Hardy Annual, Strawflower, or Everlasting, is an easy plant
to grow, with a wide range of colors. The true petals are found
in the center of each flower and they are surrounded by
colorful, straw-like bracts. The flowers bloom from summer to
early autumn. Harvest flowers for drying before they open fully
and hang them upside down in cool, dark place. Seeds need light
to germinate; plant in porous soil. They prosper during hot
summers, but high humidity or continual damp may cause stem
rot.
Tips:
When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant and grow
on in cooler conditions. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor
conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of
frost 30cm (12in) apart in sun and ordinary well drained
soil.
Harvesting:
Pick when foliage is quite dry and the flowers are well open,
tie in small bunches and hang upside down in a dry, well
ventilated place until dry.