Grow Your Own Sunshine: A Guide to Cultivating Xerochrysum viscosum

The Sticky Everlasting: A Gardener’s Guide to Xerochrysum viscosum

Sticky everlasting (Xerochrysum viscosum) is a fantastic plant, popular for its cheerful, long-lasting blooms and ease of cultivation. Native to Australia, this delightful perennial is a favorite among gardeners seeking to add a touch of sunshine to their landscapes. Its unique qualities, from the sticky stems and leaves to the papery, daisy-like flowers, make it a standout choice. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about growing and enjoying Xerochrysum viscosum.

Characteristics of Xerochrysum viscosum

Xerochrysum viscosum, often called Sticky Everlasting, is a herbaceous perennial known for its vibrant display of flowers. Here’s a closer look at its key features:

• Appearance: The plant typically grows to a height of 0.3 to 0.6 meters (1 to 2 feet), with a similar spread. Its leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and somewhat sticky to the touch, hence the common name. The flowers, which appear from spring to autumn, are the main attraction. They resemble small, colorful daisies, with papery bracts surrounding a central disc. The bracts come in various shades of yellow and white, and even sometimes pink or orange. The flowers retain their color and form even after drying, making them excellent for dried flower arrangements.
• Growth Habit: This plant has an upright, bushy growth habit, making it suitable for borders, rock gardens, and containers. It’s relatively low-maintenance and thrives in sunny locations with well-draining soil.
• Hardiness: Xerochrysum viscosum is well-suited to warm climates and is known for its resilience. It is generally drought-tolerant once established, adding to its appeal for low-water gardens.

Growing Xerochrysum viscosum from Seed

One of the most rewarding aspects of gardening is starting plants from seed. Xerochrysum viscosum is relatively easy to propagate through this method. Here’s how to get started:

1. Seed Collection: If you’re fortunate enough to have access to existing plants, the first step is collecting seeds. The seedheads, once the flowers have faded and dried, will hold the seeds. Be mindful of the timing, as the seeds can disperse quickly in windy conditions. The seeds are small and light, so handle them with care.
2. Sowing:
   • Timing: The best time to sow seeds is in the spring, after the last frost. This allows the seedlings to establish themselves before the summer heat.
   • Starting Indoors: For an early start, you can sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Use seed trays or small pots filled with a well-draining seed-starting mix. Surface sow the seeds, as they need light to germinate, and gently press them into the soil.
   • Direct Sowing: Alternatively, you can sow seeds directly into the garden. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Lightly rake the soil surface and sow the seeds, barely covering them with soil or vermiculite.
3. Germination:
   • Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Germination usually takes 1 to 3 weeks.
   • Once the seedlings have emerged, provide them with plenty of sunlight. If starting indoors, gradually acclimate the seedlings to outdoor conditions before transplanting.
4. Transplanting: When the seedlings are large enough to handle (usually when they have several sets of true leaves), transplant them to their permanent location in the garden. Space the plants about 30-45 cm (12-18 inches) apart to allow for adequate air circulation.

Cultivating Xerochrysum viscosum

Once your sticky everlastings are established, here are some tips to ensure they thrive:

• Sunlight: Xerochrysum viscosum thrives in full sun. Ensure the plants receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Soil: Well-draining soil is crucial. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve drainage.
• Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to help the plants establish. Once established, they are relatively drought-tolerant. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
• Fertilizing: Feed your Xerochrysum viscosum with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
• Deadheading: Removing spent flower heads (deadheading) encourages the plant to produce more blooms. Simply snip off the faded flowers just below the flower head.
• Pruning: After the flowering season is over, you can cut back the plants to promote a bushier shape and remove any dead or damaged stems.

Common Problems and Solutions

While Xerochrysum viscosum is generally a low-maintenance plant, here are some potential issues to watch out for:

• Poor Drainage: Soggy soil can lead to root rot. Ensure your plants are in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
• Pests: Aphids and spider mites can sometimes be a problem. Inspect your plants regularly and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Be careful when applying any treatments, particularly on the flowerheads.
• Fungal Diseases: In humid conditions, fungal diseases such as powdery mildew can occur. Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering. Treat infections with appropriate fungicides if necessary.

Designing with Xerochrysum viscosum

The versatility of Xerochrysum viscosum makes it an excellent choice for various garden designs. Here are some ideas:

• Borders: Plant them in borders, either as a mass planting or mixed with other flowering perennials. Their bright colors and long blooming season make them a valuable addition to any border.
• Rock Gardens: Their drought tolerance and preference for well-draining soil make them perfect for rock gardens.
• Containers: Grow them in containers on patios, balconies, or decks. They are excellent choices for adding color and texture to small spaces. Be sure the containers have good drainage.
• Cutting Gardens: Their long-lasting blooms make them an ideal choice for cutting gardens. Harvest the flowers when they are in their prime and enjoy them indoors in fresh or dried arrangements.

Harvesting and Preserving Sticky Everlasting Flowers

One of the main advantages of Xerochrysum viscosum is that you can harvest its flowers to enjoy them long after they have bloomed in the garden. Here’s how to do it:

1. Timing: Harvest the flowers when they are fully open but before they begin to fade. The ideal time is usually in the morning, after the dew has dried.
2. Cutting: Cut the stems as long as possible to allow for more flexibility in arrangements. Use clean, sharp scissors or a knife to make a clean cut.
3. Drying:
   • Air Drying: This is the most common method. Hang the flower stems upside down in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place. Allow them to dry for 2 to 3 weeks. Once dried, the flowers will retain their color and shape.
   • Silica Gel: For a faster drying method, you can bury the flowers in silica gel. This will help them retain their shape and color. Place the flowers in a container and cover them completely with silica gel. Seal the container and leave it for a few days to a week, depending on the size of the flowers.
4. Arranging: Once dried, the flowers can be used in various arrangements. They look beautiful in bouquets, wreaths, and other decorative projects. You can also add them to potpourri.

Conclusion

Xerochrysum viscosum is a delightful and rewarding plant for any gardener. Its cheerful flowers, ease of cultivation, and versatility in the garden make it a must-have for those seeking beauty and low maintenance. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner, growing sticky everlasting is a worthwhile endeavor. With the right care and a bit of patience, you can enjoy the beauty of this remarkable plant for years to come.