Curry Plant

Helichrysum italicum is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is sometimes called the curry plant because of the strong fragrance of its leaves; other common names include Italian strawflower and immortelle. It grows on dry, rocky or sandy ground around the Mediterranean. The stems are woody at the base and can reach 60 cm or more in height. The clusters of yellow flowers are produced in summer, retain their colour after picking, and are used in dried flower arrangements.

Helichrysum italicum is sometimes used as a spice. Although called "curry plant" and bearing the aroma of curry powder, it is not related to this mixture of spices nor the curry tree (Murraya koenigii), and is not used as masala for curry dishes. Rather, it has a resinous, somewhat bitter aroma reminiscent of sage or wormwood. Its young shoots and leaves are used in a stew of Mediterranean meat, fish, or vegetable dishes until they have imparted their flavour and removed before serving. The plant is reportedly used in traditional medicinein several European countries—particularly Italy, Spain, Portugal and Bosnia and Herzegovina—for the treatment of allergies, colds, cough, inflammation, infections and sleeplessness.

Cultivation: Helichrysum italicum is a tender perennial (USDA Zones 7–10). It is propagated by rooting semi-hardwood cuttings in summer and overwintering in frost-free conditions.