Helichrysum Italicum 17cm Pot
Common Name: Curry plant, Immortelle, Italian Strawflower

Helichrysum italicum, commonly known as curry plant, is a highly aromatic Mediterranean shrub prized for its silvery-grey foliage and strong curry-like scent. Despite the name, it’s not used in curry powder, but it does have culinary, ornamental, and essential oil applications.

Height/Spread: 30–60 cm tall × 60–90 cm wide
Climate: Suited to Mediterranean climates like those in the Western Cape – hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters
Rainfall Needs: Prefers low to moderate rainfall (300–700 mm annually); excellent for water-wise and fynbos-style gardens
Temperature Tolerance: Hardy to about -5°C (light frost); protect young plants in colder inland areas
Soil Preference: Grows best in sandy or gravelly soil with good drainage – ideal for coastal or Karoo regions
Sunlight: Needs full sun (at least 6 hours daily) to thrive and produce strong fragrance
Spacing: Plant about 40–50 cm apart to allow air flow and spreading
Watering: Once established, water once every 1–2 weeks depending on rainfall
Feeding: Minimal; a light compost mulch once a year is usually sufficient
Pruning: Cut back after flowering (late summer/early autumn) to keep compact