How to Grow Aberlasting
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Aberlasting
Helichrysum bracteatum
flowerAberlasting, also known as strawflower, is an annual ornamental flower prized for its papery, everlasting blooms that retain color and form even when dried. Native to Australia, it produces vibrant flowers in shades of red, pink, yellow, orange, and white on upright stems. These flowers are popular for fresh and dried arrangements, lasting months without wilting.
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Example Aberlasting timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Aberlasting
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Aberlasting blooms
Around Jun 26≈ 70 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Aberlasting dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 2-11; thrives as an annual nationwide; perennial in zones 9-11
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Germination
1-2 weeksSeeds germinate in 7-10 days under warm conditions. Small green cotyledons appear with fine, delicate leaves.
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Maintain temperature 70-75°F for best germination. Seeds need light to germinate, so do not cover completely.
Seedling & Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksTrue leaves develop and plants establish root system. Thin seedlings to proper spacing. Bushy foliage growth continues without flowering.
Provide bright light; leggy seedlings indicate insufficient light. Water when top inch of soil is dry. Begin hardening off 2 weeks before transplant if starting indoors.
Bud Formation
2-3 weeksFlower buds appear at stem tips. Tight, green papery bracts are visible before blooms open.
Pinch back stem tips early to encourage branching and more flowers. Reduce watering slightly. Staking may be needed for taller varieties. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
Flowering & Peak Bloom
6-8 weeks (continuous through season)Papery flower heads open in vivid colors. Flowers maintain perfect form for weeks. Multiple blooms per plant with successive flowering from mid-summer through frost.
Harvest flowers at any stage for drying. Regular harvesting or deadheading extends bloom period. Minimal fertilizer needed; too much causes weak growth.
Seed Production & Decline
4+ weeks through frostIf flowers are not harvested, plants develop seed heads. Foliage may decline as energy shifts to seed production.
Allow some flowers to remain for seed collection if desired. In mild climates, may rebloom into fall. Remove plants after hard frost in cold zones.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, spray with sulfur or neem oil if needed
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Increase humidity by misting, spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil, maintain consistent watering
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Remove affected flowers, use blue sticky traps, spray with neem oil or spinosad if severe
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Improve drainage, reduce watering frequency, remove affected plants, ensure good air circulation
Uses
Dried & Fresh Floral Arrangements
CraftAberlasting flowers are ideal for creating long-lasting dried arrangements and fresh bouquets. The papery texture and vibrant colors are prized by florists and crafters for their longevity and visual appeal. [source]
Natural Home Decoration
HouseholdDried Aberlasting flowers can be displayed in vases, wreaths, and garlands for months without wilting. They make excellent long-term decorations for homes and events. [source]
Pollinator Garden
WildlifeAberlasting attracts bees and butterflies, making it valuable for supporting pollinators in the garden. Fresh flowers provide nectar and pollen for beneficial insects. [source]
Edible Flowers
CulinaryCertain Aberlasting varieties have edible petals that can be used as garnish for salads, desserts, and beverages. They add color and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. [source]
Harvest Tips
Harvest flowers when fully open but still papery and fresh-looking for best drying results. Cut stems in early morning when stems are turgid. For dried arrangements, hang upside down in warm, dry, dark location with good air circulation for 1-2 weeks. Flowers can be dried at any stage but look best when fully opened.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Aberlasting flowers earned their 'everlasting' name because the papery bracts that form the flower head retain their color and structure for months, even after drying, making them appear forever fresh.
- 🌱 In Victorian times, dried Aberlasting flowers were used to create elaborate tussy-mussies and were sent as coded messages of affection and admiration.
- 🌱 Native to Australia, Aberlasting is also called strawflower because the closed flower buds somewhat resemble small strawberries in appearance.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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