Published: 30/12/2020 | Last Updated: 28/08/2026 | Reading Time: 19 minutes

Growing Liquorice Plant (Helichrysum petiolare) in Australian Gardens – Complete Care Guide

Helichrysum petiolare, commonly known as the Liquorice Plant or Trailing Dusty Miller, has become an indispensable element in Australian gardens, particularly valued for its silvery-grey foliage that creates stunning contrasts with flowering plants and green-leaved companions. Native to South Africa’s coastal regions, this versatile trailing plant thrives in Australia’s Mediterranean, temperate and subtropical climates, making it an excellent choice for gardens from Perth’s dry summers to Sydney’s humid coastal conditions and Melbourne’s variable weather patterns¹.

What distinguishes the Liquorice Plant from other silver-foliaged plants is its exceptional versatility combined with remarkable drought tolerance once established. Unlike many trailing plants that require constant moisture, Helichrysum petiolare adapts to various water conditions while maintaining its attractive appearance. Whether cascading from hanging baskets, spreading as a silvery ground cover, or weaving through mixed borders, this adaptable plant delivers consistent performance with minimal care requirements.

This comprehensive guide explores every aspect of growing Liquorice Plant successfully in Australian conditions, from understanding its growth requirements and planting techniques to creative design applications and seasonal care schedules. We’ll examine the best companion plants for striking combinations, address common growing challenges, and share expert tips that ensure your Helichrysum petiolare thrives year after year, bringing elegant silver tones and textural interest to your outdoor spaces.

What Makes Liquorice Plant Perfect for Australian Gardens

Origin and Natural Habitat

Helichrysum petiolare originates from the coastal regions of South Africa’s Eastern and Western Cape provinces, where it grows naturally on sandy slopes, rocky outcrops, and coastal scrubland. In its native habitat, the plant experiences Mediterranean-like conditions with wet winters and dry summers, enduring salt-laden winds and sandy, nutrient-poor soils. These challenging conditions have shaped the Liquorice Plant into an incredibly resilient species that translates perfectly to Australian coastal gardens from Perth to Brisbane, as well as inland gardens with similar Mediterranean climates².

Key Ornamental Features

The Liquorice Plant’s primary appeal lies in its distinctive silvery-grey foliage covered in fine, woolly hairs that give the leaves a soft, felted texture. Each heart-shaped to rounded leaf measures 2-3cm across, densely clothing the trailing stems that can extend up to 2 metres. The plant produces small, button-like cream or pale yellow flowers in summer, though these are generally considered insignificant compared to the foliage display. The common name derives from the curry-like scent released when leaves are crushed, though some describe it as more liquorice-like, hence the various common names.

Growth Habit and Mature Size

Helichrysum petiolare develops as a spreading, semi-trailing subshrub that typically reaches 30-60cm in height while spreading 1-2 metres wide. Its growth rate is remarkably fast in suitable conditions, often achieving full spread within a single growing season. The plant’s flexible stems trail gracefully over edges, making it ideal for hanging baskets and retaining walls, or spread horizontally as an effective ground cover. In frost-free areas, it maintains its evergreen nature year-round, while in cooler climates it may die back to the roots in winter before resprouting in spring.

Essential Growing Requirements for Liquorice Plant

Light Requirements for Optimal Growth

Liquorice Plant performs best in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to maintain its compact growth and intense silver colouration. While it tolerates partial shade, plants grown in shadier conditions tend to become leggy with less pronounced silver tones and increased green in the foliage. In Australia’s intense summer sun, particularly in inland areas of Queensland and Western Australia, the plant appreciates light afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch. Coastal gardens from Sydney to Adelaide provide ideal light conditions with bright sun tempered by ocean breezes³.

Temperature and Climate Considerations

This versatile plant tolerates temperatures from 5°C to 35°C, thriving in temperatures between 15-25°C. While technically frost-tender, established plants can survive brief light frosts down to -2°C, though foliage may be damaged. In frost-prone areas of Melbourne, Canberra and Tasmania, grow Liquorice Plant as an annual or in containers that can be moved to protected positions during winter. The plant shows excellent heat tolerance once established, making it suitable for hot, dry summers in Perth and Adelaide.

Complete Soil Preparation and Planting Guide

Ideal Soil Conditions

Liquorice Plant thrives in well-draining soil and actually performs better in average to poor soils rather than rich, fertile conditions. Sandy or sandy-loam soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 are ideal. The plant is notably tolerant of salt spray and sandy coastal soils, making it perfect for seaside gardens. For heavy clay soils common in parts of Melbourne and Adelaide, improve drainage by incorporating gypsum and coarse sand. Avoid overly rich soils which can lead to excessive growth and reduced silver colouration⁴.

Container Growing Requirements

Helichrysum petiolare excels in containers and hanging baskets where its trailing habit can be fully appreciated. Choose containers with excellent drainage and use a well-draining potting mix – add extra perlite or coarse sand to standard mixes for improved drainage. See our container gardening essentials guide for optimal potting mix recipes. The trailing stems can cascade 60-90cm over pot edges, creating stunning displays.

Planting Technique and Timing

The best planting time varies by region: spring (September-November) in cooler areas, autumn (March-May) in hot inland regions, and year-round in frost-free coastal areas. When planting, space plants 60-100cm apart for ground cover use, closer for faster coverage. Dig holes twice the width of the root ball, backfill with amended soil, and water thoroughly. In hanging baskets, position plants near edges to maximise the trailing effect.

Watch: Professional Planting Technique

Watering and Feeding Liquorice Plant for Optimal Performance

Water Requirements Through the Seasons

Liquorice Plant demonstrates excellent drought tolerance once established, typically after 8-12 weeks. During establishment, maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging. Once established, the plant thrives on minimal water, making it ideal for water-wise Australian gardens. In Perth and Adelaide’s dry summers, deep watering fortnightly is usually sufficient. Sydney and Brisbane gardens may require less frequent watering due to higher humidity and rainfall. Over-watering causes root rot and reduces the attractive silver colouration⁵.

Fertiliser Program for Healthy Growth

Liquorice Plant requires minimal fertilising and actually performs better in lean soils. Over-fertilising promotes excessive green growth at the expense of the desirable silver foliage. Apply a light dose of slow-release fertiliser in early spring. For container plants, use half-strength liquid fertiliser monthly during the growing season. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers which encourage lush growth and reduce drought tolerance⁶.

Seasonal Maintenance and Pruning Guide

Pruning for Shape and Vigour

Regular pruning keeps Liquorice Plant compact and encourages fresh silver growth. The best time for major pruning is early spring (September) before new growth begins. Cut back by one-third to one-half to rejuvenate older plants. Throughout the growing season, pinch tips regularly to promote bushiness and prevent legginess. In hanging baskets, trim trailing stems when they become too long or sparse. Remove any damaged or brown foliage promptly to maintain appearance⁷.

Ongoing Care and Maintenance

Apply a 5cm layer of gravel mulch or decomposed granite around plants to improve drainage and suppress weeds while complementing the silver foliage. In containers, refresh the top layer of potting mix annually. Watch for signs of overwatering such as yellowing leaves or soft stems. In coastal gardens, occasional hosing removes salt buildup on foliage. Plants may need replacing every 3-4 years as they can become woody and less attractive with age.

Troubleshooting Common Liquorice Plant Problems

Why Is My Liquorice Plant Turning Green?

Loss of silver colouration typically indicates insufficient light, over-fertilising, or excessive watering. Move plants to a sunnier position – they need at least 6 hours of direct sun for optimal silver tones. Reduce or eliminate fertiliser applications and allow soil to dry between waterings. In shade, plants produce more chlorophyll, losing their distinctive silver appearance. Rich soils and high nitrogen also promote green growth over silver foliage.

Pest Management

Liquorice Plant is remarkably pest-resistant, with its aromatic foliage deterring many common garden pests. Occasionally, aphids may attack new growth in spring – see our aphid control guide for management strategies. Spider mites can occur during hot, dry weather – monitor for fine webbing and treat if necessary using methods in our spider mite control guide. Generally, healthy plants resist pest attacks naturally⁸.

Disease Prevention and Treatment

Root rot is the primary disease concern, caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure excellent drainage and allow soil to dry between waterings. In humid conditions, botrytis (grey mould) may affect dense growth – improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Powdery mildew occasionally appears in autumn – remove affected foliage and ensure adequate spacing. Most disease issues are prevented through proper cultural practices rather than chemical treatments.

Fascinating Facts & Additional Uses for Liquorice Plant

Historical and Cultural Significance

The genus name Helichrysum derives from the Greek words ‘helios’ (sun) and ‘chrysos’ (gold), referring to the golden flowers of many species. While this species has less showy flowers, it belongs to the everlasting daisy family, valued for dried flower arrangements. The plant was introduced to European gardens in the 18th century and reached Australia in the early 1900s, quickly becoming popular in coastal gardens. Despite its common name, the plant has no relation to culinary liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)⁹.

Wildlife and Ecological Benefits

While not a major nectar source, Liquorice Plant provides habitat for beneficial insects and small spiders that help control garden pests. Its dense, trailing growth offers shelter for ground-dwelling beneficial insects. The aromatic foliage naturally repels many pest insects, making it valuable in organic gardening systems. In coastal areas, it helps stabilise sandy soils and tolerates salt spray, making it useful for erosion control.

Lesser-Known Uses and Benefits

The silvery foliage makes excellent filler material in fresh flower arrangements, lasting 7-10 days in water. Dried stems retain their silver colour indefinitely, making them valuable for dried arrangements and wreaths. Some gardeners use the aromatic leaves in potpourri. The plant’s drought tolerance and spreading habit make it useful for covering unsightly areas or as a living mulch under taller plants.

Creative Garden Design Ideas with Liquorice Plant

Landscape Applications

Liquorice Plant excels in numerous landscape roles due to its trailing habit and silver foliage. Use it as a silver carpet beneath roses or tall perennials where it provides stunning contrast. In rock gardens, let it cascade over boulders and walls. For modern designs, create geometric patterns using its spreading growth. The plant works brilliantly spilling from raised beds, retaining walls, and terraced gardens. In coastal gardens, use it for erosion control on slopes while adding year-round colour¹⁰.

Garden Styles That Feature Liquorice Plant

• Mediterranean Gardens: Perfect with lavenders, rosemary, and other silver-foliaged plants
• Coastal Gardens: Excellent salt tolerance makes it ideal for seaside plantings
• Modern/Minimalist: Silver foliage provides sophisticated contrast against architectural plants
• Cottage Gardens: Softens edges and provides foliage contrast with flowering perennials
• Xeriscape Gardens: Essential for water-wise designs requiring minimal irrigation

Container and Hanging Basket Design

In containers and hanging baskets, Liquorice Plant serves as an exceptional ‘spiller’ element, cascading dramatically over edges. Combine with upright ‘thriller’ plants like Duranta Geisha Girl and ‘filler’ plants like petunias for classic container combinations. The silver foliage provides neutral contrast that complements any colour scheme. In window boxes, alternate with flowering annuals for continuous interest. For modern containers, use it solo for minimalist silver cascades.

Perfect Companion Plants for Liquorice Plant

Aesthetic Companions

Creating stunning combinations with Liquorice Plant is easy due to its neutral silver tones that complement virtually any colour¹¹.

• Gazania varieties: Bright flowers contrast beautifully with silver foliage – try Yellow or Pink Gazania
• African Daisies: Vibrant blooms pop against silver backdrop – available here
• Blue Plumbago: Sky blue flowers create classic blue-silver combination – Royal Cape variety
• Alternanthera: Purple foliage intensifies silver tones – try FireBug
• Westringia: Native option with similar drought tolerance – Coastal Rosemary

Functional Companions

Select companion plants that share similar growing requirements while providing mutual benefits. Other drought-tolerant silver plants like Wormwood create harmonious silver gardens. Gazania Silver Leaf offers similar foliage with bright flowers. For textural contrast, combine with succulents that share low water requirements.

Liquorice Plant Varieties and Alternatives

Helichrysum petiolare Cultivars

Alternative Silver-Foliaged Plants

For gardeners seeking similar effects with different plants, consider Cotton Lavender (Santolina) for a more upright silver accent. Senecio macroglossus offers trailing growth with succulent-like leaves. For native alternatives, explore the native plant collection for silver-foliaged Australian species.

Year-Round Care Calendar for Liquorice Plant

Frequently Asked Questions About Liquorice Plant

Related Gardening Guides You Might Find Helpful

Final Thoughts on Growing Liquorice Plant

Growing Liquorice Plant (Helichrysum petiolare) successfully in Australian gardens rewards you with year-round silver foliage that enhances any garden design while requiring minimal maintenance once established. From the Mediterranean climates of Perth and Adelaide to the subtropical conditions of Brisbane and the temperate zones of Sydney, this adaptable plant thrives when provided with the well-draining soil and sunny conditions outlined in this comprehensive guide¹⁴.

The key to success with Liquorice Plant lies in understanding its preference for lean, well-draining soils and resistance to overwatering and over-fertilising. Whether you’re using it as a dramatic cascade from hanging baskets, silver ground cover in dry gardens, or textural contrast in mixed borders, remember that less is more when it comes to care. Regular pruning maintains compact growth and fresh silver foliage, while proper drainage prevents the root rot that is this plant’s primary weakness.

As climate change brings hotter, drier conditions to many parts of Australia, drought-tolerant plants like Helichrysum petiolare become increasingly valuable in sustainable garden design. Its ability to thrive with minimal water once established, combined with its pest resistance and year-round appeal, makes it an excellent choice for both experienced gardeners and beginners seeking low-maintenance beauty.

For premium Liquorice Plant specimens and expert advice on creating stunning silver-themed gardens, visit Garden Variety online where our knowledgeable team can help you select the perfect plants for your specific conditions. Text Danika on 0488 062 502 for personalised guidance on incorporating Liquorice Plant into your garden design or troubleshooting any growing challenges.

References

1. Manning, J. & Goldblatt, P. (2023). Plants of the Greater Cape Floristic Region. South African National Biodiversity Institute.
2. Royal Botanic Gardens Kew (2023). Plants of the World Online – Helichrysum petiolare. Kew Science.
3. Elliot, R. & Jones, D. (2022). Encyclopedia of Australian Plants Volume 5. Lothian Books, Melbourne.
4. Handreck, K. & Black, N. (2023). Growing Media for Ornamental Plants and Turf. UNSW Press.
5. Water Corporation WA (2023). Waterwise Plants for Western Australian Gardens. Perth.
6. Yates Garden Guide (2023). Silver and Grey Foliage Plants. Harper Collins Australia.
7. Australian Plant Study Group (2023). Pruning Guidelines for Ornamental Plants. NSW.
8. Department of Primary Industries (2023). Integrated Pest Management for Ornamentals. NSW DPI.
9. Van Wyk, B. & Gericke, N. (2022). People’s Plants: A Guide to Useful Plants of Southern Africa. Briza Publications.
10. Wrigley, J. & Fagg, M. (2023). Australian Native Plants for Gardens. Reed New Holland.
11. Lord, T. (2023). RHS Plant Combinations. Mitchell Beazley, London.
12. ASPCA (2023). Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants Database. American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
13. Fertilizer Australia (2023). Nutrient Management for Ornamental Plants. Melbourne.
14. Spencer, R. & Cross, R. (2023). Horticultural Flora of South-Eastern Australia. UNSW Press.