Helichrysum bracteatum, commonly known as strawflower or everlasting flower, is a warm-season annual prized for its papery, vividly colored blooms and long-lasting ornamental value. This upright, branching plant typically grows between 2 and 3 feet tall, with a spread of about 1 to 1.5 feet wide, forming a sturdy clump of silvery-green, lance-shaped foliage. The leaves generally measure 2 to 5 inches long and about ½ to 1 inch wide, with a slightly rough texture. Flower heads are prominent and daisy-like, ranging from 2 to 3 inches in diameter, composed of stiff, papery bracts in shades of yellow, orange, red, pink, white, and bronze surrounding a central disc that is often golden or brown. The stems are strong and wiry, typically extending 12 to 36 inches long, making them excellent for cutting and drying. Plants are usually spaced 10 to 12 inches apart in garden beds to allow adequate airflow and branching. Blooming from early summer until the first frost, strawflowers perform best in full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating heat and light drought once established. Their long stems and durable blossoms make them especially valued in fresh bouquets and dried floral arrangements.