The curry plant is an aromatic perennial known by several names, including Italian Immortelle because of the long shelf life of dried bouquets, or Helichrysum which means " Golden Sun " in Greek, because during the flowering period, you can see a multitude of tight clusters covered with yellow flowers .

It is mainly used for perfumes and for the production of essential oil for its anti-aging action. Helichrysum is also consumed in branches in cooking to give a curry -like aroma to dishes, such as with rice , marinades for grilled meats, vegetables , meats and fish .

This aromatic plant with a delicate taste and silvery foliage reminiscent of rosemary gives off a strong curry scent when rubbed after rain. It is mainly found around the Mediterranean and thrives on poor , chalky soils.

How to successfully sow helichrysum or curry plant

Sowing : Sow in spring or autumn on the surface in fine seed compost in a sunny location , firm down lightly. You can sow from March in terrines placed under cover, transplant in April then plant in the garden in May .

You can also sow directly in place from May . To do this, remove stones , roots , weeds and clods to obtain very fine soil. Sow spacing then thin out, keeping a plant every 30 to 40 cm .

Planting in the vegetable garden

You can plant helichrysum in spring or autumn in a pot or directly in the garden, keeping 30 to 40 cm between plants. Helichrysum or curry plant will appreciate poor , dry and chalky soils in a sunny location and sheltered from the wind. Hardy , it will resist up to -15°C . However, be careful to plant it in well-drained soil because it will not tolerate excess humidity.

Cultivation of helichrysum or curry plant

The yellow bloom occurs from June to October . No specific amendment is necessary. Prune dead branches in spring and faded flowers in late summer.

Harvesting the curry plant

The leaves are harvested as needed throughout the year.