Colours and shapes
While the Helichrysum is a great choice for drying, it's just as beautiful when fresh, with its yellow, white, pink, orange and red petals. The leaves of the flower are oblong and light green. If you want to dry this flower to preserve it, wait until all the flowers are open and then hang them upside down in a dry place.
Symbolism
The symbolic meaning of the Helichrysum is a strong one, with the flower being a symbol for immortality - appropriate when you can extend the life of this bloom so much by drying it!
Origin
The straw flower was once found only in Australia, but its hardiness means it can now be found all over the world. It's related to the aster, with both plants resembling each other strongly.