Strawflowers in Pentre Uchaf

Xerochrysum bracteatum

Strawflower
Strawflower · Xerochrysum bracteatum

A half-hardy annual grown for long-lasting papery flowers. In the UK it does best started under cover, then planted out after frost risk has passed and grown on in a sunny, free-draining spot.

75 cm · Full Sun · Moderate Water

Add to garden

Calibrated to Pentre Uchaf · last frost ≈ 10 Apr

Sow indoors February to March, plant out April to May. Frost risk November to April.
ActivityJanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMayJuneJulyAugustSeptemberOctoberNovemberDecember
Sow indoorsNoYesYesNoNoNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Plant outNoNoNoYesYesNoNoNoNoNoNoNo

Growing guide

Step-by-step instructions for growing Strawflower

  1. 01

    Sow Seeds Indoors

    24 Feb to 20 Mar

    Sow seeds in modules or trays around 24th February - 20th March at a depth of . Keep them at and just moist until they germinate, then give them plenty of light so the seedlings do not stretch.

  2. 02

    Prick Out Seedlings

    29 Mar to 12 Apr

    When the seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out into individual pots around 29th March - 12th April. Handle them by the leaves, not the stems, and keep them growing on in bright, frost-free conditions.

  3. 03

    Harden Off

    27 Mar to 10 Apr

    Acclimatise the young plants gradually around 27th March - 10th April. Put them outside for a few hours at first, then extend the time over about a week so they get used to sun and wind.

  4. 04

    Transplant Outdoors

    24 Apr to 8 May

    Plant out around 24th April - 8th May once frosts have passed and the soil has warmed. Space plants apart in full sun, and water in thoroughly straight away.

  5. 05

    Support and Feed

    31 May to 20 Nov every 2 weeks

    Check plants from 31st May as they settle in, and keep the soil evenly moist in dry spells. A light liquid feed every 14 days helps maintain growth without making the plants soft and floppy.

  6. 06

    Deadheading & Maintenance

    31 May to 20 Nov

    From 31st May onwards, deadhead fading flowers regularly by cutting stems back to a leaf joint. This stops the plant setting seed and keeps it flowering well until the autumn frosts.

Companion plants

Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Strawflower.

Good companions

Plants to avoid

Why companion planting matters

Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.

Suggested varieties

Popular varieties of Strawflower to consider

Swiss Giants

A well-known mixed strain with large, long-lasting flowers in a range of colours.

Silvery Rose

Soft pink flowers with a pale, papery sheen. Good for cutting and drying.

King Size Orange

Bold orange blooms on sturdy stems, useful for borders and cutting.

Strawflower guides by town

See how Strawflower timing shifts in other towns with different frost dates.