How to Grow Strawflower Jumbo Mix
Wikimedia Commons
Strawflower Jumbo Mix
Xerochrysum bracteatum
flowerStrawflower Jumbo Mix is a vibrant annual flower variety that produces large, papery blooms in a rainbow of colors including red, pink, yellow, orange, and white. These heat and drought-tolerant flowers are beloved by florists and gardeners for their long vase life and ability to dry beautifully. The blooms have a distinctive straw-like texture that persists long after cutting, making them ideal for dried arrangements.
Looking for a specific variety?
When should you plant Strawflower Jumbo Mix in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Strawflower Jumbo Mix timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Strawflower Jumbo Mix
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
First Strawflower Jumbo Mix blooms
Around Jun 26≈ 70 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Strawflower Jumbo Mix dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Grows as an annual in all zones; thrives in zones 9-11 as a tender perennial
Sign up free to see if Strawflower Jumbo Mix grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Strawflower Jumbo Mix timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings with two cotyledons and first true leaves appearing
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged; provide bright light; thin seedlings to proper spacing when 2-3 inches tall
Vegetative
4-6 weeksCompact bushy plant with narrow, linear green foliage developing sturdy stems
Pinch back growing tips when plants are 6-8 inches tall to encourage bushiness and more flower stems; water moderately; reduce nitrogen fertilizer
Budding
2-3 weeksFlower buds beginning to form at branch tips, appearing as tight papery structures
Continue regular watering during dry spells; reduce fertilizer; stake taller varieties if needed in windy locations
Flowering
8-12 weeks or until frostLarge, papery composite flowers opening in vibrant colors with visible yellow disk florets in the center
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowering; cut flowers regularly for vase use; minimal supplemental water needed
Seed Production
3-4 weeksFlowers fade slightly as seeds develop within the papery bracts; seeds become viable for saving
Allow some flowers to remain on plant for seed collection if desired; let seed heads dry completely on plant; harvest seeds when fully dry and brown
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Spray with strong water stream; increase humidity; use neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe
-
Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap; introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs
-
Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply sulfur dust or fungicide at first sign; remove affected leaves
-
Spray with water; apply insecticidal soap; use neem oil; plant near companion plants that attract predatory insects
Uses
Dried flower arrangements
CraftStrawflowers are a florist staple for dried arrangements, wreaths, and everlasting bouquets. Their papery texture and vibrant colors persist for years without fading, making them ideal for long-lasting home décor and craft projects. [source]
Cut flower arrangements
HouseholdFresh strawflower stems last 1-2 weeks in a vase and add texture and color to mixed bouquets. Their unique appearance makes them a distinctive focal point in fresh arrangements. [source]
Pollinator support
WildlifeStrawflowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects with their open disk florets and abundant pollen. They serve as a valuable nectar and pollen source throughout the blooming season. [source]
Edible flower garnish
CulinaryStrawflower petals are edible and can be used as colorful, delicate garnishes for cakes, salads, and desserts. They add visual appeal and a slightly papery texture to culinary presentations. [source]
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers in the morning when fully open but before the sun gets too hot. Cut stems at an angle just below the flower head. Strawflowers are best harvested for drying when fully open and papery. For fresh arrangements, they last 1-2 weeks in water. To dry, hang bundles upside down in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area for 1-2 weeks. They retain color and shape exceptionally well when dried.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Strawflowers are native to Australia and thrive in hot, dry conditions, making them one of the most heat and drought-tolerant annual flowers available.
- 🌱 The 'straw-like' texture of the flowers is actually made of papery bracts (modified leaves), not the true petals, which allows them to retain their appearance and color for years when dried.
- 🌱 Strawflowers have been cultivated for centuries and were particularly popular during the Victorian era for creating permanent floral arrangements before refrigeration made fresh flowers more accessible.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Strawflower Jumbo Mix planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Strawflower Jumbo Mix seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Strawflower Jumbo Mix timeline →