BattenBlooms
PL. —Xerochrysum bracteatumBotanical illustration — drop image
Xerochrysum bracteatum

Xerochrysum

SpringSummerFall
8a–11aHardiness zone
Peak bloom windowZone 6b · frost-offset weeks
Winter
Not in bloom
Spring
Not in bloom
Summer
Not in bloom
Fall
Not in bloom
Peak bloom
In bloom
Background

Strawflower (Xerochrysum bracteatum) is an Australian annual grown for its papery, long-lasting bracts that surround the flower center. In Zone 6b it is grown as a warm-season annual since it is not frost-hardy. Gardeners value it for cut and dried flower arrangements because the bracts hold color and shape after drying.

Start seed indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost and surface-sow, as the seed needs light to germinate. Transplant after frost danger passes. Pinch young plants once to encourage branching, and harvest stems when the outer bracts are open but the center is still tight for best drying results.

Good companions
Zinnia elegansCosmos bipinnatusCalendula officinalisTagetes patula
Care guide
SunFull sun — 6+ hours daily
Water1 inch per week; allow soil to dry between waterings
SoilWell-draining, average fertility; pH 6.0–7.5
Spacing9–12 inches
Height24–36 inches
Zone8a – 11a
Direct sow
Seasonal tasks
summer
watchCheck for aphids and powdery mildew during humid spells; improve airflow.
cutHarvest stems when outer bracts open but the center is still closed, for drying.
cutDeadhead spent blooms to extend flowering into fall.
fall
cutHang harvested stems upside down in a dry, dark space to cure.
watchPull and compost plants after the first hard frost kills them.
Common problems

Powdery mildew

Symptoms

White or grey powdery coating on leaves — usually starting on older growth in humid conditions or when nights cool.

Treatment

Improve air circulation by thinning plants. Apply neem oil or potassium bicarbonate spray at first sign. Avoid overhead watering.

Downy mildew

Symptoms

Yellowing on top of leaves with grey-purple fuzz underneath. Spreads rapidly in humid conditions.

Treatment

Remove affected leaves. Improve air circulation. Avoid overhead watering. Copper spray as preventive.

Aphids

Symptoms

Clusters of small soft insects on new growth and flower buds.

Treatment

Knock off with a strong jet of water. Ladybirds and lacewings are natural predators. Insecticidal soap as last resort.

Strawflower Root Rot

Symptoms

Wilting despite moist soil, yellowing lower leaves, and soft, brown roots. Plants collapse in poorly drained or overwatered conditions.

Treatment

Plant in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Let soil dry between waterings. Remove and discard affected plants and do not replant in the same spot without improving drainage.