Helichrysum italicum subsp. serotinum

The Hélichrysum italicum subsp. serotinum, also known as Italian Everlasting or Curry Plant, is a compact shrub with a low habit and upright, downy stems. Its slender, silvery-grey leaves are remarkably aromatic, exuding a powerful curry fragrance. They persist throughout the winter. From June to August, its yellow flowers arranged in corymbs make beautiful dried bouquets. They are highly visited by pollinating insects.

From the Asteraceae family, Hélichrysum italicum subsp. serotinum is native to the Mediterranean basin and thrives in dry and rocky terrain. This small undershrub forms a wide and dense clump, measuring 40 to 50 cm in height and 60 to 75 cm in width. Its numerous upright and woolly stems bear linear leaves, 1 to 3 cm long, with a silvery grey colour, evergreen in winter. Flowering occurs from June to August, depending on the climate. At the end of the stems, inflorescences of small yellow heads surrounded by golden bracts appear. Once dried, you can make lovely bouquets with them. Pick them at the beginning of flowering and dry the flowered stems upside down in a dark room.

The Curry Plant is a plant that is fond of sun and dry soils. It tolerates summer drought well. Hardy down to -15°C, it withstands cold winters in well-drained soil. It can be planted in a flower bed, a dry rock garden, or a large container. It is also ideal in a vegetable garden, attracting pollinating insects. Contrary to its name, curry plants are not used in curry but are a blend of different spices. However, its fresh leaves can be used in cooking to flavour fish, grilled meats, rice, poultry, or marinades. Add them to flavour your dishes at the end of cooking, like a bouquet garni you will remove before serving (like bay leaves). They are not very digestible. Evergreen they are available throughout the year, according to your needs.