Xerochrysum bracteatum

Sowing tips and seasonal timing

Xerochrysum bracteatum seeds establish best in full sun and well-drained, moderately fertile soil, avoiding waterlogging. Start indoors before the last frost; transplant or direct sow after frost has passed, with autumn sowing possible in mild, frost-free climates. Sow thinly on the surface and barely cover, keeping the medium evenly moist but not wet. Provide bright light and good airflow, hardening off seedlings before planting out. Space plants to allow air circulation, following packet guidance, as most grow to a medium-tall habit. Water deeply but infrequently, letting the top layer of soil dry between waterings. Light deadheading can extend the display and help manage self-seeding.

• Timing: start indoors before last frost; transplant or direct sow after last frost; autumn sowing in mild, frost-free climates.
• Soil and spacing: free-draining mix; allow airflow and follow packet spacing guidance.
• Container suitable: grows well in pots with reliable drainage.
• Pollinator friendly: blooms may attract visiting pollinating insects.
• Ornamental: valued for long-lasting, papery flowers in a wide range of colours.

How do you grow Xerochrysum bracteatum (strawflower) from seed?

Sow seeds on the surface or barely cover with a dusting of fine vermiculite, as light aids germination. Start indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost using a free-draining seed mix; keep evenly moist and warm until germination in about 7–14 days, then provide bright light. Prick out into individual cells, grow on cool and bright, and harden off before planting out after frost into full sun and well-drained soil. You can also direct sow after the last frost when soil warms. Pinch seedlings at 10–15 cm to encourage branching; avoid rich feeding that reduces flowering.

When should strawflower seeds be sown in relation to frost?

Start indoors before the last frost to gain early blooms, transplanting only once frost risk has fully passed and nights are mild. Direct sow outdoors after the last frost when the soil is workable and warming. In mild, frost-free climates, autumn sowing can establish plants for earlier displays. For a longer season, make a couple of succession sowings a few weeks apart, and avoid sowing into cold, waterlogged ground.

What soil and sun do strawflower plants prefer?

Strawflowers thrive in full sun for 6–8 or more hours daily and in well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Sandy or gritty loams suit them well; avoid waterlogging and heavy clay by amending with coarse sand or fine gravel, or use raised beds in wet sites. Aim for neutral to slightly acidic conditions. Overly rich soils can give abundant foliage but fewer blooms. Water deeply but let the top layer dry between waterings, and use a light, breathable mulch without burying crowns.

What spacing and routine care do strawflower plants need?

Space plants about 25–35 cm apart to promote airflow; medium-tall varieties can reach 60–90 cm and may need discreet staking in windy spots. Water regularly while establishing; once rooted, they tolerate dry spells but flower best with steady, non-soggy moisture. Deadhead or cut stems for vases to prolong blooming, and feed lightly only if growth slows. Xerochrysum bracteatum is often grown as an annual; in frost-free, dry winters it may persist longer and can self-seed modestly. It pairs well with sun-loving, drought-tolerant herbs, salvias, and ornamental grasses, and its long bloom supports pollinators.

Can strawflower be grown in containers?

Yes. Choose a pot at least 25–30 cm wide with ample drainage holes and fill with a free-draining, peat-free mix blended with grit or perlite. Set in full sun and rotate occasionally for even growth. Water thoroughly, then allow the top few centimetres to dry before watering again; avoid letting containers sit in saucers of water. Feed sparingly during peak flowering. Plant one medium variety per 25–30 cm pot, or three in a large 40–45 cm container. Pinch early for bushiness and provide subtle supports in breezy locations.

What are the best tips for cutting and drying strawflowers for arrangements and crafts?

For fresh arrangements, harvest when the papery bracts are open but the central disc is still tight; cut in the cool of morning and remove lower leaves. For drying, pick just before full open, tie small bundles with elastic (stems shrink as they dry), and hang upside down in a dry, shaded, airy place; colours preserve best out of direct sun. Stems usually dry in 1–3 weeks; if needed, insert florist wire into the hollow stems after drying to strengthen them for wreaths and other crafts.

This growing guidance is compiled from horticultural best practice and intended as general information. Conditions vary by microclimate, soil type, exposure, and seasonal patterns; adjust spacing, watering, and timing to site conditions (for example, sow after last frost or when soil is workable; in mild climates autumn sowing may be possible). For specific varieties, product pages provide detailed, variety-level instructions aligned with each product’s characteristics.

Everlasting Strawflower Growing Guide

Xerochrysum bracteatum seeds produce durable blooms prized for fresh borders and long-lasting dried displays. Start indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost or direct sow when soil is warm and workable; in mild climates, autumn sowing may be possible. Surface sow onto a free-draining mix, as light aids germination; mist to settle, do not cover heavily. Maintain gentle warmth and bright light; seedlings typically appear in 7–14 days. Transplant after frost risk passes, spacing 25–30 cm in full sun and well-drained soil. Moderate fertility and infrequent, deep watering support sturdy stems; overly rich feeding encourages weak growth. Pinch young plants once to promote branching. Regular deadheading extends flowering, while stems cut just as papery bracts begin to open dry evenly for arrangements. Watch for waterlogging and overcrowding, which can invite mildew; ensure airflow. Reference: SeedsChoice.