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Helichrysum italicum

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Helichrysum italicum G. Don f.

Family Name: Asteraceae (Compositae)
Common Name: Immortelle

Name

Family Name
Genus Epithet
Species Epithet
Name Authority
Common Names

Classifications and Characteristics

Plant Growth Form Herbaceous Plant

Biogeography

Native Habitat Terrestrial
Preferred Climate Zone Mediterranean

Description and Ethnobotany

Growth Form Perennial herb up to 45 cm tall.
Foliage The narrow, linear leaves are densely arranged in pairs along a silvery stem.
Cultivation The plant can be encouraged to produce larger flowers by removing most of the flower buds. Plant in well-drained soil which should be allowed to dry slightly between watering.
Etymology Although this species is sometimes commonly referred to as the curry plant, it is not the true plant which is used to make curries and botanically known as Murraya koenigii. 
Ethnobotanical Uses Medicinal: The essential oil is thought to have anti-inflammation, antibacterial, anti-fungal and antioxidant activity.
Cut - Dried Flower: The leaves can be used to make wreaths or garlands, while the flowers remain bright yellow after being dried.

Landscaping Features

Desirable Plant Features Ornamental Foliage
Landscape Uses Container Planting
Thematic Landscaping Silver Garden

Plant Care and Propagation

Light Preference Full Sun, Semi-Shade
Water Preference Little Water
Rootzone Tolerance Drought Tolerant, Well-Drained Soils

Foliar

Foliage Retention Evergreen
Mature Foliage Colour(s) Silver / Grey
Foliar Type Simple / Unifoliate
Foliar Arrangement Along Stem Opposite
Foliar Attachment to Stem Sessile
Foliar Shape(s) Non-Palm Foliage
Foliar Venation Pinnate / Net
Foliar Margin Entire
Foliar Apex - Tip Rounded
Foliar Base Cuneate

Floral (Angiosperm)

Flower Colour(s) Yellow / Golden
Flower Grouping Cluster / Inflorescence

Image Repository

Images

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Master ID 33651
Species ID 8065
Flora Disclaimer The information in this website has been compiled from reliable sources, such as reference works on medicinal plants. It is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment and NParks does not purport to provide any medical advice. Readers should always consult his/her physician before using or consuming a plant for medicinal purposes.
Species record last updated on: 26 August 2021.
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