Paper Daisy

Rhodanthe chlorocephala ssp rosea

Today I planted some seeds of this annual pink paper daisy which is native to south Western Australia and into South Australia. The seeds are interesting as they are covered with a soft white 'fur' and is quite soft to touch. They are large enough to handle individually and are best planted in groups of three. The plant grows to about 30cm and the stems are fairly weak and are coloured pale grey green. I grow them in pots as they need a sandy free draining soil which is not always easy to provide.

Xerochrysum bracteatum, Golden Everlasting

This is the common golden paper daisy which is a short lived perennial and fairly easy to grow .This wild form starts to flower now and goes right through to the warmer months. I often catch a glimpse of it beside the road when driving to Sydney. It is a cheery colour to brighten cold winter days.There are lots of showy large flowered varieties of this plant in a whole range of colours including white ,red and pink. They are fast growing and provide great colour in pots and garden beds without much attention.