Chrysocephalum apiculatum
Chrysocephalum apiculatum · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant chrysocephalum apiculatum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Australian buttercup, Golden everlasting
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Plant type
- Herbaceous perennial
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (September to February in southern hemisphere)
- Mature size
- 30 to 60 cm height, 40 to 50 cm spread
- Foliage
- Evergreen, grey-green, fine and downy
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Hardiness
- Low hardiness, tender (mild climate or protection required)
- Origin
- Australia (New South Wales)
Care
Exposure and climate
Place Chrysocephalum apiculatum in full sun, with at least 6 hours daily. This Australian plant loves heat and tolerates well-lit spaces sheltered from cold wind. In very cold regions, grow it in a pot to bring indoors in winter or in a greenhouse.
Soil preparation
Use very well-drained, light and rather poor substrate: a mix of horticultural soil, sand and coarse elements works perfectly. Avoid heavy, wet soils that promote root rot. Neutral to slightly acidic pH is ideal.
Watering
Water moderately and let the substrate dry between waterings. During active growth periods, maintain light moisture without excess. Reduce considerably in winter or dormancy. Excess water is the main enemy of this plant.
Nutrition and fertiliser
Apply very diluted fertiliser once or twice a month during flowering and growth. Prefer a low-nitrogen feed to avoid lush foliage at the expense of flowers. A plant in poor soil often flowers better.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch back young stems regularly to encourage a compact shape and better branching. After flowering, remove spent flowers to extend blooming and maintain balanced growth. Light spring pruning helps rejuvenate the plant.
Pests and diseases
Watch for root rot and fungal infections linked to excess water. In overly humid conditions, leaf spots may appear. Ensure good air circulation, avoid wetting the foliage when watering and maintain free air movement to limit fungal problems.
Did you know?
Chrysocephalum apiculatum is highly prized by florists for its small, golden rounded flowers that retain their lustre for a long time, even when dried. In Australia, it's an emblematic species in native gardens, favoured by pollinators. Its name 'apiculatum' refers to its resemblance to a little bee's head.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- SunflowerHelianthus annuus
- YarrowAchillea millefolium
- Ox-eye daisyLeucanthemum vulgare
- SneezewortAchillea ptarmica
- Canadian goldenrodSolidago canadensis
- WormwoodArtemisia absinthium
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.