Description
Common names
Golden Everlasting, Golden Everlasting Daisy.
Scientific names
Xerochrysum bracteatum, Bracteantha bracteata, Helichrysum bracteatum.
Family
Asteraceae.
Genus
Xerochrysum.
Growth height
0.2-0.8m.
Presence in Australia
Widespread through most areas in region.
This specie has been identified in the following Australian states: Qld, NSW, ACT, Vic, Tas, SA, NT, WA.
Habitat
Open woodland or forest, usually on sandy to sandy loam soils.
Habit
Erect, usually annual herb, 20-80cm high. Rarely branched at base.
Site preference
Grows mainly during autumn and spring, and also summer if favourable conditions.
Characteristics
Frost hardy. Palatable to stock and damaged by grazing.
Flowering
Yellow flowers, mostly Sep-Nov.
Seed collection
Dec-Jan. Monitor closely as mature seeds dispersed by wind.
Propagation
From seed sown late-summer. Germinates in 7-30 days and grows rapidly. Strikes within 3 weeks from tip cuttings 7-10cm long, under mist.
Wildlife
Good habitat. Flowers provide nectar for native butterflies and moths.
Ornamental
Spectacular. Mass plant for best effect, and prune or replace each year to prevent legginess. Cut flowers for long-lasting.
Other
Distinguish Golden Everlasting from Sticky Everlasting by its fewer stems and grey-green or light-green leaves. Golden Everlasting generally more bushy, has varnished-looking stems and dark-green leaves.