Ruby Clusters Helichrysum

Helichrysum amorginum 'Blorub'

Helichrysum ‘Ruby Clusters’ in March 2014 with its characteristic rosy buds. Photo: SK Reid.

Summary

This petite member of the star flower genus forms an attractive, tight, mounding rosette of gray foliage with deep rose flower buds in early spring that open to small yellow flowers in April. The dried flowers remain appealing until about July, when the plants require deadheading to remain attractive. We handpicked the larvae of American painted lady butterflies that were chewing the leaves during the establishment year, and the plants only had minor trouble with the same pest the second year.  We did have some damage from beetles in the Bupestridae family. At the end of the two-year trial the average size of a plant was 4.3” high (10.9 cm) and 8.6” wide (21.9 cm). Although the plant growth index of the 80% treatment was larger than the other treatments in October, the relative plant growth index was not significantly larger, which means the plants on that treatment just happened to be larger to begin with. The quality ratings tell a different story: foliage, flowering, pest tolerance, vigor and overall appearance were all best on the highest level of irrigation at 80% of ET₀, and only this treatment approached an average annual rating of 4.0. While all the plants looked good in the springtime, they began to decline in June, sliding under the acceptable 3.0 mark on all treatments by August. There may be other conditions under which this plant looks good for a longer period of time, and though the trials staff really liked this plant when it was at its best, full sun and clay soil in the interior is not the best growing situation for it.

Growth and Quality Data

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Helichrysum ‘Ruby Clusters’ in April 2014 with flowers opening to cover plant. Photo: SK Reid.