Helichrysum italicum Plug Bio

Helichrysum or Curry Plant is a perennial subshrub, 30 to 40cm (12 to 16in) tall, commonly known as Italian Everlasting, Curry Herb or Helichrysum. The highly aromatic leaves emit a powerful curry fragrance. Its yellow flowers, arranged in heads, can be used to make magnificent dried bouquets. The plug plants of Helichrysum – curry plant are produced using organic methods. They can be planted in spring or autumn.

Native to the Mediterranean basin, Helichrysum italicum is a perennial subshrub with dense tufts. Its silver-grey leaves are evergreen and highly aromatic, releasing a strong curry scent. However, Curry Herb is not used in the composition of curry used in cooking, which is a blend of different spices.

Italian Everlasting produces small yellow flowers arranged in heads throughout the summer. They can be used to create beautiful dried bouquets with a bright yellow colour. Helichrysum italicum blends perfectly in rock gardens and perennial beds. Hardy down to -15°C, it thrives in all types of soils, including poor and rocky soils. It is sensitive to excessively moist soils. Fresh leaves can be used in cooking to flavour fish, grilled meats, rice, poultry, or marinades. Add them towards the end of cooking as their flavour in cooking is much less pronounced than the scent they release in the garden. The leaves are used for flavouring but are rather indigestible and it is best not to consume them.

Harvesting: Pick the flowers at the beginning of flowering to dry them. The evergreen leaves can be harvested throughout the year, as needed. Storage: For bouquets, dry the flower stems upside down in a dark room. They will keep for a long time. As for the leaves, they are used fresh. Gardener's tip: If aphids or caterpillars invade the curry plant, use nettle liquid manure or black soap.