Purple Strawflower is a stunning annual flower that transforms any arrangement into a dramatic statement piece. These double-flowered blooms reach up to 2 inches across, with deep wine-colored petals that give way to brilliant fiery orange centers, creating a striking color contrast that draws the eye. Growing to maturity in 80-90 days, this Helichrysum bracteatum cultivar thrives in full sun across zones 9-11 and requires remarkably little water once established. The true magic lies in its staying power: once cut, these papery blooms hold their color indefinitely, making them as valuable dried as they are fresh.
Full Sun
Low
9-11
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Moderate
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The color combination alone makes Purple Strawflower worth growing, with those wine-dark petals framing brilliant orange centers that seem to glow in fall light. The paper-thin texture of the flower heads means they dry beautifully without fading, holding their color for months or even years in arrangements. Strong, sturdy stems keep those 2-inch flower heads held high and proud, ready for cutting at their peak.
Purple Strawflower excels in both dried and fresh cut arrangements, making it invaluable for florists, wedding planners, and home gardeners who want long-lasting bouquets. The dramatic wine-and-orange color combination makes it particularly stunning in fall wedding arrangements and autumn-themed displays. Because the flowers retain their color indefinitely when dried, they're equally at home in fresh vases or preserved in long-term arrangements that can be enjoyed year-round.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last spring frost in a warm location. Maintain germination temperatures between 65-80°F for best results. Seeds should germinate within 7-10 days under these conditions.
Transplant seedlings outdoors only after all frost danger has passed and nighttime temperatures stay above 50°F. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days before planting. Space plants approximately 12 inches apart in full sun.
Harvest Purple Strawflower blooms when the flower heads are fully open and the papery petals have unfurled completely, typically 80-90 days after planting. Cut stems in early morning when they're most turgid, using sharp scissors and leaving at least 6 inches of stem on the plant for continued blooming. For dried arrangements, harvest at full maturity and hang bunches upside down in a warm, well-ventilated space for 1-2 weeks until completely dry.
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