, they prefer a position in full sun and will do well in poor to average soils. They tolerate heat and drought conditions and they can survive light frosts.

In the greenhouse, the plants will bloom non-stop from ten weeks after sowing and will continue to flower until frost gets to them in late autumn.

Helichrysum make one of the finest subjects for bouquets, apart from being useful for beds and borders. They are also an excellent dried flower, the papery flowers give an excellent natural colour.

Known as an 'everlasting' because the flowers will last indefinitely when dried. Both the colour and shape will last indefinitely.

100 seeds

Full growing instructions are sent with each order.