Curry Plant
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Curry Plant Helichrysum Italicum
Curry Plants are half hardy annuals or hardy perennial plants that flower from summer through to the first frost of winter. The plants carry long lasting paper like flowers of orange, yellow, red, or white. Some of the flowers may be two-colored. Curry plant can reach about 1 ft /(30cm) to 5ft/(1.2M) in height.
Ideal Site- Curry plant prefers to be planted in full sun in a sheltered area. It flowers prolifically in poor well-drained loamy soil. The curry plant is a tender perennial hardy to zone 8, but can be grown with protection in zone 6. They grow best in temperatures above 65F(18C). Not suitable for growing indoors, but can be grown in pots outdoors. Curry plant will not grow in heavy wet soils and really is best suited for warmer climates. Cultivation- When sowing from seed, sow in cell packs in February/March in a greenhouse. Lightly cover the seed. The seed usually germinates in 2 - 3 weeks at 68F/ 20C. When the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant the seedlings into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse until warm enough to transplant. Harden off then plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Take stem cuttings off established plants in spring or autumn for propagation. When warm enough plant 12in/30cm apart. Prune lightly in early autumn or spring. In areas with light frost, curry plants may die back temporarily. Protect leaves with 5in/12cm sleeve of straw set between chicken wire. In areas where temperature drops below 22°F(-7C), bring curry plants indoors for winter protection.
Plant Care- When plants are young keep well watered. Protect from cold weather.
Harvesting- Pick leaves and flowers when needed. The curry plant is most flavorful when growing in hot, dry conditions. Problems- Curry plants are usually problem free but can be susceptible to scale insects if kept in the same location for a long time. Uses- Curry leaves can be used fresh or dried to give a subtle seasoning to meats, soups, sauces or stews but there is no resemblance to the intensity of flavor derived from M.koenigii. Curry plant leaves should be used sparingly. The curry leaves are not the same as curry spices used in many cusines. Those curries are ground from several to many spices; which vary regionally. The flowers, which are born in umbels, make attractive plate garnishes; or they can be dried for floral arrangements. Medicinal Uses- Helichrysum or curry oil has recently been reinvestigated as a medicinal herb. It is reputed to be good for bruises and varicose veins. But, you will probably have to make your own oil or infusion. There is very little oil commercially available which tends to make it a bit pricey
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