Strawflower Apricot/Peach Mix Plants
Strawflower Apricot/Peach Mix is a stunning annual that produces papery, everlasting flowers in soft shades of apricot and peach from summer through fall. Perfect for cut flower arrangements, drying, beds, or borders, these 3" potted starters thrive in full sun and require minimal care, making them an excellent choice for gardeners looking for vibrant, long-lasting color.
Plant Specifications and Attributes
- Plant Size: 36-42 inches tall, with a spread of 12-18 inches.
- Spacing: Plant 9-12 inches apart for optimal growth.
- Sun Exposure: Full sun (at least 6-8 hours per day); partial shade may reduce blooming.
- Hardiness Zone: Annual; suitable for USDA zones 2-11 (grown as perennial in zones 8-11).
- Bloom Period: Summer to first frost, typically 80-90 days from transplant.
- Attributes: Heat and drought tolerant, low maintenance, excellent for fresh and dried flowers, attracts butterflies and pollinators, strong stems for cutting.
Description
Strawflower (Apricot/Peach Mix), also known as Xerochrysum bracteatum, is a delightful annual flower native to Australia, celebrated for its papery bracts that resemble straw and retain their color even when dried. This mix offers a beautiful palette of soft apricot, peach, and coral tones, adding a warm, summery vibe to any garden. The plants are versatile, suitable for borders, containers, or as focal points in cut flower gardens. They are heat-tolerant and relatively pest-resistant, making them ideal for beginner gardeners.
Transplanting Instructions
- Start seeds indoors in trays 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Do not cover the seeds as they require light to germinate; keep the soil moist and at 70-75°F (21-24°C). Germination occurs in 7-10 days.
- Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for a week.
- Transplant outdoors after all danger of frost has passed, in a location with full sun and well-drained soil. Amend heavy soils with compost to improve drainage.
- Dig holes slightly larger than the 3" pot, space plants 9-12 inches apart, and plant at the same depth as in the pot.
- Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moderately moist until established. Once rooted, strawflowers are drought-tolerant and prefer drier conditions to prevent root rot.
- No pinching is necessary, but staking may be required in windy areas for taller stems.