Helichrysum italicum

Helichrysum italicum is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is sometimes called the curry plant because of the strong fragrance of its leaves.[1] Other common names include Italian strawflower and immortelle. It grows on dry, rocky or sandy ground around the Mediterranean. The stems are woody at the base and can reach 60 centimetres (24 in) or more in height. The clusters of yellow flowers are produced in summer, they retain their colour after picking and are used in dried flower arrangements.

Helichrysum italicum
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Asterids
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Helichrysum
Species:
H. italicum
Binomial name
Helichrysum italicum
(Roth) G. Don fil.
Synonyms

Helichrysum angustifolium

This plant is sometimes used as a spice. Although called "curry plant" and smelling like curry powder, it is not related with this mixture of spices, nor with the curry tree (Murraya koenigii), and is not used as masala for curry dishes either. Rather, it has a resinous, somewhat bitter aroma reminiscent of sage or wormwood and its young shoots and leaves are often used stewed in Mediterranean meat, fish or vegetable dishes until they have imparted their flavour, and removed before serving.

Cultivation

Helichrysum italicum is a tender perennial (USDA Zones 7–10). It is propagated by rooting semi-hardwood cuttings in summer and overwintering in frost-free conditions.[1]

  • Helichrysum italicum
    Helichrysum italicum
  • Helichrysum italicum flowering
    Helichrysum italicum flowering
  • Close-up of inflorescences
    Close-up of inflorescences

References
  1. "Helichrysum italicum (Curry Plant)". Gardenia.net. Retrieved 2021-03-07.

Sources


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