Chrsyocephalum apiculatum is often referred to as ‘Yellow Buttons’ or ‘common everlasting’.
This is a tough plant from all Australian States and growth habit especially height will vary depending on conditions.
As with many plants that grow over a wide areas, a number of different forms are available, the main difference seeming to be in height.
Silvery grey green foliage buttery yellow flowers that are tightly held on tallish stems.
Chrsyocephalum grow over a large part of Australia however in all areas good drainage would seem to be important.
Chrsyocephalum apiculatum (formerly known as Helichrysum) can grow to about .5m in shaded positions, in full sun it is much lower growing. It has a low water requirement and seems to tolerate frost.
A fast growing plant that will spread to around 1m, the long lasting flowers make it a welcome addition to the garden border. It does grow well in near coastal conditions and is very low care.
Chrsyocephalum apiculatum Care
Excellent in a low water garden or for use in mass planting as an Australian native ground cover plant. It fits is well into cottage garden styles with other drought tolerant perennial plants.
- Well drained soil.
- Best in Full sun, although will grow in part shade.
Pruning is generally not required although some gardeners do like to cut back spent flower heads to give the plant a tidy up.
Fertiliser is generally not required and if you must, use a specialist native plant fertiliser which will be low phosphate.
Propagation
You can propagate Yellow Buttons from seed, or from cuttings taken in spring.
Seeds require warm temperature to germinate. Sow them directly to the garden or start them off in containers. Germination should occur in around 2 – 3 weeks
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Chrysocephalum apiculatum, syn. Gnaphalium apiculatum, Helichrysum apiculatum
- Common names – Yellow Buttons, Common Everlasting
- Family – Asteraceae
- Origins – Found throughout Australia, large concentrations in NSW, VIC, SA and Eastern Tasmania.
- Soil – Well drained
- Position – Full sun.
- Height – Varies from low growing to around 7cm, to tall around 50cm depending on the location as well as seed origin.
- Flowers – Yellow button like flowers in spring.
- Drought tolerant – Yes
- Frost tolerant – medium.
Other Chrsyocephalum Species
- Chrsyocephalum ramosissimum is a low growing form.