Xeranthemum

Xeranthemum annuum

Features

  • Cut-and-come-again
  • Dryable
  • Easy to grow
  • Heat-loving

Description

In spite of this plant’s delicate appearance, it thrives in the heat and lasts a surprisingly long time in the vase. Plants are quite tough, and each produces a flush of 15 to 20 branching stems loaded with multiple silvery-white flowers. Long, wiry wands have a delicate, graceful quality and smell like desert sage. Can be used both fresh and dried.

Details

Plant type: annual
Height: 24 to 36 in
Site: full sun
Days to maturity: 100 to 110 days
Plant spacing: 9 in
Pinch: not necessary

Seed Sowing & Growing Notes

Start seed indoors in trays 6 to 8 weeks before last frost; transplant out after all danger of frost has passed.

Harvesting/Vase Life

Harvest when flowers are three-quarters to fully open. Expect a vase life of 10 to 14 days. Flowers can also be dried for later use. Hang freshly cut stems upside down in a warm, dark place for 2 to 3 weeks or until they are firm to the touch.

Details

Description

In spite of this plant’s delicate appearance, it thrives in the heat and lasts a surprisingly long time in the vase. Plants are quite tough, and each produces a flush of 15 to 20 branching stems loaded with multiple silvery-white flowers. Long, wiry wands have a delicate, graceful quality and smell like desert sage. Can be used both fresh and dried.

Details

Plant type: annual
Height: 24 to 36 in
Site: full sun
Days to maturity: 100 to 110 days
Plant spacing: 9 in
Pinch: not necessary

Seed Sowing & Growing Notes

Start seed indoors in trays 6 to 8 weeks before last frost; transplant out after all danger of frost has passed.

Harvesting/Vase Life

Harvest when flowers are three-quarters to fully open. Expect a vase life of 10 to 14 days. Flowers can also be dried for later use. Hang freshly cut stems upside down in a warm, dark place for 2 to 3 weeks or until they are firm to the touch.

Sources

How to Grow

Winter Mini Course

Learn how to start flowers from seed in this three-part video series

In our upcoming Winter Mini Course, you’ll learn everything you need to know to successfully start flowers from seed, including all of the necessary supplies, step-by-step instructions, special tips and tricks, and how to create a simple indoor seed-starting area.