Curry Plant (Helichrysum italicum)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Helichrysum italicum is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring in salads and cooked foods. — Leaves - used as a flavouring in salads and cooked foods.; They have a slight flavour of curry, though they do not impart this very well to other foods.; An essential oil (from the leaves?) is used as a flavouring to enhance fruit flavours in sweets, ice cream, baked goods, soft drinks and chewing gum.; A tea is made from the flower heads.

Habitat & North American Range

Arid hills, rocks and cliffs. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)