strawflower
(Helichrysum petiolare)
This species is Introduced in the United States
Appearance
Helichrysum petiolare is a climbing scrambling shrub grows unsupported to 2 ft. (0.61 m) tall and spreading to 6 ft. (1.8 m) wide but with some support can climb higher.
Foliage
Helichrysum petiolare is an evergreen plant with simple leaves. The aromatic leaves are arranged opposite one another. They are silvery grey and wooly-tomentose. The leaves are petiolate and ovate with entire margins.
Flowers
The flowers are many-petaled and yellow with creamy white bracts. The plants bloom from August to September.
Fruit
The fruits are achenes (A small dry fruit containing a single seed).
Ecological Threat
Helichrysum petiolare is known for successfully outcompeting native plant species. It can be found in ditches and along roadsides. This plant has been popular as a landscape shrub because it is so hardy and easy to grow. It is native to South Africa.
Selected Images
Maps
EDDMapS Distribution - This map is incomplete and is based only on current site and county level reports made by experts, herbaria, and literature. For more information, visit www.eddmaps.org
State Lists - This map identifies those states that have this species on their invasive species list or law.
Taxonomic Rank
| Domain: Eukarya |
| Kingdom: Plantae |
| Phylum: Magnoliophyta |
| Class: Magnoliopsida |
| Superorder: Asteranae |
| Order: Asterales |
| Family: Asteraceae |
| Subfamily: Asteroideae |
| Tribe: Gnaphalieae |
| Genus: Helichrysum |
| Helichrysum petiolare |
References
Common Name Reference: USDA, NRCS. 2010. The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA.
Scientific Name Reference: USDA, NRCS. 2010. The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA.