The Licorice Plant, known botanically as Helichrysum petiolare, is a popular ornamental plant. Its foliage consists of soft, silvery-gray, felt-like leaves, creating textural contrast in gardens and containers. This plant often exhibits a trailing habit, making it suitable for hanging baskets or spilling over pot edges. Many gardeners wonder if this plant will return year after year.
Understanding Plant Life Cycles
To understand the nature of the Licorice Plant, it is helpful to first differentiate between annuals and perennials in general gardening terms. Annual plants complete their entire life cycle within a single growing season. They sprout from seed, grow, flower, produce seeds, and then die, typically before winter arrives. Perennial plants, in contrast, live for more than two years, often returning each spring from their rootstock.
The Licorice Plant’s True Nature
The Licorice Plant (Helichrysum petiolare) is botanically classified as a tender perennial. This means that while it possesses the genetic capability to live for multiple years, its survival through winter depends significantly on the ambient temperature. Its native range includes the Cape Provinces of South Africa, as well as Angola, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, which are regions characterized by warmer climates. This origin explains its preference for mild conditions and its sensitivity to cold.
Climate Impact on Growth
The Licorice Plant is often cultivated as an annual in many regions due to its cold sensitivity. Its winter survival is categorized by USDA Plant Hardiness Zones. In colder zones, where temperatures consistently fall below freezing, the plant will perish outdoors. Gardeners commonly replant it each spring after the last frost.
In warmer, frost-free climates (generally USDA Zones 9-11), the plant thrives as a perennial. It cannot withstand prolonged exposure to temperatures below -1 to 5 degrees Celsius (30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit).
Tips for Year-Round Growth
In colder climates, overwintering Licorice Plants indoors is a practical strategy. Before the first frost, bring potted plants inside. Place them in a bright location, such as a south-facing window, ensuring at least six to eight hours of indirect light daily.
During indoor months, reduce watering significantly, allowing the soil to dry almost completely between waterings to prevent root rot. While the plant tolerates dry conditions, moderate humidity can be beneficial. Ensure well-draining soil and prune occasionally to maintain shape and promote bushier growth.