The genus Helichrysum consists of an estimated 600 species, in the sunflower family, Asteraceae. It occurs in Africa (with 244 species in South Africa), Madagascar, Australasia and Eurasia. The plants may be annuals, herbaceous perennials or shrubs, growing to a height of 60 to 90 cm. The genus was a wastebasket taxon, and many of its members have been reclassified in smaller genera, most notably the Everlastings, now in the genus Xerochrysum.

Helichrysum pandurifolium, commonly known as Fiddle Everlasting or Fiddle-leaved Strawflower in English and Kooigoed in Afrikaans and synonymously known as Helichrysum auriculatum, is a woolly grey shrub with small clusters of gorgeous, yellow flowers surrounded by creamy white, papery bracts. It is a South African endemic aromatic plant that is found in fynbos on the sandy and rocky mountain slopes of the Western Cape and Eastern Cape Provinces. Fiddle everlasting is an evergreen perennial shrub growing up to 1 m tall. This species possesses a very strong aromatic odour. It flowers from spring to midsummer (between September and January), but mainly in spring and early summer (from October to December). Infusions of fiddle everlasting are used to treat respiratory conditions, cough, backpain, heart trouble, kidney stones and kidney related ailments. This plant is said to be used as a demulcent since it relieves inflammation and irritation. Historically, it has also been used a herbal tea.