Chrysocephalum apiculatum ‘Desert Flame’

This low growing perennial is native to Australia and is listed as one of Australia’s “Aussie Winners” for its excellent performance in Mediterranean climate gardens. Chrysocephalum apiculatum ‘Desert Flame’ has a decumbent growth pattern which means that the stems lie flat along the ground with a spread of 20-30 inches, and the tips, which bear flowers, turning upwards to a height of 6 inches.

This plant is an excellent choice for many areas of a garden that are in full sun. It’s silver-grey foliage and golden-yellow button head flowers create a stunning border if mass planted. If planted along the edge of a retaining wall, its blooms will spill over the edge, creating an eye-catching blaze of color. This is also a good addition to container gardens that are planted in a courtyard or poolside.

Because Chrysocephalum apiculatum ‘Desert Flame’ is drought tolerant (once established), blooms almost year-round, and requires minimal maintenance, this is a good choice for an area of your yard that has been neglected and needs to be brought back to life. It is tolerant of light frost and cold hardy to 25-30°F.

Additional benefits of this plant are that it attracts bees, butterflies and other beneficial pollinators, and the dainty blooms can be cut and dried to be used in floral arrangements. We are growing ‘Desert Flame’ in one gallon containers. Give us a call to learn more about this or any other water wise plants that we are growing. Also, follow us on Instagram @clearwatercolornursery to see what’s happening around the nursery throughout the week.