Chrysocephalum apiculatum Korma

Chrysocephalum apiculatum 'Korma' is a compact selection of a wonderful perennial everlasting native to Australia, related to the curry plant that is more familiar to us. This plant, with its stems bearing fine almost white leaves with shiny silver flecks, forms a small, bright bush all year round, even when wet. It comes to life in late summer and early autumn with small, vibrant golden yellow flower heads. Whether planted in the ground or in pots, it is a true ball of light that will enhance all other flowers and foliage. This sun-loving plant is a lovely addition to coastal areas and dry gardens in mild climates.

Chrysocephalum apiculatum (synonym Helichrysum apiculatum) is a herbaceous perennial plant native to southern Australia. Just like the Italian everlasting it resembles, this species belongs to the large botanical family of asteraceae, characterized by their inflorescences. In its native lands, this everlasting is found in sunny spaces such as meadows and dry lawns, always in light and well-drained soils. Its species name 'chrysocephalum' means 'golden head' in Greek, alluding to the golden yellow of its flowers.

'Korma' was selected in England for its more compact habit. It is a fast-growing but short-lived perennial that will benefit from regular pruning to maintain a dense habit, which will help it age gracefully. The plant has slightly suckering roots and reaches about 70 cm (28in) high and 80 cm (32in) wide. It consists of numerous horizontal stems emerging from the base, which quickly straighten as they elongate. The entire vegetation is covered with light and silky hairs, forming a short and dense silvery felt, even whiter when dry. The thin and elongated leaves about 4-5 cm (2in) long, grow close together on the stems. Flowering occurs from August to October in the form of small round, bright yellow clusters of flower heads, about 1 cm (1in) in diameter. After pollination by insects, they produce numerous winged seeds, dispersed by the wind. The flowers can last a long time in dried bouquets, which is why this plant is called everlasting.

In the ground, Chrysocephalum apiculatum 'Korma' can be used in rock gardens or gravel beds, always in well-drained soil and full sun, in mild regions. It is also an excellent plant for flower beds and containers in colder regions. With its beautiful light foliage and modest size, this plant is an excellent companion for cotton lavenders, boxwood edging, thrift, carnations, salvias, and perennial geraniums, with coquelourdes and your favourite heucheras. In pots, choose blue or purple petunias, scaevolas, or lobelias, all these plants will create vibrant scenes, even late in the season.