Star power
2025-08-13T10:41:07+10:00
With their velvety leaves and signature star-shaped blooms, flannel flowers add a touch of magic to the landscape. In the September issue, Angus Stewart profiles this native treasure and has some great suggestions for how to use it.
Delicate and beautiful, flannel flowers (Actinotus helianthi) are a special sight to behold in the wild – and in the home garden. Thriving in temperate climates with low humidity, their silvery tones and star-shaped blooms make them a striking design feature.
Flannel flowers stand out in rockeries and wildflower meadow-style gardens, as well as pots, where they can be admired up close. They pair beautifully with other dry-tolerant natives such as everlasting daisies (Xerochrysum spp.) and ornamental grasses like Poa species. Combine them with compact grevilleas, scaevolas and dampieras for a layered, textural all-native planting. Grow in groups of three or more for impact.
How to grow flannel flowers
Flannel flowers grow as compact-to-open, short-lived perennials, typically reaching 30-60cm high and 30-50cm wide. They prefer full sun to light shade and need excellent drainage – sandy or rocky soils are ideal. Once established, they are drought-tolerant but appreciate occasional deep watering during dry periods. Avoid overwatering, especially in humid conditions.
Prune lightly after flowering and apply a low-phosphorus native fertiliser at the same time. They dislike root disturbance, so plant them in their final position, or use deep pots if growing in containers.
Learn more about caring for this iconic native in the September issue of ABC Gardening Australia magazine – on sale now!
Image by iStock
