About Helichrysum italicum (Roth) G.Don
Helichrysum italicum is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is sometimes known as the curry plant due to the strong fragrance of its leaves. Its other common names are Italian strawflower and immortelle. It grows on dry, rocky or sandy ground across regions surrounding the Mediterranean. Its stems are woody at the base and can reach 60 centimetres (24 in) or more in height. Clusters of its yellow flowers form in summer; these flowers keep their color after being picked, so they are commonly used in dried flower arrangements. This plant is sometimes used as a spice. Even though it is called "curry plant" and smells similar to curry powder, it is not related to the curry spice mixture, nor is it related to the curry tree (Murraya koenigii). It is also not used to make masala for curry dishes. Instead, it has a resinous, somewhat bitter aroma that is similar to the scent of sage or wormwood. Its young shoots and leaves are added to Mediterranean stews made with meat, fish, or vegetables to infuse them with flavor, and are removed from the dish before serving. In cultivation, Helichrysum italicum is a tender perennial that grows in USDA Zones 7–10. It is propagated by rooting semi-hardwood cuttings during summer, and overwintered in frost-free conditions.
