The strawflower (Xerochrysum bracteatum) is highly valued for its longevity after harvest. Often called an everlasting flower, its stiff, papery bracts allow it to retain its shape and vibrant color when dried. This natural preservation quality means the strawflower is primarily grown for use in dried arrangements and crafts, not for its fresh-cut lifespan. Achieving a high-quality preserved bloom depends entirely on selecting the correct harvest time, as the flower’s physiology dictates its final dried appearance.
Identifying the Ideal Stage for Harvest
Determining the precise moment to cut the strawflower is the most important factor for successful drying, due to post-harvest maturation. Strawflowers continue to open even after the stem is severed from the plant. If the bloom is harvested when fully open, the papery bracts will curl backward and expose the central disc, which turns a muddy brown color upon drying.
The goal is to cut the flower when it is still partially closed, allowing it to open gently into a perfect shape during the drying phase. The ideal visual cue is when the outer two or three rows of stiff, colorful bracts have fully unfolded. At this stage, the yellow disc florets at the center of the bloom should still be tightly concealed or only just barely beginning to peek through.
A helpful technique to assess readiness is the “wiggle test.” Gently grasp the stem about eight inches below the bloom and lightly shake it. If the flower head flops loosely, the stem is too soft, and the flower is not mature enough to hold its form through drying. Harvesting on a sunny day is also recommended because the flowers naturally open when exposed to bright light, making the exact stage of openness easier to judge.
Proper Techniques for Cutting Stems
The mechanical act of harvesting should be executed with precision, separate from the timing of the bloom stage. The best time of day for cutting is in the morning, after the dew has evaporated from the foliage. Harvesting while the plant is fully hydrated, but before the heat of midday, helps ensure the stem has maximum water and nutrient reserves. Cutting on a dry day is also important to prevent moisture from collecting inside the flower head, which can lead to mold during preservation.
The cut should be made using sharp, clean shears or snips to ensure a swift, non-crushing severing of the stem. While cutting at a 45-degree angle is sometimes used for water uptake, the primary goal is a clean cut. It is advisable to cut deeply into the plant, selecting a long stem length, often 18 inches or more, to maximize usability in later arrangements.
Immediately after cutting, all excess foliage along the stem must be stripped away. Leaves retain moisture, and removing them accelerates the drying process while reducing the risk of mold growth in bundled groups. The deep cut into the plant also encourages the strawflower to produce more lateral branches and subsequent blooms.
Essential Steps for Drying and Preservation
Once the strawflowers are harvested and stripped of excess leaves, the preservation process must begin immediately to lock in their color and shape. The stems should be gathered into small, manageable bundles, ideally containing between five and ten stems. Tying them too tightly or in large bunches restricts airflow, which increases the risk of fungal growth and uneven drying.
The bundles must be secured tightly at the base of the stems, often with a rubber band or twine, and then hung upside down. Hanging them inverted ensures that the stems dry straight and prevents the flower heads from drooping or bending at the neck as moisture evaporates. This upright structure is necessary for creating aesthetically pleasing arrangements.
The drying environment must be dark, dry, and well-ventilated. Darkness is needed to preserve the vibrant colors, as direct sunlight causes pigments to fade quickly. A dry, low-humidity area with good air circulation, such as an attic or shed, prevents mold formation, which is a common issue. The flowers typically require three weeks to a month to dry completely, depending on the ambient humidity and temperature. The blooms are fully cured when the stems feel brittle and completely dry to the touch, and the flower heads are stiff and papery.