Curry plant

Short description of the species

Botanical name

Curry plant

Latin name

Helichrysum italicum

Family

Asteraceae

Origin

The Mediterranean

Crop classification

spicy and aromatic plants

Exposue

full sun

Frost resistance

Frost-resistant (up to approx. – 10°C)/ perrenial

Optimal growth temperature

20 – 25°C

Water requirements

low

Soil requirements

Light, stony, sandy

Soil pH

6,5 – 7,5

Edible part

Helichrysi italici flos, Helichrysi italici herba, Helichrysi italici oleum, Helichrysi italici oleum

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Interesting

in the food industry it is used mainly for its distinct aromatic smell and taste, which are reminiscent of curry spices

accessibility

Usage

leaves and flowers are added to meat, fish and vegetable dishes, rice or soups, where they add a mild, spicy taste reminiscent of curry and sage

Inclusion in the sowing process and fertilization requirements 

It is an evergreen plant, during the mild winter it usually retains its above-ground part. If the plant is not sufficiently protected in areas with colder and longer frosts, the aerial part may die. In that case, the plant should be protected from frost by mulching or covering. If the plant is properly protected from severe frosts, it will start growing again in the spring. 

Track: II. 

Suitable pre-crops: cereals, legumes, roots Fertilization: does not require intensive fertilization 

Agrotechnics of cultivation - can be propagated by seeds or cuttings 

Agrotechnics of growing - from transplants (sowing seeds in covered areas)

Harvest - during the flowering period, which is usually in the summer months, from June to August, when the flowers are in full bloom, Helichrysum italicum (EO) essential oils are produced from the glandular hairs present on the leaves and flower heads by hydrodistillation and steam distillation 

Use: leaves and flowers are added to meat, fish and vegetable dishes, rice or soups, where they add a mild, spicy taste reminiscent of curry and sage 

Valuable ingredients: flavonoids, α-pyrones, phenolic acids, acetophenones, monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes and triterpenes 

Phytotherapeutic groups: antiphlogistic, antibiotic, antioxidant 

Diseases and pests: a relatively resistant plant to pests, but it can occasionally be attacked by aphids, whiteflies and cicadas. Common diseases include powdery mildew and root rot.