The Dwarf Everlasting (scientifically known as *Helichrysum arenarium*) is a charming member of the Asteraceae family. These beauties are a total favorite among gardeners and crafters alike because they are the gold standard for dried flowers. Unlike many other blooms that get brittle and fall apart once dried, these stay sturdy and keep their gorgeous looks for a long time.
Planting Your Everlastings
In the wild, you’ll find these flowers popping up across Scandinavia and throughout Central and Southeastern Europe. Even though they’re used to temperate climates, they’re actually a bit sensitive to the cold. To be safe, wait until mid-May (after the last frost) to get them in the ground. When picking the perfect spot, keep these three things in mind:
- Lots of sunshine
- Sandy, loamy soil
- Nutrient-rich earth
To give your flowers the best start, I recommend mixing some compost and horn meal into the soil before planting to boost the nutrient levels. If your garden has heavy or compacted soil, tossing in a bit of sand will help improve drainage—these plants don’t like “wet feet!”
The Right Way to Plant
Before you start digging, make sure to clear out any weeds, old roots, or large stones from the area. You’ll want to dig a hole about one and a half times the size of the root ball. If you’re planting several, give them some breathing room by spacing them about 8 to 10 inches (20–25 cm) apart. Once they’re in the ground, give them a good, thorough watering to help them settle in.
Caring for Your Flowers
When it comes to maintenance, regular watering is key during those first few weeks. Once the root system is well-established, you can scale back; at 그 point, they’ll really only need a drink if it hasn’t rained in a while. For feeding, a little liquid fertilizer mixed into your watering can every two weeks from June through October is plenty. Pro tip: Get into the habit of deadheading (removing dried-up blooms) quickly—it encourages the plant to keep pushing out fresh, new flowers!
A Classic Medicinal Herb
Beyond being a treat for the eyes, the Dwarf Everlasting has a long history in natural medicine. It’s packed with beneficial properties, including:
- Antispasmodic (helps with cramps)
- Cholagogue (promotes bile flow)
- Stimulating and invigorating effects
Many people use the flowers to brew a tea that helps soothe stomach aches and digestive issues. You can also find Everlasting oil, which is fantastic for treating bruises or calming a nasty sunburn.