One of the standouts of the genus, Ptilotus manglesii with its rose tipped flowers is making its mark in nurseries.
Found from Geraldton through to Albany in Western Australia, this is a brilliantly coloured variety, and it will flower from summer into autumn.
Its natural habitat is in gravelly soils in woodland areas, so good drainage is essential to grow it successfully in the garden.
The brilliant flowers make this s useful plant for the native garden or indeed a cottage garden that receives good sun. It is suited for mass planting or for use as an edging plant.
Care
Similar to other Ptilotus species, drainage and good sun are the key to growing these native plants. In eastern states it is rain and moisture through the winter in poorly drained soils that cause most problems.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Ptilotus manglesii (syn. Trichinium manglesii )
- Common Name – Rose Tipped Mulla Mulla, Pom Poms.
- Family – Amaranthaceae
- Plant Height – To around 0.3 metres
- Plant Spread – To around 0.3 metres
- Position – Full sun to a little shade.
- Soil – Well drained with some moisture.
- Flowers – White with pink to purple tips.
- Flowering Time – Summer to Autumn
- Foliage – Mid green
- Drought tolerant – Yes once established