Strawflowers are quickly becoming one of the most loved plants among gardeners who want bold color, long-lasting blooms, and flowers that look just as good dried as they do fresh. Also known as everlasting flowers, strawflowers have stiff, papery petals that keep their shape and color long after they are picked. This makes them perfect for bouquets, crafts, and brightening up both gardens and homes.
If you’ve only seen the old-fashioned strawflowers, you might be surprised to learn that new varieties are even more vibrant, compact, and easy to grow. These modern strawflowers offer a wider range of colors, stronger stems, and better performance in all kinds of gardens.
Let’s take a closer look at why strawflowers are so special and explore some exciting new types you should try.
What Makes Strawflowers So Unique?
Strawflowers (scientific name Xerochrysum bracteatum) are native to Australia, where they grow in warm, dry conditions. Their unique papery petals are actually modified leaves that protect the real flowers in the center.
Because of this special structure:
- They don’t wilt like normal flowers
- They keep their color when dried
- They last much longer in bouquets
- They handle heat and drought very well
Strawflowers bloom from early summer to fall, providing months of color with very little maintenance.
Why New Strawflower Varieties Are Better Than Ever
Modern plant breeders have improved strawflowers in many ways. New varieties are:
- More compact and bushy
- More resistant to disease
- Available in brighter and more unusual colors
- Better for containers and small gardens
- More uniform in growth
These improvements make strawflowers easier to grow and more beautiful than ever before.
Exciting New Strawflower Varieties to Try
Here are some of the most impressive new strawflower types that deserve a place in your garden.
1. Strawberry Blonde
This variety changes color as it ages, starting in warm gold and slowly turning rose pink. Each plant produces many flowers, making it perfect for cutting gardens and borders.
2. Monstrosum Mix
These plants produce extra-large blooms in bold colors like red, orange, yellow, and white. They stand tall and are ideal for dramatic garden displays.
3. Silvery Rose
This soft, elegant variety has pale pink petals with a silvery sheen. It’s perfect for pastel gardens and dried flower arrangements.
4. Bright Bikini
A compact strawflower that produces masses of small, vivid blooms. It’s great for pots, window boxes, and hanging baskets.
5. King Size Series
These plants produce tall stems and oversized flowers, making them excellent for cutting and floral design.
How to Grow Strawflowers Successfully
Strawflowers are easy to grow, even for beginners.
Sunlight:
They need full sun to bloom well. At least 6 hours of sunlight each day is ideal.
Soil:
They prefer well-draining soil. Sandy or loamy soil works best. Avoid heavy, wet soil.
Water:
Once established, strawflowers are drought-tolerant. Water regularly when young, then reduce watering once the plants mature.
Planting:
You can start seeds indoors or sow them directly in the garden after frost danger has passed.
Caring for Strawflowers
Strawflowers don’t need much care, but a few simple steps will keep them blooming:
- Pinch young plants to encourage bushier growth
- Deadhead old flowers to promote new blooms
- Use light fertilizer if growth seems slow
- Protect from heavy rain, which can damage the papery petals
With minimal effort, you’ll enjoy months of bright, cheerful flowers.
Harvesting Strawflowers for Drying
One of the best things about strawflowers is that you can dry them for long-lasting beauty.
Pick the flowers when they are about half open. Tie them in small bunches and hang them upside down in a dry, dark place. After two to three weeks, they will be fully dried and ready to use.
Dried strawflowers keep their color for months or even years.
Why Strawflowers Belong in Every Garden
Strawflowers bring beauty, durability, and creativity into your garden. They bloom in heat, tolerate dry soil, and give you both fresh and dried flowers.
With new improved varieties now available, there has never been a better time to grow these incredible plants.
Add Everlasting Beauty to Your Garden
If you’re looking for flowers that offer bold color, easy care, and long-lasting beauty, strawflowers are the perfect choice. These exciting new varieties give you more options than ever, making it easy to find the perfect strawflower for your space.
Plant them once, enjoy them all season, and keep their beauty long after summer fades—strawflowers truly live up to their everlasting reputation.