Helichrysum facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Strawflower |
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| Red Everlasting (Helichrysum sanguineum) | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| (unranked): | |
| (unranked): | |
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| Order: | |
| Family: | |
| Subfamily: |
Asteroideae
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| Tribe: |
Gnaphalieae
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| Genus: |
Helichrysum
Mill., 1754
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| Species | |
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Helichrysum arenarium - Dwarf Everlasting |
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Helichrysum is a special kind of flower. It belongs to the same family as sunflowers, called Asteraceae. There are about 600 different types, or species, of Helichrysum flowers!
The name Helichrysum comes from two old Greek words. Helisso means "to turn around," and chrysos means "gold." This name might describe how some of these flowers look like golden suns.
You can find these flowers growing in many parts of the world. They are common in Africa, Madagascar, Australia, Asia, and Europe. There are especially many different kinds of Helichrysum in South Africa.
Contents
Strawflower: The Everlasting Bloom
What is a Strawflower?
Strawflowers are known for their unique petals that feel a bit like paper or straw when they are dry. This is why they are often called "everlasting flowers." They are part of the large Asteraceae family, which also includes daisies and sunflowers.
There are hundreds of different Helichrysum species. They come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. Some are small and low to the ground, while others can grow quite tall.
Where Do Strawflowers Grow?
These amazing plants are found all over the world. They grow naturally in places like Africa, especially South Africa, and also in Madagascar. You can also spot them in Australia, parts of Asia, and Europe. They are quite adaptable and can grow in different environments.
How Are Strawflowers Used?
Strawflowers are very popular for a few reasons. Many people grow them in their gardens because they are beautiful ornamental plants. They add a splash of color and interesting texture to flower beds.
One of the coolest things about strawflowers is that they can be dried. If you cut the flowers when they are still young, they keep their bright colors and shape for a very long time. This makes them perfect for dried flower arrangements, crafts, and decorations that last for months or even years!
Images for kids
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Helichrysum italicum essential oil in a glass bottle.
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Helichrysum candolleanum growing in Namibia.
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Helichrysum moeserianum in De Hoop Nature Reserve, South Africa.
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Helichrysum orientale.
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Helichrysum petiolare, also known as Licorice Plant.
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Helichrysum roseo-niveum in Namibia.
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Helichrysum setosum.
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Helichrysum thianschanicum 'Icicles' at a fair in California, USA.
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Helichrysum thianschanicum (Icicles leaves) at a plant nursery on Maui.
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Helichrysum umbraculigerum.
See also
In Spanish: Flor de papel para niños
