HELICHRYSE PLANT CURRY AB
Helichrysum italicum spp. italicum
The curry plant is an aromatic perennial known by several names, including Italian Immortelle because of the long shelf life of dried bouquets, or Helichrysum which means " Golden Sun " in Greek, because during the flowering period, you can see a multitude of tight clusters covered with yellow flowers .
It is mainly used for perfumes and for the production of essential oil for its anti-aging action. Helichrysum is also consumed in branches in cooking to give a curry -like aroma to dishes, such as with rice , marinades for grilled meats, vegetables , meats and fish .
This aromatic plant with a delicate taste and silvery foliage reminiscent of rosemary gives off a strong curry scent when rubbed after rain. It is mainly found around the Mediterranean and thrives on poor , chalky soils.
How to successfully sow helichrysum or curry plant
Sowing : Sow in spring or autumn on the surface in fine seed compost in a sunny location , firm down lightly. You can sow from March in terrines placed under cover, transplant in April then plant in the garden in May .
You can also sow directly in place from May . To do this, remove stones , roots , weeds and clods to obtain very fine soil. Sow spacing then thin out, keeping a plant every 30 to 40 cm .
Planting in the vegetable garden
You can plant helichrysum in spring or autumn in a pot or directly in the garden, keeping 30 to 40 cm between plants. Helichrysum or curry plant will appreciate poor , dry and chalky soils in a sunny location and sheltered from the wind. Hardy , it will resist up to -15°C . However, be careful to plant it in well-drained soil because it will not tolerate excess humidity.
Cultivation of helichrysum or curry plant
The yellow bloom occurs from June to October . No specific amendment is necessary. Prune dead branches in spring and faded flowers in late summer.
Harvesting the curry plant
The leaves are harvested as needed throughout the year.
