Yellow amaranth
Helichrysum stoechas · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant yellow amaranth: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Helichrysum stoechas
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Foliage
- Evergreen, grey-green, fine and aromatic
- Flowering
- May to September, golden yellow flowers
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm tall, spreading habit
- Hardiness
- Down to -5°C, prefers mild winters
- Growth
- Fast
- Origin
- Mediterranean Basin and Middle East
Care
Light
Immortelle requires a very sunny location, at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. It tolerates hot and airy exposures very well. Avoid partial shade which would weaken the plant and reduce flowering.
Watering
Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Once established, this Mediterranean plant tolerates drought very well and needs little water. Reduce watering even further in winter. Beware of overwatering which causes root rot.
Soil
Well-drained and rather poor soil is ideal: light potting mix mixed with sand or gravel. Immortelle hates heavy, wet soils. If your soil is compact, improve drainage before planting.
Pruning and cutting
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact, bushy shape. Pinch young shoots in spring to encourage branching. Faded flowers can be cut fresh for drying: they retain their colour and shape for a long time.
Fertiliser
Apply balanced or low-nitrogen fertiliser in spring, once or twice during the growing season. An established plant in good soil needs very little. Avoid excess nitrogen which would promote foliage at the expense of flowering.
Diseases and pests
Immortelle is generally very resistant. The main risk is root rot if the soil is too wet or watering is excessive. Indoors or in humid conditions, watch out for powdery mildew: ensure good air circulation and avoid wetting the foliage.
Did you know?
Immortelle gets its name from its remarkable ability to keep its flowers intact for months or even years once dried. The ancient Greeks and Romans already revered it, associating it with eternity. Its historical use in phytotherapy and perfumery dates back to antiquity, and it remains highly prized for dried flower arrangements and traditional Mediterranean aromatherapy.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Canadian goldenrodSolidago canadensis
- WormwoodArtemisia absinthium
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.