What flowers to dry - Part 1: Everlastings

Drying Your Flowers

What Flowers to Dry - Part 1: Everlastings

The difference between a fresh and dried flower can be quite dramatic, so it's important to examine both before you get started. One of the best groups of flowers to start with is a group I call the 'everlastings'. While this isn't a technical horticultural term, it helps me to categorise the flowers I work with, and to understand which flowers are best suited for the drying process.

The flowers in this group don't change very much as they transition from fresh to dry, which makes them a great place to begin.

Everlasting Flowers (Helichrysum bracteatum):

• the petal colour doesn't change much from fresh to dry
• they hold their structure well
• the flower heads and stems are relatively sturdy
• you can get some beautiful varieties
• some flower heads may bend, but this creates a more natural look
• as they are annuals, they are very easy to grow and can withstand drought conditions as well as heavy rain

Winged Everlastings (Ammobium alatum):

• grow very tall
• have lots of offshoots, so you will get plenty of flowers
• they are great for adding interest to wreaths and displays
• the flowers are best picked when the majority of them are still looking fresh

Statice Flowers (Limonium sinuatum):

• one of the most popular dried flowers
• statice flowers are very similar in colour when they are fresh or dried
• they have papery petals, so they are easy to dry

Red Amaranth (Amaranthus paniculatus):

• red amaranth are statement flowers that will add texture and interest to your display
• they can also be grown for their leaves, which can be used as a vegetable
• their flopping and flowing seed heads can be difficult to work with, but if you can find a way to incorporate them, they will make a bold statement in your work
• red amaranth also makes a great tinsel alternative, particularly when draped around a Christmas tree

Lona Flowers (Lonas inodora):

• grow in golden clusters and keep the same colour when they are dried
• they are a great choice in autumn time because of their autumnal colour
• they will add richness to your wreaths and bouquets