Helichrysum

The Italian Everlasting or Helichrysum italicum is a perennial Mediterranean bush with golden yellow flowers and beautiful persistent grey foliage, with a very elongated shape similar to that of lavender. It is especially known for its very intense curry scent, perceptible from several metres away, from which essential oils are extracted. The leaves with their pleasant curry scent can be used to flavour your dishes. It grows very well in a pot and pleasantly perfumes a terrace. Helichrysum petiolare, on the other hand, is a creeping perennial forming magnificent silver domed carpets. Its very bright leaves are evergreen. Not hardy, it needs to be overwintered in a bright and frost-free place to survive the winter.

Both Helichrysums should be planted in a sunny, sheltered location and especially in well-drained soil.