Helichrysum cochleariforme
Care, watering, light and tips for Helichrysum cochleariforme on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asteraceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 10 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–35 °C
About Helichrysum cochleariforme
Helichrysum cochleariforme, commonly known as Gold-and-silver Everlasting, is a perennial plant from the Asteraceae family, valued for its silvery leaves and small, yellow flowers that appear dried even when fresh. This species forms compact mounds and is excellent for garden borders, rockeries, or as ground cover in dry climates. Its texture and color make it stand out in combinations with darker green foliage plants or vibrant colored flowers.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
It requires full sun to thrive and maintain its silvery, dense foliage; lack of light can result in leggy growth. It prefers well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils, and is very drought tolerant once established, so watering should be sparse. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot, especially in heavy soils. Protect from severe frosts, although it can tolerate light cold.
How to save a dying Helichrysum cochleariforme
- Warning signs
- Soft leaves, drooping or rotting stems at the base. Dry, crispy leaves mean extreme thirst.
- First aid
- Check soil. If dry, water thoroughly. If waterlogged, repot into dry, airy soil. Cut off rotten parts.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is the main culprit. Also lack of direct light or poor drainage.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. Prune damaged parts, improve drainage, and adjust watering. It's quite resilient.