Xeranthemum annuum Superbissimum Purpureum seeds - Everlasting flower

The Annual Everlasting 'Superbissimum Purpureum' (Xeranthemum annuum) has captivating, intense purple-violet, double and a papery texture. Ideal for dried bouquets, these flowers retain their colour for a long time. Sow this easy-to-grow, annual plant in spring, under cover or directly in the ground depending on the region, for generous flowering from summer until the first chills of autumn. It works well in sunny areas of the garden or in large summer containers.

'Superbissimum Purpureum' is a horticultural selection of the species Xeranthemum annuum, native to the dry plains of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. It stands out for its particularly rich, purple flowering, from intense mauve to silky purple. Each plant forms a branching clump 50 to 60 cm in height, adorned with narrow, silvery-grey, downy foliage that highlights the brilliant flowers in 4 cm diameter heads, composed of dry, shiny bracts that replace the petals. This unique structure allows them to remain intact for a long time, even once cut. Flowering begins approximately three months after sowing, renewing itself from July to September-October.

The Annual Everlasting 'Superbissimum Purpureum' thrives in light soils, even calcareous and fairly dry ones, in full sun. It enhances cottage garden beds and adds a touch of lasting colour to borders. Pair it with Globe Amaranth QIS Formula Mix, Cornflower 'Classic Fantastic', the 'Pandora' Poppy and Hare's-tail Grass 'Bunny Tails' (Lagurus ovatus), a pretty annual grass that also self-seeds. You can also sow it in pots to accompany your annuals on the terrace.

The flowers of Everlasting Flowers are perfectly suited to the art of dried bouquets. To best preserve their beauty, stems should be cut when the heads are well-formed but not fully open. Hang them upside down in a dry, dark, and airy place. Once the stems are thoroughly dry, the leaves can be removed to keep only the flowers, ready to be used in long-lasting and charming floral compositions.