
Dharaseeds
Xerochrysum bracteatum Purple Red Strawflower for planting dried floral garden use
Estimated Free Delivery between July 31 and August 03.
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Strawflower Seeds - Purple Red
The Purple Red Strawflower is a stunning and vibrant variety of the popular annual flower, known for its bold, papery blooms and resilience in both the garden and as a dried flower. These flowers stand out with their rich purple-red petals, creating a striking contrast in flower beds, borders, and containers. Loved for their long-lasting beauty, Strawflowers are also favored by floral arrangers for their ability to retain color when dried, making them a perfect choice for everlasting bouquets.
Key Benefits
- Vibrant Color: Features stunning purple-red blooms that are eye-catching and add a bold splash of color to any garden.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, Strawflowers are highly drought-tolerant, making them ideal for low-maintenance gardens.
- Long-Lasting Blooms: The papery flowers hold their color for months, both in the garden and when dried.
- Attracts Pollinators: Bees and butterflies are drawn to the bright flowers, enhancing biodiversity in the garden.
- Versatile in Floral Arrangements: Excellent for both fresh and dried arrangements, making them a favorite among florists.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Tall, upright plants with branching stems that hold a multitude of colorful, daisy-like flowers. Leaves are lance-shaped and slightly hairy.
- Flower Profile: Papery, long-lasting blooms that maintain their vibrant purple-red color even after drying.
- Growth Habit: Compact bushy plants with strong stems, ideal for both garden beds and containers.
- Size: Typically grows to about 18–24 inches tall with flowers that reach up to 3 inches in diameter.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Start in early spring, after the last frost date, or indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost for early blooms.
- Strawflowers thrive in warm, sunny conditions, making them perfect for late spring and summer plantings.
Planting Details
- Seed Depth: Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep.
- Spacing: Space plants about 8–12 inches apart in rows or in pots.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5.
- Sunlight: Full sun is essential for optimal blooming, though they can tolerate some light shade in hot climates.
Care Instructions
Watering
- Water regularly during the growing season, ensuring the soil is kept moist, but not waterlogged. Once established, they are drought-tolerant and require less frequent watering.
- Water deeply to encourage strong root development.
Fertilization
- Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) during the growing season to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.
- Too much fertilizer can result in lush foliage with fewer flowers, so use sparingly.
Weeding and Mulching
- Keep the area free of weeds to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
- Apply a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay, especially in hot summer months.
Pest and Disease Control
- Pests: Strawflowers are generally pest-resistant, but aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs can sometimes be an issue. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage infestations.
- Diseases: They are relatively resistant to most diseases, but it’s important to practice good garden hygiene and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Harvesting
- Maturity: Strawflowers typically bloom 70–90 days after sowing.
- Size: Flowers are ready to be harvested for drying when they are fully open, but still firm and colorful.
- Method: Cut flowers early in the morning when they are dry, just before they start to fade. Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
Storage
- Short-Term: Fresh flowers can be stored in a cool, dry place for about a week before they start to wilt.
- Long-Term: For dried flowers, hang the stems upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area until they are completely dry. Once dried, store them in a dark, dry place to preserve their color.
Culinary Uses
- Edible Flowers: Though not commonly consumed, the flowers can be used as a decorative addition to cakes and salads. They are safe for culinary use in small amounts.
Conclusion
Purple Red Strawflowers offer gardeners an easy-to-grow, long-lasting option for adding color and texture to their garden. Their bold, vibrant flowers make them a standout in any landscape, while their ability to dry beautifully makes them a favorite for arrangements. With their resilience, low maintenance, and ability to attract pollinators, these flowers are an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners alike.