Strawflower 'Apricot & Peach'

Apricot & Peach Mix (Helichrysum bracteatum)

Also known as  Everlasting Flower

Like the last rays of a late-summer sunset, Apricot and Peach unfurls in warm, romantic tones. Each 2–2½" double bloom begins in a deep and rich salmon tone, and matures to an apricot and blushy peach, gradually softening more to champagne, buff, and palest gold. The transformation from vibrant bud to delicate, sun-washed bloom is a quiet wonder to watch.

Papery petals open wide under the sun and fold inward at dusk or in cool weather, adding gentle movement to the garden. Strong, branching plants provide a generous harvest for both fresh arrangements and everlasting dried bouquets. Pairs elegantly with dusty mauve roses, pale ammi, and soft blue nigella for a dreamy, heirloom-inspired palette.

DETAILS:

QTY: 50

TYPE: Annual

SITE: Full Sun

DEPTH: Surface

GERMINATION: 7-10 days at 21-24°C

HEIGHT: 36-42”

MATURITY: 80-90 Days

SPACING: 10 -12”

PINCH: Yes

HOW TO GROW:

Transplant (recommended): Sow seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last expected frost date. Lightly press seeds into the surface of a seed starting mix; cover only with a very fine layer of vermiculite or soil, as light is required for germination. To avoid burying the seeds, bottom water or mist the containers. Once seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, you can transplant them into larger containers. Harden off seedlings for 7–10 days before transplanting them outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.

Direct Sowing (alternative): Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost date, once the soil has warmed. Lightly rake the seeds into the soil surface and keep the area consistently moist until germination. Transplanting is the more reliable method for achieving earlier blooms.

Pinching and Deadheading: To encourage a bushier plant with more flowers, pinch the tops of young plants when they are about 6–8 inches tall. Deadheading spent flowers throughout the season will promote new blooms and extend the flowering period.

Soil Preference and Watering: Helichrysum thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soil. It is highly adaptable and can tolerate poor to average soil conditions. Avoid overly rich soil, as this can lead to tall, floppy growth. Water consistently during germination and establishment. Once mature, strawflower is quite drought-tolerant and prefers to be on the dry side.

Fertilizing: Fertilizing is not typically necessary for strawflowers. If your soil is very poor, a single application of a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer or a layer of compost at planting time is sufficient. Too much nitrogen can cause weak stems.

Harvesting: For fresh-cut flowers, harvest when the blooms are fully open. For drying, which is their most popular use, cut the stems when the first 2–3 rows of papery petals have opened but before the flower is completely unfurled. Hang bunches of stems upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area for 2–3 weeks until completely dry.