Species licorice plant
clusters of creamy white flowers along brown stems and gray-green, round leaves

licorice plant

Helichrysum petiolare

The licorice plant, or Helichrysum petiolare, is a relative of the sunflower native to South Africa. This evergreen shrub is characterized by its velvety gray foliage and yellow summer blooms. The plant was given its name for its distinct licorice scent once the leaves are crushed; this aroma has been used in traditional medicine for its calming and immunostimulatory properties. Licorice plants will reach a height of one to two feet and benefit from full sun exposure. If planted in the garden, it will require regular pruning to maintain its desired shape. The plant also has great drought resistance, making it an excellent addition to any xeriscape garden.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Stem Propagation,Division,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

9 - 11

Flowers:

White (non-flowering as annual) Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

silver,green,gray,gray

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

The licorice plant is a highly drought-tolerant evergreen succulent. It requires infrequent watering and should remain dry between watering sessions. Water only when the soil is completely dry to the touch, as too much water can cause root rot. Water the soil around the base of the plant thoroughly and let the excess water drain away. It's best not to water the leaves of the plant as this can promote bacterial and fungal growth. Water the plant in the morning about once every 10-14 days during growing season, and water less during winter.

sunlight

Licorice plant prefers full sun to partial shade, and thrives in bright, indirect light. When grown outdoors, the plant should be placed in a location that gets 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. When grown indoors, place the plant in a south-facing window or near a grow light to ensure it gets adequate light. Avoid direct sunlight as this will cause the plant to scorch and could damage the leaves. Licorice plant prefers to dry slightly between watering sessions, so it is important not to overwater.

pruning

For a licorice plant (Helichrysum petiolare), pruning is necessary to keep the plant healthy and bushy. Pruning should be done on a regular basis, starting in late winter to early spring. That way, the plant can grow strong and healthy throughout the season. When pruning the licorice plant, it is important to take off the old stems and leaves that have been on the plant for some time. This will encourage the plant to produce new, stronger stems and leaves. Aim to prune the older, damaged parts of the plant by trimming the stems just above the soil line. However, be sure not to cut away any of the new, healthy growth as this is vital for the plant’s health. Overall, pruning the licorice plant should be done on a regular basis, preferably once in early spring and again in late summer to early fall. This way, you can ensure that your plant will stay healthy and strong all season long.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

The Helichrysum petiolare, or licorice plant, typically begins flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

The Helichrysum petiolare, or licorice plant, typically begins flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map