Botanical name
Actinotus helianthi
Common name
Flannel Flower
Flannel Flower description
An iconic Australian native plant that grows to around 50cm in height and width, the Flannel Flower receives its name due to the fine hairs that cover the whole plant, giving it a flannel-like, furry texture.
Lovely white daisy-type flowers sit above the deeply lobed, silvery foliage during Spring and Summer. The blooms range from 3-8cm in width, making them an excellent cut flower.
Flannel flowers look right at home when teamed with other cottage-style native plants such as native daisies and Philothecas.
Climate
Coastal areas in temperate climates
Flannel Flower Cultivation & care
This short-lived perennial can be challenging to cultivate and are often grown in pots. They prefer poor, sandy soil with excellent drainage. Yes, you can kill these beauties with kindness! They will not tolerate soggy roots.
Select a full sun position and once established, do not disturb the roots. Grouping these plants with others helps to protect from strong winds and heavier frosts and allows the shallow root system to remain undamaged. If planting in pots, use a potting mix specifically designed for native plants. Fertilise when flowering using a native plant fertiliser.
Propagate in Autumn using softwood cuttings or in Spring if using seed. Seed germination is tricky. Smoke treatment gives more success.
Plant use
Pots, rockeries, cottage gardens, native gardens
Pruning
Flannel Flower starts to look a bit straggly after flowering so lightly prune them then to promote bushy growth. Remove any dead flowerheads regularly to prolong the flowering period.
Pests & diseases
Susceptible to Grey Mould and Fusarium Wilt so try to avoid watering the foliage.
