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

Summer Mini Course

Learn how to grow, harvest & arrange beautiful cut flowers

In our three-part video series, you’ll learn a simple step to double the number of blooms your plants produce, how to cut and care for your flowers for the longest vase life, and how to make mixed bouquets quickly and efficiently.