Helichrysum milfordiae in the grass

Helichrysum milfordiae, the alpine everlasting, is a resident of rocky regions in high-altitude Drakensberg grassland. The white inner surfaces of the involucral bracts are revealed as they spread. The outsides start off bright pink and purplish at the tips. Later they fade to brown, often becoming quite pale, but are no longer easy to see when widely spread, facing up and near the ground. Grasses of the Drakensberg may push a few blades through the gaps among the everlasting rosettes as in the photo.

In cultivation this plant is hardy down to temperatures slightly below freezing. Not surprising as its natural habitat receives winter snow. Good drainage and alkaline to neutral soils are needed for H. milfordiae to cope. Its looks have motivated some people to take on the challenge. One has to meet the minimum standards though (Manning, 2009; iNaturalist; Wikipedia; www.keys.lucidcentral.org).