Unit 57 (057)

1. Compositae or Asteraceae, the Composite or Aster Family

See Unit 056 for Compositae introduction

2. Strawflowers or Everlastings

Strawflowers is a common name that is used for a number of genera such as

Ammobium, Anaphalis, Gnaphalium, and Helichrysum. Recently, Helichrysum

bracteatum is being listed as Bracteantha bracteataum. Ammobium and

Helichrysum are from Australia where there are many other potential garden

plants.

Colorful, dry, straw like bracts make these plants useful as dried flowers.

Helichrysum also contains species that have gray or light green leaves that are

fingernail size, and these are being used in hanging baskets and other containers.